A fire rated wood door (also known as a fire rated door) is a door designed to resist a specific time under extreme conditions of fire, temperature and smoke in case of a fire inside a building. Its main purpose is to prevent the spread of fire and smoke, thus protecting human lives and reducing the risk of damage or loss to the building.
These doors are constructed with a central core of fire-resistant material, surrounded by fire-resistant frames, an HDF veneer, and finally, a wood or plastic laminated veneer.
- Fire Resistance Certification: The door must have a certification issued by an accredited laboratory confirming that it has undergone rigorous testing under international standards, such as NFPA 80 or UL10C.
- Perimeter Seals and Accessories: The door must be equipped with intumescent perimeter seals (strip of material around the door that expands with heat and closes gaps), guillotines, and other devices that prevent the passage of smoke.
- Fire Resistant Hardware: All hardware used on the door must be fire resistant and approved (listed) for use on fire doors.
- Frames: Must have fire resistant certifications, such as the American WHI: 20min, 90min, neutral pressure and positive pressure Cat A and B or the European IFC: 30min and 60min.
The sum of these elements are essential to effectively prevent the spread of fire.
A fire certification is granted by recognized pillars in the construction industry, such as Intertek, Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or Warnock Hersey Intertek (WHI). Intertek is recognized worldwide for holding extensive global accreditations and recognitions in fire door testing and certification services, among the most well-known are: 20, 45, 60 and 90 minutes fire resistance.
Certified wood fire doors not only offer an effective solution to resist fire and heat, but also provide aesthetic integration with the interior design of any building. Certified wood fire doors are an ideal combination of safety and style for any building. These doors not only resist high temperatures and prevent the spread of fire, but also integrate harmoniously with the interior design of the space. Undoubtedly, they represent one of the best investments in a hotel environment, protecting both people and real estate in case of an emergency.
The correct selection and installation of these doors is essential to ensure the safety and protection of all occupants in case of fire. Be sure to rely on expert advice to make informed decisions and maintain a safe and secure environment.