Fire in the home or workplace is an ever-present risk, which makes prevention and preparation essential. Sensible precautions can reduce both the likelihood of a fire starting and the severity of injury or property damage if one does occur.
One option often considered is installing fire-retardant carpet or applying fire-retardant treatments to existing carpets, curtains and furnishings. But how effective are these treatments — and are they worth the investment?
How Quickly Modern Fires Spread
A striking demonstration of modern fire behaviour was shown in an episode of the ABC science program Catalyst, where scientists at the CSIRO’s major fire testing facility recreated a typical child’s bedroom using common furniture, fittings and toys.
When a small flame was ignited on a bedside table, the results were alarming. Within one minute, a bookshelf, pillows and a bean bag were fully alight, producing thick, black smoke. Shortly after, a ceiling light fitting melted, the carpet began to peel, and the room was completely engulfed. In just two minutes, the fire reached flashover — the point where nearly all combustible materials ignite almost simultaneously.
Why Fires Burn Faster in Modern Buildings
According to researchers, the speed of the fire was largely due to the materials used in modern homes and offices. Decades ago, furniture made from solid timber, hessian and natural fillings such as horsehair took much longer to burn — often 17 to 20 minutes before flashover occurred.
Today, many furnishings are made from petrochemical-based materials. In fact, a modern sofa can contain the energy equivalent of around six litres of petrol, meaning it ignites faster and burns more intensely than its traditional counterparts. This significantly reduces the time available to escape safely.
Prevention Always Comes First
The most important fire safety measures remain basic but critical: working smoke alarms, accessible fire extinguishers, well-maintained electrical systems and sensible household practices.
That said, fire-retardant treatments — particularly for curtains, wall hangings and soft furnishings — can help slow flame spread and buy valuable seconds or minutes. In a fire situation, that extra time can be crucial for evacuation and avoiding exposure to toxic smoke.
Fire Retardant Carpets in Commercial Settings
In large carpeted environments such as hotels, offices and apartment complexes, fire-retardant treatment may make sense from a commercial perspective. Slowing the spread of fire can reduce the extent of damage and may help avoid the costly replacement of entire carpet installations.
Before proceeding, it’s important to:
- Check whether fire-retardant treatment affects carpet warranties
- Understand exactly what chemicals are being applied
- Seek professional advice on suitability for your specific environment
Routine professional care, such as commercial carpet cleaning, also plays a role in maintaining carpet condition and safety over time.
Natural Fibre Carpets: A Safer Alternative
Another option is choosing natural fibre carpets instead of synthetic ones. Wool carpets, in particular, offer inherent fire resistance. Wool has a high ignition temperature (around 580°C), does not melt or drip, requires more oxygen to continue burning and produces relatively low heat. Importantly, it is also self-extinguishing.
While wool carpets often come at a higher upfront cost, they provide an added safety benefit alongside durability and comfort. Learn more about carpet materials and care in our guide to why carpet cleaning is essential.
Professional Advice Makes the Difference
Whether you’re managing a commercial property or maintaining a family home, understanding how your carpets perform in a fire — and how they’re maintained — is an important part of risk management. Elite Maintenance Services Group works in line with recognised IICRC standards and provides expert advice on carpet care, safety and longevity.
Need professional support with carpet maintenance or safety planning?
Request a quote or call us on 131 580 to speak with Elite Maintenance Services Group about professional carpet cleaning and care solutions.
