Fire Door Furniture and Ironmongery

What fire door furniture do I need for my building?

The type of fire door furniture you need depends on your building's layout, occupancy and fire safety requirements. Almost all fire doors should have self-closing mechanisms (with very few exceptions). Heavy-traffic areas demand robust hardware that can withstand constant use without compromising safety performance. The fire door furniture should always have a fire rating that matches the fire door it is being fitted to (which will be determined in the fire risk assessment).

Which fire door ironmongery meets current regulations?

All fire door ironmongery must carry CE marking and meet BS EN standards. Look for products tested to BS EN 1634-1 for fire resistance and BS EN 1935 for hinges. Door closers need BS EN 1154 certification, and handles must comply with BS EN 1906. These standards ensure your hardware will perform correctly during a fire emergency.

How do I choose the right fire door closer?

Fire door closers are available in three types: overhead, concealed, and floor-spring. Overhead closers are suitable for most applications and offer adjustable closing forces. Concealed closers provide a clean aesthetic for modern buildings. Floor springs are ideal for heavy doors or when overhead mounting isn't possible. Consider the weight, width, and frequency of use when selecting your closer.

What's the difference between fire door handles and standard handles?

Each fire door handle should have a fire rating - that means it has been performance tested to resist fire for a certain length of time. The fire rating should match the rating of the fire door it is going on to.

Can I fit fire door furniture myself?

Fire door furniture installation requires precision and a thorough understanding of fire safety regulations. Incorrect fitting can void your door's fire rating and create serious safety risks. We recommend using certified installers who are familiar with the specific requirements for fire door hardware. Poor installation is one of the leading causes of fire door failure during emergencies.

Which fire door hinges should I choose?

Fire door hinges must carry the same fire rating as your door. Ball bearing hinges handle heavy use better than plain bearing types. Stainless steel hinges resist corrosion in damp environments. Three hinges are standard for most doors, but heavy or tall doors may need four. Check the manufacturer's specifications for weight limits and fire ratings.

How often should fire door ironmongery be inspected?

Fire door ironmongery needs regular inspection to ensure continued performance. Check door closers monthly for proper closing action and adjust if needed. Inspect hinges for wear, corrosion, or damage every six months. Annual professional inspections help identify issues before they become safety hazards. Keep records of all inspections and maintenance work.

Fire door furniture and ironmongery isn't just about compliance – it's about protecting the people who matter to you. Every component plays a vital role in your building's fire safety strategy. Choose wisely, fit correctly, and maintain regularly to ensure your fire doors are ready when needed most.

Ready to upgrade your fire door hardware? Browse our complete range of certified fire door furniture and ironmongery, or contact our fire safety experts for personalised advice on your specific requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need intumescent backing when fitting fire door hinges?

Yes, you should always fit intumescent backing material underneath fire door hinges. The cut-out for the hinge creates a weak point in the fire protection, and intumescent backing seals any gaps to prevent fire and smoke spread. Always refer to the manufacturer's specifications.

Can I use the same pull handle on timber, metal, and glass fire doors?

Most fire-rated pull handles are designed to work across all three door types. Briton's 4700 series handles come with universal fixing kits that accommodate timber, metal, or glass doors while maintaining fire integrity.

What's included in a fire door furniture kit?

Fire door furniture kits contain all the essential components for FD30 or FD60 doors. This includes fire-rated handles, locks, closers, hinges, and cylinders – everything needed to ensure your fire door functions correctly and maintains its fire rating.

Are foot-operated door openers fire-rated?

The DecaMed foot-operated door openers are designed for hygiene purposes and don't compromise fire door integrity. However, they're primarily hygiene solutions rather than fire safety products, so check compatibility with your specific fire door requirements.

Why do vacant properties need letterbox blanking plates?

Many insurance companies won't cover claims where unoccupied buildings have unprotected letterboxes. Letterbox blanking plates prevent arson and vandalism through the letterbox opening, which is often a contractual requirement for vacant property insurance.