Timber Fire Rated Doors

The main difference between FD30, FD60, FD90, and FD120 fire-rated doors is the duration for which they can resist fire, measured in minutes. The ratings indicate the door's ability to contain fire and smoke within a specified time frame. The higher the number, the longer the door can withstand fire.

For example:

• FD30 – Provides 30 minutes of fire resistance.
• FD60 – Provides 60 minutes of fire resistance.
• FD90 – Provides 90 minutes of fire resistance.
• FD120 – Provides 120 minutes of fire resistance.

In summary:

• FD30: Commonly used in residential homes, apartments, and offices.
• FD60: Suitable for commercial buildings, stairwells, and high-risk areas.
• FD90 & FD120: Used in high-risk environments, such as industrial buildings, large commercial spaces, and areas storing hazardous materials.

Each door must also be installed with certified fire-rated hardware (hinges, seals, handles, and closers) to maintain its fire resistance effectiveness.

FD30 and FD60 doors are typically made of solid wood core or composite materials.

FD90 and FD120 doors are often heavily reinforced with additional fire-resistant materials like gypsum, steel, or other composites.

There are differences in thickness too, as:

• FD30 doors are usually 44mm thick.
• FD60 doors are typically 54mm thick.
• FD90 and FD120 doors are thicker and more reinforced for extended resistance.

Whether buying power-assisted gates or doors, these MUST be fully compliant with UK law. It’s important to understand and even request evidence to prove that everything is above board. Once purchased, companies then become responsible for maintenance whilst ensuring the safety of use based on specific circumstances.

This may seem like a question you’d never ask but it’s certainly an important one. Without insurance, should something go wrong during installation, the customer could be landed with a costly and unexpected bill. This seemingly bold question should never be a problem, especially to a business who’s covered.

Again, we’ll highlight the fact that secure doors are an investment. It’s important to know they are going to be under warranty, even if it’s only for a short time. When using a reputable company the topic of warranties will be discussed in the first instance. If not, don’t be afraid to ask or request paperwork.

The worst thing any company can do is vanish once the deal is done. Having mentioned health and safety above, it’s intrinsic to to understand that high levels of safety must continue. Again, a company with a decent reputation will discuss this initially whilst recommending maintenance services. Make sure you’re fully aware of your responsibilities as a company owner with regards to secure door systems.

As not every company works the traditional 9am – 5pm shift pattern, you’ll need to be fully versed with applicable times to call, especially in the case of an emergency. Ideally, a secure door provider will be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When this is the case, should you experience a breakdown, help will be on its way sooner resulting in less downtime and revenue loss.