Abstract: The present invention provides intumescent powder compositions and methods of using them, the compositions comprising one or more blowing agents that initiate blowing at a first initiation temperature, preferably tetrazoles, one or more phosphorous containing catalysts that act as a blowing agent at a second initiation temperature, one or more hydroxyl functional or epoxy functional thermosetting resin carbonifics, one or more heterocycle containing thermoplastic resin or (co)polymer carbonifics, and one or more low temperature curing agents, such as an imidazole, wherein the compositions initiate blowing at a first and a at second initiation temperature which temperatures differ from each other by 10° C. or more and by up to 150° C. The compositions do not foam during cure and provide cured intumescent coatings on substrates, such as structural steel, exhibiting controlled foaming when exposed to fire.