Certified Fireproof Doors & Windows

Fire rated windows are specifically tested and certified to withstand fire for a designated time (e.g., 30 or 60 minutes), maintaining integrity and sometimes insulation. Fire-resistant windows, while similar, may not meet all testing standards for “fire rated” certification but still offer some level of fire resistance.

Modifying or replacing any single part of a certified fire rated door system can weaken its effectiveness and compromise its fire-resistance capabilities. Fire rated doors are tested and certified as complete units, meaning all elements – including the door leaf, frame, hardware, seals, and other components – are designed and evaluated together to meet specific fire-resistance standards.

Each component within the system is selected and tested for compatibility with the others. When one of these elements is replaced with a part that has not been tested or certified for that specific configuration, the overall fire performance of the door may no longer meet the required standards. Even small changes, such as swapping out hinges, locks, or latches, can significantly alter the door’s functionality and fire resistance.

If modifications are necessary, it’s essential to consult a third-party certifier who can guide you on the proper steps to maintain compliance. In many cases, they may recommend re-testing the entire door assembly to ensure it still meets the original fire-rating requirements.

Yes, but only if the steel fire rated door system has been specifically tested and certified for use in drywall installations. If a door system has been designed and tested for masonry wall applications, it can only be installed in a drywall system if supported by a technical assessment from the Competent Authority Body (CAB).

This assessment must rely on fire test data and established scientific and engineering principles. Drywall partitions respond differently to fire compared to masonry walls, so a direct substitution without proper evaluation could compromise fire safety.

In cases where sufficient historical test data or published engineering practices are unavailable to support such an assessment, additional indicative testing or type testing may be necessary to verify performance in the new application. Always ensure compliance with technical and safety requirements before installation.

The acceptable gap between a fire rated door and its frame varies based on factors like the door type, frame material, and intended use of the door set. For most fire doors, the gap is generally limited to 2–3 mm around the perimeter, while for steel fire doors, it is typically 3–4 mm.

Always refer to the specific manufacturer’s guidelines for the door and frame in question, as the exact allowance will depend on the certified listing and design specifications.

The required fire rating depends on the building’s design and use,

• 30 minutes (EW30 or EI30): suitable for low to moderate fire risk areas, such as bedrooms, living rooms, corridors with low fire load.
• 60 minutes (EW60 or EI60): used for high-risk zones like stairwells, kitchens, lobbies and escape routes.
• 90+ minutes: used in industrial or hazardous environments requiring extended protection, such as high-rise residential or commercial buildings and hospitals.

Check out the areas we cover in the United Kingdom for more information about fire resistance ratings and UK regulations.