Fire door inspections frequently identify doors not meeting current standards. The question is whether each can be brought up to standard through repair or needs replacement.
A fire door can often be repaired where the leaf is structurally sound but has defective intumescent strips, worn smoke seals, defective self-closers, excessive gaps or minor surface damage.
Replacement is needed where the leaf is damaged beyond repair, warped, delaminated, not of the correct specification, or previously altered in ways that compromise its fire rating.
Repaired doors should be documented. Replacement doors must have a manufacturer's certificate of conformity. Third-party certification from BWF-CERTIFIRE, BM TRADA or IFC provides additional assurance.
Repair typically costs 50 to 150 pounds per door. Replacement costs 400 to 1,000 pounds or more. On large blocks, repairing where possible saves tens of thousands of pounds.
At least every six months in residential buildings, quarterly in higher-risk premises. Annual detailed inspection by a competent person is recommended.
Generally no. Cutting compromises the fire rating and replacement is needed.
Yes. All fire doors in common parts and flat entrance doors must have functioning self-closing devices.
A certificate of conformity from the manufacturer and ideally third-party certification from BWF-CERTIFIRE, BM TRADA or IFC.