Fire Door Maintenance & Repair

Fire doors should be inspected at least every 6 months as recommended by the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Fire Door Alliance. However, doors in high-traffic areas or buildings with the top storey above 11m in height require more frequent checks. In these buildings, flat entrance fire doors must be checked at least every 12 months, while fire doors in communal areas should be checked at least every 3 months.

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the ‘Responsible Person’ or ‘Accountable Person’ for the building is legally responsible for ensuring fire doors are adequately maintained. This includes undertaking risk assessments, ensuring fire door equipment is maintained in proper working order, and keeping up to date with regulations.

You should maintain detailed records of all fire door inspections, maintenance activities, and repairs. Documentation should include:

• Dates of inspections
• Details of any issues identified
• Actions taken to resolve issues
• Confirmation that repairs have been completed
• Certificates of compliance, where applicable

These records may be required during fire safety audits and can be crucial in demonstrating compliance with regulations.

Common fire door maintenance issues include:

• Gaps that are too wide between the door and frame
• Damaged or missing intumescent seals
• Loose or damaged hinges
• Faulty self-closing devices
• Damaged door surfaces (cracks, holes, or warping)
• Inappropriate modifications (such as cat flaps or vents)
• Issues with glazing (if present)
• Doors being wedged open

Fire door closers can be adjusted to control the closing speed, preventing the door from slamming while still ensuring it closes completely and reliably. Many self-closing devices have a latching action that closes the door quickly at first and then slows down for the last few inches. It’s advisable to have fire door closers maintained and adjusted by a competent person rather than attempting DIY adjustments.

Fire doors should never be propped or wedged open, as this would prevent them from closing in the event of a fire. However, you can legally hold fire doors open by installing approved fire door holders (retainers). These devices hold the door open but automatically release when the fire alarm sounds, allowing the door to close. This solution complies with regulations while providing improved access and ventilation.

Regular maintenance of fire door hardware includes:

• Lubricating moving parts s,uch as hinges and closers, to prevent wear
• Ensuring all screws and fixings are tight
• Checking that closers operate correctly and close the door completely from any position
• Verifying that locks and latches engage properly

Use only appropriate lubricants that won’t compromise fire performance.

A fire door should be repaired when:

• The damage is minor and doesn’t compromise the door’s integrity
• Components like seals, hinges, or closers need replacement
• Gaps can be adjusted to meet requirements

A fire door should be replaced when:

• There is significant structural damage to the door leaf
• The door has been modified inappropriately (e.g., cat flaps, vents)
• The door no longer complies with current regulations
• Certification cannot be verified
• The damage is beyond economical repair

Minor repairs like replacing seals or adjusting hinges can potentially be done by a competent person, but it’s generally recommended to use certified professionals for fire door repairs. Incorrect repairs can compromise the door’s fire resistance and might invalidate certification or insurance. Always consult the door manufacturer’s guidance before attempting any repairs.

There is no set lifespan for a fire door. Their longevity depends on usage, location, and maintenance. With proper care and regular inspections, fire doors can remain effective for many years. However, fire doors should always comply with the latest regulations, so updates to standards might necessitate replacement even if the door appears in good condition.

Glazing in fire doors must be fire-rated and can only be replaced with appropriate fire-resistant glass. This should be done by qualified professionals as improper glazing can severely compromise the door’s fire resistance. If the glazing is damaged, it should be replaced immediately, and the seals around the glazing must remain intact.

Professional fire door specialists have:

• Training and certification in fire door regulations
• Experience in identifying issues that may not be obvious
• Knowledge of current standards and requirements
• Access to appropriate replacement parts and materials
• The ability to provide certification for their work
• Insurance to cover their workmanship

The cost of professional fire door maintenance varies depending on:

• Number of doors requiring inspection
• Location and accessibility
• Extent of repairs needed
• Frequency of maintenance programme

Regular maintenance is generally more cost-effective than addressing major issues that develop due to neglect. Contact our team today for a tailored quote based on your specific requirements.