Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Fire Doors and Why Do They Matter?
Fire doors are designed to slow the spread of fire and smoke within a building, protecting escape routes and helping occupants evacuate safely. They form a critical part of a building’s passive fire protection strategy.
What Are Fire Doors Made Of?
Most fire doors are manufactured using timber-based or composite cores that have been tested and certified for fire resistance. The construction, core type, seals, glazing, and hardware all contribute to the overall fire rating.
What Sizes Are Fire Doors Available In?
Standard fire door sizes are available in a wide range of dimensions, with bespoke sizing also available for larger or non-standard openings. We can help supply custom-made fire doors to suit specific project requirements.
What Is a Fire Door Assembly?
A fire door assembly refers to a fire door, frame, and ironmongery supplied separately. Each component carries its own certification and must be compatible to maintain compliance.
What Is a Fire Door Set?
A fire door set is supplied as a complete tested system, including the door leaf, frame, seals, and hardware under one certification. Door sets are often preferred for simplified compliance and installation.
What Do FD30 and FD60 Mean?
FD30 fire doors are designed to provide up to 30 minutes of fire resistance, while FD60 fire doors provide up to 60 minutes. Higher ratings such as FD90 and FD120 are also available for specialist applications.
Are Fire Doors a Legal Requirement in the UK?
Yes. Fire doors are legally required in many residential, commercial, and public buildings throughout the UK to help meet fire safety regulations and protect escape routes.
Can Fire Doors Have Glass?
Yes, provided the glazing system itself is fire-rated and tested as part of the door specification. Glazed fire doors can provide visibility and natural light while maintaining fire performance.
Can Fire Doors Be Painted?
Yes. Fire doors can be painted like standard doors, however intumescent seals and smoke seals should not be painted over as this may affect performance.
Can Fire Doors Be Wedged Open?
No. Wedging a fire door open is unsafe and illegal because it prevents the door from performing correctly during a fire. Approved hold-open devices should be used where necessary.
Can Fire Doors Be Left Open?
Only when fitted with an approved hold-open device such as a Dorgard or magnetic hold-open system connected to the fire alarm. Otherwise, fire doors should remain closed.
Can Fire Doors Be Locked?
Yes, but any locking system must still allow safe escape in an emergency. Fire doors should always be fitted with suitable compliant hardware.
How Do Fire Doors Work?
Fire doors create protected compartments within a building, slowing the spread of flames and smoke. This helps protect escape routes and gives occupants more time to evacuate safely.
How Much Can I Trim Off a Fire Door?
The amount that can be trimmed depends on the fire door core manufacturer and certification. In many cases, only minimal trimming is permitted. Always check the manufacturer’s guidance before altering a fire door.
How Much Do Fire Doors Cost?
Fire door pricing varies depending on specification, rating, glazing, finish, and whether the door is bespoke. Standard models may start from under £200, while larger or specialist doors can cost significantly more.
How Often Should Fire Doors Be Checked?
Fire doors should generally be inspected every six months, with more frequent inspections recommended in high-use or higher-risk environments. Regular checks help ensure ongoing compliance and performance.
How Long Do Fire Doors Last?
With proper installation, maintenance, and regular inspections, fire doors can remain effective for many years. Longevity depends on usage, environment, and ongoing maintenance.
Who Is Responsible for Fire Doors in Flats?
Responsibility can vary depending on the building and ownership structure, however flat entrance doors are commonly the responsibility of the flat owner because they protect shared escape routes.
Who Should Install Fire Doors?
Fire doors should only be installed by competent professionals with appropriate experience and accreditation to ensure compliance and correct performance.
Where Are Fire Doors Required?
Fire doors are commonly required:
- Along escape routes
- Around stairwells and corridors
- In plant rooms and boiler rooms
- Between flats and communal areas
- In commercial and public buildings
Their purpose is to contain fire and protect occupants during evacuation.
Do You Supply External Fire Doors?
Yes. We supply external fire door solutions designed to provide both fire protection and durability for external applications.
Do You Supply Double Fire Doors?
Yes. We offer flush, glazed, and panelled double fire doors, including bespoke rebated double door configurations for larger openings and commercial applications.
Do Your Fire Doors Meet UK Fire Safety Standards?
Yes. Our fire doors are supplied to meet relevant UK fire safety standards and certification requirements, helping support compliant installations across residential and commercial projects.
Get in touch
Have questions about your order, or a general enquiry?
sales@premierfiredoors.com | 0330 122 9550