Expert Guide To IMO Wallcoverings

IMO wallcoverings and IMO wallpapers are essentially the same product, both designed to meet the stringent safety standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The terms are often used interchangeably to describe materials used on the interior walls of marine environments, such as cruise ships, yachts, and offshore facilities. These products are specifically engineered to be fire-resistant, durable, and easy to maintain, ensuring they can withstand the harsh conditions typical of marine settings. Both IMO wallcoverings and wallpapers undergo rigorous testing for flammability, toxicity, and other safety aspects to earn their certification. However, in product composition there is a difference between the two terms: “wallcoverings” refers to products with a broader range of backing materials, including vinyl and fabric-backed options, while “wallpapers” refer to products with a traditional paper-based backing. In general, very few modern products have a paper-based backing, but the term “wallpaper” is still used to describe them. It is always recommend to check the composition and backing of a wallcovering or wallpaper product to make sure it meets your project need.

What Are IMO Wallcoverings?

IMO wallcoverings are specially designed materials that meet the stringent safety and performance standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). These wallcoverings are primarily used in marine environments, including cruise ships, pleasure crafts, and offshore facilities, where safety, durability, and aesthetic appeal are crucial. IMO wallcoverings are a type of marine-grade wallpaper that has passed rigorous testing for flammability, toxicity, and other safety features. The International Maritime Organization sets these standards to ensure the materials used in marine environments can withstand the unique challenges posed by these settings. The primary focus is on preventing the spread of fire and minimizing the release of toxic gases during combustion.

When Should You Use IMO Wallcoverings?

IMO wallcoverings and wallpapers should be used in projects executed in marine environments, for example:

Cruise Ships: Providing both aesthetic appeal and safety, IMO wallcoverings enhance the interior design of cruise ships while ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

Pleasure Crafts: Smaller boats and yachts benefit from the durability and safety of IMO wallcoverings, which can be customized to fit various design preferences.

Offshore Facilities: Oil rigs and other offshore platforms use these materials to ensure safety and durability in harsh marine environments.

IMO Wallcovering Performance Characteristics

The performance of IMO wallcoverings is marked by several key attributes:

Fire Resistance: IMO wallcoverings must pass specific fire safety tests, including the IMO FTP Code, ensuring they do not contribute significantly to fire spread or produce harmful smoke and gases. They typically achieve high fire ratings such as Class A to ASTM E-84 and Class “0” & “1” to BS476​.

Durability: Designed to withstand the rigors of marine environments, these wallcoverings are robust and resistant to wear and tear. They may be made from materials like polyester cotton Osnaburg backing, which enhances their strength and longevity​.

Moisture and Mold Resistance: Many IMO wallcoverings incorporate technologies to manage moisture and prevent mold growth, which is critical in the humid and variable conditions of marine settings. For example, technologies like Biopruf offer a wat to upgrade wallcoverings with a strong anti-germ, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and self-deodorizing solution.

Ease of Maintenance: These wallcoverings are designed to be easy to clean, making them practical for high-traffic areas such as cruise ship corridors and public spaces​.

Benefits of IMO Wallcoverings

The adoption of IMO wallcoverings offers several advantages:

Safety Compliance: Ensuring adherence to international safety standards, these wallcoverings help marine vessels meet regulatory requirements, thereby enhancing overall passenger and crew safety.

Aesthetic Flexibility: Available in a wide range of designs and customizable options, IMO wallcoverings allow for creative freedom in interior design without compromising safety. This is particularly important for cruise ships that aim to provide a luxurious and visually appealing experience​.

Cost-Effectiveness: Their durability and ease of maintenance reduce long-term costs associated with repairs and replacements. Additionally, their ability to resist mold and moisture extends the lifespan of the wallcoverings, contributing to cost savings over time.

Environmental and Health Benefits: Many IMO wallcoverings are manufactured with eco-friendly materials, free from harmful substances like PBDEs and DEHP plasticizers. They often include antimicrobial additives to enhance hygiene in communal areas​.

