10 Things You Should Check on Fire-Rated Doors and Windows

Don’t assume your fire-rated doors and windows are doing their job. They might look intact, but without regular checks, you could be one fault away from disaster. Use this expert-backed checklist to verify compliance, safety, and long-term performance—and stay ahead of legal, design, and safety requirements.

Fire Safety Isn’t Set and Forget

You might think installing fire-rated doors and windows is enough. It’s not. Fire safety compliance depends on routine inspections, and even the best fire-rated glass doors or steel fire doors degrade over time. If you’re an architect, designer, contractor, or property owner, you’re responsible for making sure these systems perform when it counts.

This how-to guide walks you through what to check on fire-rated doors and windows—and why it matters.

1. Certification Labels: Start With the Basics

If it doesn’t have a valid certification, it’s not fire-rated. You should look for visible, intact certification labels such as EN 16034 or BS 476. Confirm the fire rating duration (EI30, EI60, EI90, etc.), and make sure the label hasn’t been tampered with or damaged. Without proper certification, the door or window may fail to meet fire safety standards in the UK.

2. Fire-Rated Glass Integrity

Your fire-rated windows must maintain integrity under heat and impact. Inspect the glass closely for cracks, chips, or signs of delamination. Confirm that there’s an intumescent interlayer in place, and check all seals for any gaps or deterioration. Fire-rated glass often looks like standard glazing—never assume it’s compliant without proper verification.

3. Door Integrity and Damage

A steel fire door must be free from visible damage to work correctly. Look out for dents, warping, rust, or corrosion on the door leaf. Check that the frame is properly aligned and fixed. Open and close the door completely—any resistance could signal a serious issue. A dented or warped door may not seal correctly during a fire.

4. Self-Closing Mechanism

If the door doesn’t close automatically, it fails the most basic safety function. Make sure the self-closing hardware is working properly. Let the door close naturally from a 90-degree angle and observe whether it latches securely. If not, the mechanism needs to be adjusted or replaced. According to BS EN 1154, door closers on fire-rated doors must operate without manual force.

5. Smoke Seals and Intumescent Strips

Smoke seals and intumescent strips are critical for stopping smoke and flames from spreading. Examine the intumescent strips for cracks, gaps, or detachment. Check the cold smoke seals to make sure they’re intact and functioning. Any missing or worn components must be replaced immediately. Smoke inhalation is a leading cause of death in fires—these seals buy time and save lives.

6. Door Gaps and Clearances

Too much of a gap around a fire door means fire and smoke can breach the barrier. Measure the gaps around the door using feeler gauges or shims and ensure they’re within manufacturer specifications. Pay close attention to the top, sides, and bottom edges. According to UK standards, clearances should not exceed 3mm on the top and sides, and 8mm at the bottom.

7. Hinges and Fixings

Loose or substandard hinges compromise the entire fire-rated assembly. Use only steel hinges with the correct intumescent pads, and make sure all screws and bolts are tight. Replace any rusted, damaged, or incorrect fixings. Using compliant hardware isn’t optional—it’s a requirement.

8. Locks, Latches, and Handles

All locking mechanisms must function under pressure. Operate every latch and lock, and confirm that the exit hardware is fire-rated and appropriate for the door. Avoid retrofitted components that haven’t been tested with the complete door assembly—they can void certification. If you’re specifying hardware as an architect or designer, make sure it matches the test evidence.

9. Fire-Rated Window Frames

Fire-rated windows often get less attention but pose the same level of risk. Check that the frame materials haven’t degraded over time. Confirm that the junctions between the frame and the wall are fully sealed and that any expansion joints remain flexible and secure. Keep in mind that fire-rated windows must be part of a tested assembly; mixing components can lead to failure.

10. Maintenance Records and Inspection Logs

If it’s not documented, it didn’t happen. Keep a clear and detailed log of all inspections, repairs, and updates. Include information such as certification, installation dates, and any past issues. Using digital tools or QR-coded labels can streamline this process. AtoZ Design and Glass Ltd offers inspection support and digital documentation options to help you stay compliant.

Conclusion:

A fire-rated door or window only works when properly maintained. Regular inspections reduce liability, protect lives, and keep your building compliant with UK fire safety standards.

At AtoZ Design and Glass Ltd, we don’t just install certified fire-rated systems—we help you keep them compliant for life.

Ready for a safety inspection or upgrade? Contact AtoZ Design and Glass Ltd today.