QUICK GUIDE: FIRE DOORS

Building Regulations state that for all houses over two storeys high, every door leading from a habitable room to a stairwell must be fire rated, aside from toilets or bathrooms. If you have an internal garage, a fire door is also required where this joins the home. “If you are in a bungalow, for instance, there’s less likelihood of needing fire doors for rooms other than the garage,” says Elizabeth, “but in most houses there is a legal requirement for fire doors. If you are unsure, your Building Regs officer or builder will be able to tell you what you need.”

Many designs are available in fire rated guises, so you should be able to keep to your aesthetic while still ensuring your door has the required protective materials.

Remember that if you purchase fire doors, all the ironmongery, frames and seals also have to be certified. It’s really important to note that these doors won’t perform properly if they have been incorrectly fitted – so make sure you use an experienced joiner when you install them.