Are custom finishes like wood grain still fire rated compliant?

Custom finishes on aluminum ceiling or facade panels primarily serve aesthetic purposes and typically use PVDF, polyester powder coatings, or high-temperature printing on aluminum. Because these coatings are thin (<100 µm) and non-combustible at operating temperatures, they do not undermine a panel’s fire resistance. However, any finish change must be validated within the certified fire-rated system: manufacturers test panels with specific coatings, so swapping to an untested finish can void the rating. Wood-grain films laminated on aluminum must also be fire-rated versions; otherwise, additional intumescent backing or gypsum layers may be required. Always obtain manufacturer’s documentation confirming that the chosen finish, in combination with the base panel and assembly, retains the specified 1- or 2-hour rating.