FAQs About Fire Doors

What are fire doors?

Fire doors are an essential safety feature in many properties as they help to contain and extinguish any potential fires or smoke. Fire doors come in various styles, made from materials that offer robust protection against flames and heat.

How do I know if my door is a fire door?

Most fire doors will have a certification mark visible on the frame or leaf of the door which certifies that the door has passed relevant standard tests for fire resistance. If you cannot find such a label, it is likely that your door is not certified for fire protection.

What types of fire doors are there?

The two most common types of fire doors are FD30 and FD60. FD30 stands for ‘fire-doors rated up to 30 minutes’ while FD60 stands for ‘fire-doors rated up to 60 minutes’. This refers to how long each type of fire door can withstand intense flames and heat without allowing them to spread beyond its perimeter.

What is an intumescent seal?

An intumescent seal is a strip of foam or plastic material that expands when exposed to excessive heat, creating an airtight barrier between the flames on one side of the door, and any combustible material (such as furniture) on the other side. Intumescent seals are commonly found around the edges of fire doors and ensure that they remain fully functional during a blaze.

How often should I check my fire doors?

It's recommended that all residential or commercial buildings with installed fire doors undertake regular checks every six months to ensure their continued efficiency and effectiveness in containing fires or smoke in case of an emergency. During these checks, all hardware must be inspected too; including hinges, locks, latches & intumescent seals.