What Fire Door Rating Do I Need?

Fire Door Ratings

• FD30: 30 minutes fire resistance. Standard for domestic houses with 3+ storeys, loft conversions, and between garage and house
• FD30S: FD30 plus cold smoke seal. Required where smoke protection is needed
• FD60: 60 minutes fire resistance. Flats, communal areas, means of escape in buildings over 18m
• FD60S: FD60 plus cold smoke seal. Flat entrance doors (post-Grenfell regulation)
• FD90 / FD120: Commercial and high-risk applications

Where Fire Doors Are Required (Domestic)

• Loft conversion: FD30S on all doors in the escape route (new stairway to front door)
• 3-storey houses: FD30 on all habitable rooms opening onto the stairway
• Garage to house: FD30 minimum (some Building Control require FD30S)
• Flat entrance: FD30S minimum. Post-2022: many require FD60S
• Communal corridors in flats: FD30S or FD60S depending on building height

Essential Components

• Intumescent strip: Expands in heat to seal the gap between door and frame
• Cold smoke seal: Prevents smoke passing through gaps (the “S” in FD30S)
• Self-closing device: Required on all fire doors
• Correct frame: Must be fire-rated to match the door
• Hinges: 3 × CE-marked fire-rated hinges per door
• Glazing: Must be fire-rated glass with intumescent glazing tape

Cost Guide

• FD30 door (supply only): £80–200 (flush), £150–400 (panelled)
• FD60 door: £150–350 (flush), £250–500 (panelled)
• Intumescent strip + smoke seal kit: £10–25
• Overhead door closer: £15–50

Important Note

Fire doors must not be modified (trimmed, drilled for locks, or fitted with non-rated hardware) without re-certification. Always consult Building Control for specific requirements. These are general guidelines — individual projects may have additional requirements under Building Regulations Part B.