Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fire door?
A fire door is a specially designed door that resists the spread of fire and smoke for a set period of time. It buys time for people to escape and for emergency services to respond.
What do FD30, FD60, FD90, and FD120 mean?
These ratings show how long a door can resist fire in test conditions:
FD30 – 30 minutes
FD60 – 60 minutes
FD90 – 90 minutes
FD120 – 120 minutes
Do all fire doors need to be certified?
Yes — to ensure safety and legal compliance, fire doors should be manufactured and supplied under a recognised certification scheme like BM TRADA Q-Mark. Without certification, there’s no guarantee the door will perform in a real fire.
What is the BM TRADA Q-Mark?
It’s an independent, third-party certification scheme that audits our manufacturing process, tests our doors, and ensures every product meets the required fire performance standards. It also provides full traceability from materials to finished doors.
Are all “fire doors” on the market safe?
No. Some doors are marketed as “fire doors” but aren’t third-party certified. These may fail to perform in a real fire, putting lives and property at risk. Always check for accredited certification marks.
Are fire doors a legal requirement?
Yes — UK Building Regulations require fire doors in certain locations within buildings, such as between a garage and house, in escape routes, and in multi-storey or commercial buildings.
Can I install a fire door myself?
Fire doors must be fitted correctly by a competent person. Poor installation can compromise their performance, even if the door itself is certified.
How often should fire doors be checked?
Regular inspections are recommended — at least every six months for most buildings, and more frequently in high-traffic areas.