Upgrading timber doorsets for fire resistance
This Wood Information Sheet gives guidance on assessing the suitability of existing doors for upgrading to give a 20 or 30 minutes' fire resistance comparable with that of purpose-made fire doors. Upgrading to 60 minutes' performance will rarely be possible.
Upgrading the fire resistance of existing doors is a common requirement in heritage buildings. Conservators look for solutions with minimal impact on the appearance and function of existing doors.
The requirements for fire doors are quite complex, therefore it is recommended to read TRADA's WIS Performance of fire-resisting timber doorsets which explains the principles.
Contents:
- Strategy to upgrade for fire resistance
- Suitability of existing doors for upgrading
- Methods of upgrading
- Identifying upgraded fire doors
This Wood Information Sheet was reviewed in April 2017 and minor corrections were made to the references section.
Suggested Reading
Passive fire protection
Chiltern International Fire's Product Assessor Simon Bailey discusses the role of passive fire protection (PFP) products, in the context of Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order, and emphasises the need for correct installation to ensure performance and life safety.
Article from the TRADA Timber Industry Yearbook 2012
01/01/2012 | Magazine Article
Limiting fire and smoke spread
BM TRADA Product Assessor Simon Bailey highlights the importance of understanding fire and smoke control within buildings.
Article from the TRADA Timber Industry Yearbook 2015
01/01/2015 | Magazine Article
Timber industry unites behind Fire Door Safety Week
Spreading the message about the importance of fire doors should not be a once-a-year event. Hannah Mansell reports on the progress made in 2016 and what more can be done in 2017.
Article from Timber 2017 Industry Yearbook
01/03/2017 | Magazine Article
