Mind the Gap: Why Proper Door Gaps Are Essential for Fire Safety

Fire safety is no joke. Whether you're in a bustling office block or a quiet residential building, ensuring that fire doors are up to scratch is crucial. One key aspect often overlooked is the gap between the door leaf and the frame. This isn't just a minor detail—it's a potential lifesaver. So, let’s dive into why these gaps matter, how to measure them, and why our BM TRADA accredited engineers are the best people for the job.

Why Size Matters

When it comes to fire doors, size does matter. The gap size between the door leaf and the frame needs to be just right. Too wide, and you risk letting smoke and fire through. Too narrow, and the door might not close properly, compromising its function.

Ideal Measurements:

• Sides and Top: 2 to 4 mm
• Bottom: 8 to 10 mm (without a threshold seal) or 2 to 4 mm (with a threshold seal)

These specific measurements ensure that the door can seal effectively during a fire, containing flames and smoke.

Tools of the Trade

Measuring these gaps accurately isn't a job for the naked eye. Here's what you need:

• Gap Gauge/Feeler Gauge: These tools are essential for checking the distance between the door leaf and the frame.
• Measuring Tape or Ruler: Good for a quick check, especially at the bottom of the door.
• Digital Callipers: For those who prefer precision, digital callipers can give an exact measurement.

A Brief History Lesson

You might be wondering, when did we start paying so much attention to door gaps? The UK, in particular, saw significant changes following major incidents like the 1960s Ronan Point disaster, which led to tighter building regulations and a focus on fire containment.

By the 1980s, standards like BS 8214 in the UK began to specify exact requirements for fire door installations, including those all-important gaps. These regulations have evolved, but the core principle remains: well-fitted fire doors save lives.

Measuring Up

While it's helpful to know how to measure these gaps yourself, it’s always best to rely on professionals for something this critical. That’s where we come in.

Our BM TRADA accredited engineers use precision tools and years of experience to ensure your fire doors meet all necessary standards.

Why It’s Crucial

Proper gaps are about more than just passing inspections. They're a critical part of the door's performance in an actual fire:

• Fire Containment: Intumescent strips around the door expand in heat, sealing the gap and stopping fire and smoke from spreading.
• Smoke Seals: These require small gaps to work effectively, preventing dangerous smoke from moving through the building.
• Door Functionality: Too large a gap and the door won’t stay closed in a fire; too small and it might stick, which is just as bad.

In the UK, adherence to these standards is non-negotiable. Regulations like BS 8214 ensure that fire doors are installed and maintained correctly. Regular inspections and surveys help keep these life-saving barriers in top condition, ready to perform when it matters most.

Choose UK FM Services

While it’s useful to understand the process, ensuring your fire doors are compliant and fully functional is a task best left to the professionals. Our team of BM TRADA accredited engineers specialises in fire door surveys and compliance corrections. We don’t just measure gaps—we ensure your entire fire door system is up to code and ready to protect.

Final Thoughts

Next time you think about fire door safety, remember: mind the gap. Those few millimeters could be the difference between containing a fire and letting it spread. Trust our experts to get it right. Safety never takes a day off, and neither do we. Contact us today at [email protected] or call 020 3371 7488 and ask to speak to one of our sales team.

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