## [Thermal Barrier Testing and Certification](/services/thermal-barrier-testing-and-certification) Service # Thermal Barrier Testing and Certification Verify the integrity of your thermal barrier for use with foam insulation or metal composite materials. We can help you test to NFPA 275 and to help satisfy the requirements of the 2018 International Building Code, Chapter 26. [ Contact us ](#form) ![Foam construction](https://delivery-p133222-e1298791.adobeaemcloud.com/adobe/assets/urn:aaid:aem:39338663-6998-40cf-a15f-9e5d0aeabc2f/as/39338663-6998-40cf-a15f-9e5d0aeabc2f.webp?&smartcrop=Landscape&max-quality=90&width=400) *play\_arrow* *pause* ## Breadcrumb - [ *keyboard\_arrow\_left* Services ](/services) - [ Home ](/) *pen\_size\_1* - [ Services ](/services) *pen\_size\_1* - Thermal Barrier Testing and Certification Close *cancel* ### Get connected with our team Thanks for your interest in our products and services. Let's collect some information so we can connect you with the right person. \* By ticking this box, I confirm that I have read and understood the [Online Policy](https://www.ul.com/resources/online-policies) and consent to the processing of my personal data as described therein. \* By ticking this box, I consent to the cross-border transfer of my personal data as described in the [Online Policy](https://www.ul.com/resources/online-policies). I agree to receive UL Solutions marketing communications and understand that I can opt out at any time without affecting other services by visiting our [Preference Center](https://www.ul.com/preference-center). ##### Thank you! One of our team members will respond to your request as soon as possible. Close ## Thermal barrier testing and certification UL Solutions tests and certifies thermal barrier materials used with foam plastic insulation or metal composite materials to help verify that the barrier can delay ignition and reduce heat transfer during a fire event. This evaluation supports compliance with building code requirements for assemblies that contain foam plastics left exposed to the building interior. ### Materials we assess Thermal barriers can be rigid boards, spray-applied coatings, or other heat and fire shielding technologies. Our program evaluates these products in configurations representative of their intended use with the underlying insulation or metal composite material.[ ](https://www.ul.com/services/thermal-barrier-testing-and-certification) ## Test methods and code pathways ### NFPA 275 evaluation We perform the two-part NFPA 275, standard method of fire tests for the evaluation of thermal barriers, evaluation. First, we run a temperature transmission assessment aligned with the fire endurance exposure in accordance to **UL 263,** the Standard for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials. Second, we perform an integrity evaluation using large- or intermediate-scale methods referenced by NFPA 275. ## Included Standards - NFPA 275 Standard method of fire tests for the evaluation of thermal barriers - UL 263 Standard for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials. ### Supporting fire tests and acceptance Depending on the system, the integrity portion can reference **FM 4880**, **UL 1040**, **NFPA 286**, or **UL 1715**. These tests help determine whether the barrier limits flame spread and smoke development in end-use scenarios and align with the pathways recognized in the International Building Code.[ ](https://www.ul.com/services/thermal-barrier-testing-and-certification) ## Included Standards - FM 4880 - UL 1040 - NFPA 286 - UL 1715 ## Benefits for project teams ### Product iQ access and documentation Certified thermal barrier systems are listed in **UL Product iQ**®, including allowances and limitations, so architects, code officials, and specifiers can confirm certification details during design and permitting. Product iQ supports searches by product type, category control number, and related design information.[ ](https://www.ul.com/services/thermal-barrier-testing-and-certification) ### Quality oversight and follow‑up Manufacturers benefit from UL Solutions Follow‑Up Services, which include auditing of production to help maintain consistency with certified constructions. These programs support market trust and help protect the integrity of the UL Mark across the supply chain.[ ](https://www.ul.com/services/thermal-barrier-testing-and-certification) ## Related thermal testing services ### Thermal conductivity testing for plastics For material developers who also need **thermal conductivity testing services**, our **Physical Tests for Plastics** include the NanoFlash™ method to determine thermal diffusivity and calculate thermal conductivity. This supports material selection and heat management decisions that often accompany insulation system design. [ Explore Physical Tests for Plastics ](https://www.ul.com/services/physical-tests-plastics) ### Thermal insulation testing for wall systems Exterior wall assemblies face thermal and fire performance demands. UL Solutions provides **thermal testing** of assemblies such as **ASTM E1363** as part of our exterior wall system portfolio, along with fire propagation, air, water, and structural performance testing. If your project spans beyond the barrier and into system performance, start here. [ See Exterior Wall System Testing and Certification ](https://www.ul.com/services/exterior-wall-system-testing-and-certification) ## Work with UL Solutions We support market acceptance across North America and globally, with test laboratories and services designed to help you bring compliant products to market efficiently. Request a quote to begin planning your thermal barrier test program.[ ](https://www.ul.com/services/thermal-barrier-testing-and-certification) ## Frequently asked questions ### Which materials require a thermal barrier in buildings? *add* *remove* When foam plastic insulation is left exposed to the interior of a building, the code requires it to be separated from the occupied space by an approved thermal barrier. UL’s program evaluates barriers intended for use over foam plastics and metal composite materials to address these conditions. ### How are thermal barriers tested for fire safety? *add* *remove* NFPA 275 calls for two evaluations. One measures heat transmission using the UL 263 fire endurance exposure. The other evaluates system integrity using methods such as UL 1715, NFPA 286, UL 1040, or FM 4880 to assess flame spread and smoke development. ### Can thermal barrier certification help with global building compliance? *add* *remove* Yes. UL Solutions provides global testing and certification solutions that support acceptance in regions including North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. This helps manufacturers address market entry requirements efficiently. ### Where can I verify a thermal barrier’s certification and limitations? *add* *remove* Certified systems are listed in **UL Product iQ**® where you can review conditions of use, assembly details, and related guide information for fire-resistance and passive fire protection categories.[ Learn how to search Product iQ](https://www.ul.com/thecodeauthority/knowledge/ul-listed-certified-database-product-iq).[ ](https://www.ul.com/thecodeauthority/knowledge/ul-listed-certified-database-product-iq) ### Do you offer thermal conductivity testing services that complement thermal barrier evaluations? *add* *remove* Yes. UL Solutions provides thermal conductivity and diffusivity measurements for plastics using the NanoFlash™ method. These tests help characterize material heat flow behavior during development.[ See Physical Tests for Plastics](https://www.ul.com/services/physical-tests-plastics).[ ](https://www.ul.com/services/physical-tests-plastics)