How Many Hinges Should a Fire Door Have?
Fire doors are a critical part of a buildings fire safety system, designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke and provide safe escape routes. Ensuring these doors are installed and maintained correctly, including the hinges, is crucial to maintaining their effectiveness.
Importance of Proper Hinge Placement for Fire Doors
Hinges play a vital role in the structural integrity and functionality of fire doors. Improper hinge placement or using the wrong type of hinges can compromise the doors ability to remain secure under extreme heat and pressure. Proper hinge alignment ensures the fire door closes fully and seals properly, a key factor in containing fire and smoke.
Regulatory Standards for Fire Door Hinges
Fire doors and their hardware must comply with strict regulatory standards to ensure safety. In the UK, BS EN 1935 is the standard used for hinges. CE Marked and tested hinges are used on fire - resistant doors. Key requirements include:
- Number of Hinges: Most fire doors require at least 3 hinges to distribute the weight evenly and withstand high temperatures.
- Material: Hinges must be made from fire - resistant materials, such as steel or stainless steel.
- CE Marking: Hinges should be tested and certified for use on fire doors, ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations.
Intumescent: Hinges must be used with the correct intumescent.
Types of Hinges Suitable for Fire Doors
Choosing the right hinge is essential for fire door performance. Here are some common options:
- Ball Bearing Hinges: Durable and smooth-operating, ideal for heavy fire doors.
- Grade 13 Hinges: Required for most fire doors, offering high load-bearing capacity and fire resistance.
- Concealed Hinges: Provide a sleek aesthetic while maintaining fire door compliance.
- Self Lubricating Hinges: Reduce maintenance needs and are suitable for high traffic areas.
Always ensure hinges are fire rated, used with intumescent and are compliant with the doors certification.
Step by Step Guide to Installing Hinges on a Fire Door
Correct installation is as important as selecting the right hinges. Follow these steps to ensure compliance and functionality.
Measuring & Marking
Measure the Door Frame: Determine the position for the hinges, typically with the top hinge 150 mm from the top of the door, the bottom hinge 200 mm from the bottom of the door, and the middle hinge equidistant between them.
Mark the Hinge Placement: Use a pencil and straight edge to mark where the hinges will be mortised into the door and frame.
Installing the Hinges
Cut the Hinge Recesses: Use a chisel or router to create recesses for the hinges in the door and frame. Ensure the depth matches the hinge leaf thickness for a flush fit.
Attach the Hinges: Secure the hinges to the door using fire-rated screws, ensuring they are tightly fitted. Repeat the process for the frame.
Test the Fit: Hang the door on the frame and check for smooth opening and closing. Make adjustments if necessary to ensure proper alignment.
FAQ’s
How many hinges are needed for a fire door?
Most fire doors require three hinges to provide sufficient support and meet regulatory standards. This ensures the door operates smoothly and withstands the stresses of a fire.
What type of hinges should be used on a fire door?
Fire doors require fire-rated hinges that comply with BS EN 1935 standards. Grade 13 ball-bearing hinges made from steel or stainless steel are commonly used. Hinges should be CE marked and used with the correct intumescent.
Are three hinges required for all fire doors?
While three hinges are standard, the specific number may vary based on the door's weight and size. Always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Fire doors save lives, but only if installed and maintained correctly. Ensuring proper hinge selection and placement is a simple yet crucial step in safeguarding your building's occupants. For expert advice or quality fire door hardware, feel free to reach out to SDS London.