Usages Of IMO wallcoverings

Luxury Cruise Ship Restaurant

IMO wallcoverings are extensively used in the grand dining halls of luxury cruise ships. These wallcoverings not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the dining area with intricate designs and elegant patterns but also ensure the highest safety standards. In the event of a fire, IMO wallcoverings are designed to prevent the spread of flames and release minimal toxic gases, providing passengers with a safe environment. The durability and easy maintenance of these wallcoverings make them ideal for high-traffic areas like dining halls, where they must withstand constant use and cleaning without losing their visual appeal.

Cruise Ship Corridors

Corridors in cruise ships are another common area where IMO wallcoverings are utilized. These spaces are often long and narrow, requiring materials that can endure heavy foot traffic and occasional impacts from luggage and carts. IMO wallcoverings in these corridors provide a seamless blend of functionality and style. They are designed to resist fire and smoke, crucial for ensuring safe evacuation routes during emergencies. Additionally, their aesthetic flexibility allows designers to create welcoming and visually appealing passageways that enhance the overall passenger experience.

Cruise Ship Passenger Cabins

Passenger cabins on cruise ships are outfitted with IMO wallcoverings to combine comfort with safety. The wallcoverings in these private spaces are chosen for their ability to create a cozy and luxurious atmosphere while meeting stringent fire safety standards. These materials are typically easy to clean and resistant to mold and mildew, which is essential in the humid marine environment. The variety of designs available allows for personalization of the cabin interiors, contributing to a pleasant stay for passengers.

Cruise Ship Staircases

In cruise ships, staircases are critical pathways that connect different decks and areas. IMO wallcoverings around these staircases provide both safety and aesthetic enhancement. The fire-resistant properties of IMO wallcoverings are vital in these areas, as staircases are essential for safe evacuation during emergencies. These wallcoverings help prevent the spread of fire and release minimal toxic gases, ensuring that passengers have a safe route to exit the ship. Additionally, the durable nature of IMO wallcoverings allows them to withstand high foot traffic and frequent contact with luggage and other items. Their easy-to-clean surface helps maintain a pristine appearance despite constant use. Aesthetically, the intricate designs and patterns available in IMO wallcoverings can transform a simple staircase into a grand and elegant feature of the ship, contributing to a luxurious atmosphere that enhances the overall passenger experience.

Offshore Facilities

IMO wallcoverings are also essential in offshore facilities such as oil rigs and platforms. These environments are exposed to harsh conditions and require materials that are not only fire-resistant but also durable against environmental factors like saltwater exposure and high humidity. The wallcoverings help protect the structural integrity of the facility while ensuring that living and working areas remain safe and habitable. Their ability to withstand severe conditions without deteriorating makes them a reliable choice for offshore installations.

Yacht Interiors

Yachts, both private and chartered, benefit from the use of IMO wallcoverings in their interiors. These luxury vessels demand high standards of safety and elegance. IMO wallcoverings meet these requirements by providing fire resistance and an extensive range of design options. Yacht owners can choose from bespoke patterns and colors that reflect their personal style, ensuring the interior spaces are both beautiful and secure. The wallcoverings’ resistance to wear and tear, along with their easy maintenance, ensures that the yacht interiors remain pristine throughout their voyages.

IMO Wallcovering Suppliers

IMO wallcoverings can be sourced from wallcovering suppliers who cater to the marine industry, ensuring compliance with international safety standards. Feathr is a leading supplier of IMO wallcoverings and has developed a unique offering in the IMO wallcoverings category, with its full collection of 1500+ designs available on IMO-certified materials. Feathr also offers no minimums, fast worldwide shipping and a rapid custom design service for marine projects that need a unique design.

The Feathr team has the expertise and design knowledge required for marine-grade wallcoverings. Our products are designed to withstand the high-traffic marine environment while still providing a beautiful interior.

Get in touch to work with Feathr as your IMO wallcovering supplier.