Inspecting Fire Doors, The Vigor Way

Where Fire Doors Are Needed

When fire doors are placed correctly, they form a passive fire protection system between components of a building’s structure. They’re fitted across a range of dwellings from houses to commercial properties and different rules apply to each. Fire doors need to be placed strategically, otherwise, they lose much of their use.

For those seeking to fit fire doors in a building of your own, you’ll need professional advice. This is especially true for those that are renting properties that are going to house occupants. As a general rule, fire doors shouldn’t impede the way in which a building normally functions.

Types of Fire Doors (FD30 and FD60)

One size may fit all in some cases, but not when it comes to fire doors. In fact, fire doors are variable though at their core they all serve the same purpose. The FD30 is the most common fire door, which will last a minimum of 30 minutes during a fire. These doors are usually 44/45mm thick. Heavy and robust, this door is most likely to be found in commercial and residential builds.

Stepping up in protection coverage from this door is the FD60. The fire-rated door can last for a minimum of 60 minutes during a fire and are usually 54mm thick. Some FD60 doors can last for up to 4 hours or more (though this is dependent on its rating) and they’re found in commercial builds.

All fire doors need a solid core construction. Manufacturers typically use durable materials including timber, magboard, flaxboard and particleboard. The way in which a door is assembled can vary, though as separate components all parts must be tested together to receive a certified rating.

At Vigor Doors we offer a range of different types of fire doors including paint grade, veneered, laminate, foil and vision panel. And, we can add features as per your specifications including certified ironmongery and air transfer gills. Our Fire Door Checklist includes more information about how to inspect a fire door’s construction.

Fire Door Components

As with standard doors, fire doors are constructed with several components. Each component requires a standard of attention to detail like no other. This is because, in the case of a fire, no one part can be slacking. The different elements that work together give the door its overall fire rating (FD30 and FD60). Outside of the door itself, an effective fire door must use an intumescent seal, door hinges, letter plates, locks and latches, hold-open devices, air transfer grills and more.