Fire doors are critical components of the safety systems in many buildings. They function as a barrier to keep smoke, fire, and heat from spreading through a structure––allowing valuable time for people to evacuate safely and firefighters to battle the blaze. Correctly installed, properly certified, and maintained fire doors go a long way in ensuring protection against fires and other hazardous incidents. In this blog post, we’ll review some factors to consider when installing fire doors in your building.

1. Certifications

All fire doors must meet stringent UL and NFPA standards to be safe. Certification agencies test the door’s materials, construction, and fire rating before approving it. Ensure you only purchase certified fire doors from a reputable vendor to ensure optimal protection. Ideally, the certification should be maintained even after installation.

This requires regular testing and maintenance to keep the fire door in good condition and ensure that it is free of any damage or deformations. Capital Fire Doors is an example of a company that can provide certified fire door installation and maintenance services. The company also provides fire door inspections to ensure the installed doors are working correctly.

2. Type of Fire Door

The type of fire door you choose depends on the specific needs of your building and its occupants. There are three types: swing, sliding, and rolling fire doors. Each has its unique features that can be tailored for particular purposes.

For instance, swing doors can be used for small areas like bathrooms and closets where sliding or rolling fire doors won’t fit, while sliding fire doors are perfect for commercial buildings and warehouses due to their large size.

3. Installation Requirements

Fire door installation is a precise process that requires attention to detail to ensure proper performance. This includes proper measurements for the door’s frame, hardware, and other components. It also involves ensuring that all materials used are up to code and properly sealing the door from top to bottom to prevent fire and smoke from entering through cracks or gaps in the door frame.

You should also be aware of the local building codes in your area, as they can help you ensure that the fire door you install meets all local requirements.

4. Cost

The cost of a fire door installation project varies depending on the type and size of the door, materials used, and labor costs. It’s essential to get quotes from several vendors to compare prices and services. It’s also wise to consider the long-term value of the fire door, as it could save lives and property if used correctly during an emergency.

You should also factor in the cost of inspections and ongoing maintenance to ensure the fire door is always working properly. The cost of these services can add up quickly, so it’s essential to budget for them when planning your fire door installation project.

5. Maintenance

Fire doors require regular maintenance to remain functional and practical. This includes periodic inspections for damaged or malfunctioning components, as well as the testing of its fire rating. Additionally, the door should be regularly lubricated to ensure smooth opening and closing.

Finally, it’s crucial to ensure all surrounding components, like frames and hardware, are in good condition and properly installed. This includes checking for gaps or cracks that could compromise the fire door’s effectiveness. You should buy your door from a company that also offers maintenance services. Capital Fire Doors offers such services in addition to their fire door installation and inspection services.

Installing fire doors in your building is an important step to protect the safety of the people inside. Researching and considering the factors discussed above can help you ensure your fire door installation project succeeds and meets all of the necessary standards.