How to Specify a Fire Door

Fire doors save lives. They're not just a regulatory box to tick—they're critical life safety systems that protect building occupants and property. In the UK, compliance isn't optional, but navigating the specifications can feel overwhelming.

This guide cuts through the complexity, offering clear, step-by-step advice for specifying the right fire doors for your commercial projects. We've distilled decades of expertise into practical guidance you can trust.

Why does proper specification matter? Because when fire strikes, those minutes of compartmentation make all the difference.

Understanding Fire Door Classifications

FD30 vs FD30S: What's the Difference?

An FD30 door provides 30 minutes of fire resistance, while an FD30S includes smoke seals for that crucial extra protection. Think of the 'S' as saving additional lives by preventing smoke inhalation—the leading cause of fire fatalities.

Beyond the Basics: Other Classifications

• FD60: 60 minutes of fire resistance

• FD90: 90 minutes of fire resistance

• FD120: 120 minutes of fire resistance

The numbers represent minutes of protection—crucial time for evacuation and emergency response.

Standards That Matter

British Standard BS 476 and European Standard EN 1634 provide the testing frameworks that ensure your specified doors will perform when it matters most. These aren't just codes on paper—they're your assurance that the door will hold back fire when lives depend on it.

Key Considerations When Specifying Fire Doors

1. Building Type and Use

Different buildings demand different levels of protection. A hospital corridor requires different specifications than a hotel room entrance. Have you considered:

• Occupancy levels?

• Evacuation times?

• Value of assets being protected?

2. Location Assessment

Fire doors work as part of a building's overall fire strategy. Where are your critical fire compartmentation areas? Which doors protect escape routes? Thinking beyond individual doors to the entire fire protection system ensures comprehensive safety.

3. Material Selection

Timber Fire Doors Warm, natural and versatile—timber fire doors offer aesthetic appeal with proven fire performance. From rich oak to elegant maple, these doors combine beauty with safety.

Glazed Fire Doors Need light transmission without compromising safety? Properly specified fire-rated glazing maintains compartmentation while creating bright, open spaces. The right glazed fire door transforms corridors from dark tunnels to welcoming spaces.

Composite Options Modern composite doors offer exceptional performance characteristics, often combining the best properties of multiple materials for optimal fire resistance.

Technical Specification Checklist

• Frame Specifications: The door is only as good as its frame. Ensure compatible materials, dimensions, and fixing methods.

• Door Leaf Construction: Core materials, thickness, and edge details all impact fire performance.

• Intumescent Strips and Smoke Seals: These expand during fire to seal gaps, preventing smoke and flame spread.

• Ironmongery Compatibility: Every hinge, lock, and handle must be fire-rated and compatible with your door specification.

• Glazing Requirements: If specifying doors with vision panels, ensure correct fire-rated glass, aperture sizes, and glazing methods.

Selecting the Right Manufacturer

The manufacturer you choose can make all the difference between compliance and complications. Look for:

Essential Certifications

• Third-party certification (such as IFC)

• ISO 9001 quality management systems

• Membership of schemes like the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers or ASDMA

Manufacturing Excellence

Visit the factory if possible. Does the manufacturer demonstrate:

• Rigorous quality control?

• Consistent production processes?

• Investment in testing and development?

Supply Chain Transparency

Can they trace every component from source to finished door? This traceability isn't just good practice—it's essential for demonstrating compliance.

Proven Track Record

Ask for case studies similar to your project. Have they successfully delivered comparable specifications? Their experience can prevent costly mistakes in your project.

Technical Support

The best manufacturers offer more than products—they provide expertise. Do they offer:

• Specification writing assistance?

• Site visits and consultations?

• Comprehensive technical documentation?

Documentation and Compliance

Proper documentation isn't bureaucracy—it's protection for you and your client. Ensure your specification includes:

• Fire test evidence and assessment reports

• Third-party certification documentation

• Performance declarations

• Installation instructions

• Maintenance requirements

These documents form the audit trail that demonstrates due diligence and compliance.

Quick Reference: Fire Door Specification Guide

1. Determine required fire resistance period

2. Identify locations requiring smoke control

3. Select appropriate door construction and materials

4. Specify compatible frame, ironmongery and seals

5. Choose a certified manufacturer

6. Document all requirements clearly

7. Include installation and maintenance guidance

Frequently Asked Questions

"Can I use glazed fire doors in all areas?"

Yes, provided the glazing system has been tested as part of the complete fire doorset for the required period of fire resistance. Always check the maximum permitted glazed area and approved glass types in the fire test evidence.

"What's the difference between FD30 and FD30S?"

FD30 provides 30 minutes of fire resistance. FD30S adds smoke seals for protection against cold smoke spread—crucial for escape routes and vulnerable occupant areas.

How do I specify a timber fire door for a heritage building?

Heritage projects require balancing authenticity with safety. Look for manufacturers who specialise in period reproductions with modern fire performance. Consider:

• Traditional joinery methods with fire-resistant cores

• Period-appropriate veneers and finishes

• Concealed modern seals and intumescent products

What certification should I look for when specifying a fire door?

Prioritise third-party certification schemes like Certifire or BM TRADA Q-Mark. These provide independent verification that doors meet claimed performance standards.

How do I balance aesthetic requirements with fire performance?

Modern fire doors offer remarkable design flexibility. Specify:

• Decorative veneers and laminates

• Period mouldings

• Designer ironmongery

• Custom staining and finishing

All can be achieved without compromising fire performance.

How do I evaluate fire door manufacturers?

Ask for evidence of testing, certification, and quality systems. Visit facilities if possible, and request references from similar projects. The best manufacturers welcome scrutiny—they're proud to demonstrate their expertise.

Resources

• Building Regulations: Approved Document B (Fire Safety)

• Certification Bodies: BM TRADA, Warrington Certification

• Industry Guidance: British Woodworking Federation Fire Door Alliance

• Testing Standards: BS 476-22, EN 1634-1

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incomplete specification: Every component must be specified

• Mixing and matching: Using components not tested together

• Overlooking certification: Ensure all products have valid certification

• Ignoring compatibility: Doors, frames, and hardware must work as a system

• Forgetting maintenance: Even the best doors need regular inspection

Remember: A properly specified fire door isn't just about compliance—it's about creating safer buildings that protect lives and property. The time you invest in getting it right pays dividends in peace of mind.