The British Woodworking Federation Group
Fire Door Installation

Fire Door Installation

Fire doors that are incorrectly installed and fitted with incompatible components invalidate certification and will not provide adequate protection for occupants or the building.

Installation of fire doors is as life critical as the product specification itself and should only be carried out by someone who is competent, has been specifically trained to install fire doors and understands their responsibilities in getting it right.

All fire third party certified fire doors should be supplied with installation instructions that are specific to the product. Installation methods and materials can change depending on a number of factors, including product type and installation environment and so it is vital that these are referred to and adhered to. 

Getting it right

There are several key things to remember when installing a fire door: 

  • Any individual installing a fire door should be fully trained and competent to do so.
  • Look for a label or a plug to show that the door is certificated and check the instructions/certificate supplied.
  • Essential Ironmongery such as locks, latches, closers and hinges must be CE marked, firmly fixed with no missing screws and compatible with the door leaf’s certification.
  • The choice of frame/lining/casing and intumescent/smoke seals should also be compatible.
  • The instructions on the door – they should be followed to ensure correct installation.
  • The frame specification – should be correct for the door’s fire rating.
  • The Building Regulations – are you following all of them correctly.
  • Never cut glazing apertures on site.  Cutting apertures for glazing and air transfer grilles on site will invalidate certification. This should only be carried out by a certificated licensed processor 
  • The gap between door and frame at the top and sides should be 2-4 mm and the threshold gap as per manufacturers instructions (typically around 8-10 mm) – the certificate will include details of this.
  • Ensure any voids between door frame and wall are tightly packed with mineral wool.
  • Check the certificate to ensure that you are only using compatible ironmongery (hinges, closers etc) and intumescent seals (in all the right places).
  • Once complete. check that the closer shuts the door onto the latch from any position.

 

Fire Door Installation Guide

For more detailed information on fire door installation, download our guide (members only) for non-members please visit our shop.

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