Picking wallpaper that’s safe and meets building codes is key for any home or business. Fire-rated wallpaper slows down flames and cuts smoke, keeping spaces safer. This guide explains fire ratings, compares peel-and-stick, Type I, and Type II wallpapers, and shares tips to help homeowners, DIYers, designers, and architects choose the right product.
Why Fire-Rated Wallpaper Matters
Fire-rated wallpaper helps stop fires from spreading fast, giving people more time to get out safely. It’s a must for businesses like offices or hotels, where building codes demand it, and it’s smart for homes too. Codes from groups like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) ensure safety in public spaces. Dreamscape’s Type II wallpapers meet these rules, keeping your project safe and stylish.
What Are Fire Safety Ratings?
Fire safety is tested with the Steiner Tunnel Test (ASTM E84), where wallpaper is placed in a 25-foot tunnel and exposed to flames. Testers check how fast fire spreads and how much smoke it makes. Two numbers matter:
- Flame Spread Index (FSI): How quickly fire moves across the surface, rated 0 (no spread, like cement) to 200 (fast spread, like wood). Low (safe): 0-25 (Class A). High (risky): 76-200. Dreamscape’s Type II hits 0-25.
- Smoke Developed Index (SDI): How much smoke is produced, rated 0 (barely any) to 450+ (lots). Low (safe): 0-450 (Class A). High (risky): Above 450. Dreamscape’s Type II stays under 450.
Class A (FSI ≤ 25, SDI ≤ 450) is the safest rating, required by most codes. Dreamscape’s Type II wallpapers always achieve Class A, per Fine Print NYC’s tests. Another test, CAN/ULC-S102, is used in Canada, and Dreamscape’s 20 oz vinyl passes it with similar low scores.
Note: Dreamscape’s peel-and-stick wallpapers aren’t proven to hit Class A in US tests like ASTM E84. They pass other tests (e.g., Australia’s AS/NZS 3837:1998), but you’ll need to check with Dreamscape for specific fire safety details.
Peel-and-Stick vs. Type I vs. Type II: What’s the Difference?
Peel-and-stick, Type I, and Type II describe different wallpaper options for various projects. Peel-and-stick refers to easy, sticky-back installation, while Type I and Type II are durability grades for commercial vinyl wallpapers, set by industry standards (CCC-W-408D). Dreamscape offers all three, letting you choose based on style, safety, and durability. Here’s the breakdown.
Peel-and-Stick Wallcoverings
Peel-and-stick wallpapers, like Dreamscape’s wall wraps, have adhesive already on the back. Peel off the liner, stick it to the wall, and you’re done. They’re a hit for DIYers, renters, or temporary setups because they’re simple to apply and remove without wall damage. However, they’re less tough than commercial wallpapers and may not meet strict fire safety or durability rules for busy, code-regulated spaces. - Pros: Easy DIY install, removable without damage, great for temporary decor. - Cons: Not Class A fire-rated in US tests (ASTM E84); less durable; needs verification for codes.
Type I and Type II Wallcoverings
Type I and Type II are labels for vinyl wallpapers based on weight and toughness, set by US standards to guide architects and designers. Dreamscape offers some patterns in both types, so you can pick the right strength for your space.
- Type I: Lighter (13-19 oz per yard), made for low-traffic areas like hotel rooms or small offices. They need glue or paste to install and are less rugged than Type II. Some, like Dreamscape’s Nolar Smooth, may hit Class A fire ratings (ASTM E84), but it’s not guaranteed.
- Pros: Affordable, suits quiet spaces, some Class A options.
- Cons: Less durable, needs pro installation, limited fire rating proof.
- Type II: Heavier (20 oz or more per yard), built for busy spots like lobbies, hallways, or hospitals. They’re tough, scrub-resistant, and meet strict fire safety rules. Dreamscape’s 20 oz vinyl is Class A fire-rated (ASTM E84), per Fine Print NYC’s tests for 20 oz NW/OSNA. They need adhesive and pro installation.
- Pros: Super durable, Class A fire-rated, ideal for heavy use.
- Cons: Higher cost, requires professional installation.
Why “Type I” and “Type II”?
The Wallcoverings Association created these labels to standardize wallpaper choices for commercial spaces. Since the mid-20th century, they’ve helped ensure wallpapers meet safety and durability needs, cutting risks and maintenance costs for buildings.
Key Takeaways
- Type I and Type II are about durability, not looks. The same Dreamscape pattern might come in both, differing only in strength.
- Peel-and-stick is about easy installation, not toughness. It’s rarely Type I or II, best for homes or short-term use.
- Dreamscape’s Type II is the go-to for Class A fire safety and busy spaces, while peel-and-stick needs fire rating checks.
This system helps designers and building managers make informed choices, balancing aesthetics, budget, and performance for every project.
Other Safety Checks for Dreamscape Wallpapers
Dreamscape’s Type II wallpapers pass more than fire tests, ensuring they’re safe and tough:
- Air Quality: They meet California’s low-VOC rules (CDPH/EHLB V1.2-2017), safe for schools or homes. Fine Print NYC’s certifications back this up.
- Moisture Resistance: Type II vinyl scores 8-15 in the ASTM E96 test, letting walls breathe to avoid mold, perfect for humid spots.
- Durability: They pass scrub and tear tests (WA-101), staying strong in busy areas. Fine Print NYC’s tear test (ASTM F793) proves this.
- Toxins: Low heavy metals and formaldehyde (EN12149), making them safe for everyone.
Peel-and-Stick: These tests mostly apply to Type II. Peel-and-stick might have similar perks (e.g., low-VOC), but you’ll need Dreamscape’s specific test reports to confirm.
How to Pick the Right Fire-Rated Wallpaper
Here’s a quick guide to choose a safe Dreamscape wallpaper:
- Know Your Codes: Check local rules (e.g., NFPA 101) with your contractor. Businesses usually need Class A and Type II.
- Think About Use: Type II for busy spots (e.g., hallways); Type I or peel-and-stick for quiet or temporary areas.
- Check Fire Ratings: Go with Type II for Class A certainty. For peel-and-stick or Type I, ask Dreamscape for test proof.
- Plan Installation: Peel-and-stick is easy for DIY; Type I/II need pros for safety and durability.
- Try Samples: Use Fine Print NYC’s 3-5 day proofing to test textures and colors.
Why Choose Fine Print NYC’s Dreamscape Wallcoverings?
Fine Print NYC’s Dreamscape Type II wallpapers are Class A fire-safe, tested for ASTM E84 and CAN/ULC-S102, meeting tough codes. With heavy-duty durability, safe air quality, and 20,000+ colors, they’re perfect for any project. Peel-and-stick works for quick jobs, but check fire ratings for codes.
Ready for a safe, stylish upgrade? Explore our Dreamscape collection, request a sample, or get a quote. Call Fine Print NYC at (212) 619-5446 or visit our wallpaper page today.
See our certification reports for fire and safety details.
Our Full List of Wallpaper Materials, Sorted by Type
About the Author
Joseph Gornail is a multimedia artist and fourth-generation print craftsman whose family has lived on the same block in SoHo for over 90 years. With an extensive background in photography, writing and creative direction, Joseph has a love of the arts and a proud New Yorker. When he’s not documenting city life or curating historic images for History101.nyc, he can likely be found sailing the New York harbor to enjoy his native city from a different perspective.