Difference Between PEB and Steel Structure Buildings in Fireproofing Paint in Saudi Arabia
Fire safety has become one of the most critical aspects of construction in Saudi Arabia. With Vision 2030 driving rapid development across Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Khobar, contractors and developers are paying close attention to compliance with the Saudi Building Code and Civil Defense regulations.
Among the many factors to consider, the difference between Pre-Engineered Buildings (PEB) and conventional steel structure buildings in fireproofing paint applications plays a vital role in ensuring safety, durability, and cost efficiency.
Understanding PEB and Steel Structure Buildings
What Are Pre-Engineered Buildings (PEB)?
PEBs are factory-fabricated steel structures designed and manufactured in a controlled environment before being assembled on-site. They are widely used in Saudi Arabia for warehouses, factories, shopping malls, and cold storage facilities due to their:
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Faster construction timelines
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Cost-efficiency
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Flexible expansion options
For example, BoldTarget’s Rawabi Factory in Dammam and Al Saif Cold Storage Warehouses are clear examples of how PEB systems support industrial growth.
What Are Conventional Steel Structures?
Unlike PEB, conventional steel buildings are custom-designed and fabricated for projects requiring unique designs, higher load capacity, or complex architectural layouts. They are often used in high-rise towers, commercial complexes, and specialized industrial facilities.
Projects like Curvature Mall and Al Barak Commercial Building by BoldTarget highlight the role of conventional steel in delivering architectural flexibility.
The Role of Fireproofing Paint in Saudi Arabia
Fireproofing paint is more than a protective coating—it is a life-safety solution. It delays heat transfer, preserves structural integrity, and provides precious evacuation time during a fire.
In Saudi Arabia, Civil Defense approvals demand certified fireproofing for all steel structures, whether PEB or conventional. The choice of fireproofing paint depends on:
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Building type and usage
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Required fire rating (1-4 hours)
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Environmental exposure
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Budget considerations
Key Differences in Fireproofing Between PEB and Steel Structures
1. Design and Member Size
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PEB: Uses optimized, tapered sections with thinner members. Fireproofing requires precise coating thickness, as thinner steel heats faster.
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Steel Structures: Built with heavier universal beams/columns, which provide more natural fire resistance but require a greater volume of coating.
2. Surface Preparation
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PEB: Fabricated in factories, offering smoother surfaces and better paint adhesion.
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Steel Structures: Often fabricated on-site, requiring more intensive surface cleaning before applying fireproof coatings.
3. Fire Rating Requirements
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PEB: Typically requires 30–120 minutes fire resistance, suitable for warehouses and light industrial applications.
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Steel Structures: May need up to 240 minutes fire rating, especially in high-rise or oil & gas projects in cities like Yanbu and Jubail.
4. Cost Implications
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PEB: Lower fireproofing cost due to efficient steel usage but higher precision in application.
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Steel Structures: Higher material consumption but more flexibility in using thicker intumescent coatings.
5. Application Method
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PEB: Spray-applied intumescent paint is common due to controlled fabrication.
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Steel Structures: Can use both spray-applied and trowel-applied cementitious fireproofing depending on project scope.
Fireproofing Paint Solutions in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, popular fireproofing systems include:
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Intumescent Coatings: Expand when exposed to fire, forming an insulating layer.
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Cementitious Coatings: Provide thick, durable fireproof layers.
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Thin Film Epoxy Coatings: Resistant to harsh environments such as oil & gas facilities.
At BoldTarget, fireproofing is applied across diverse projects such as:
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OMS Oilfield Services Factory (industrial fireproofing for oil & gas).
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Yamama Steel (steel plant protection).
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Alfa Factory in Dammam’s 3rd Industrial City (intumescent coating application).
Benefits of Choosing the Right Fireproofing for PEB and Steel Structures
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Compliance with Saudi Civil Defense standards
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Enhanced occupant safety
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Extended building lifespan
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Reduced insurance costs
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Increased investor confidence
Why BoldTarget Leads in Fireproofing Solutions
As a leading general contracting company in Saudi Arabia, BoldTarget combines engineering expertise with certified fireproofing solutions. Our team ensures that both PEB and steel structures meet fire safety requirements through:
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Professional surface preparation
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Use of certified intumescent paints
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Strict quality control
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On-site and factory-based applications
Conclusion
The difference between PEB and steel structure buildings in fireproofing paint in Saudi Arabia lies in their design, fire rating needs, and application techniques. While PEB systems demand precision due to lighter members, conventional steel structures often require higher fire ratings and thicker coatings.
By working with trusted contractors like BoldTarget, developers and business owners across Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Khobar can ensure fire safety, compliance, and long-term structural durability.
