Fire doors with glass or steel are a critical part of any building’s fire safety strategy, offering a robust line of defence in the event of an emergency. Whether installed in a commercial property or residential development, fire rated glass doors require regular maintenance to ensure they function effectively when it matters most.
Neglecting the upkeep of these essential safety components can lead to non-compliance with building regulations and, more importantly, put lives at risk. In this article, we’ll explore key maintenance tips to help you keep your glass fire doors or steel fire doors in peak condition over the long term.
1. Regularly Inspect Fire Doors
The first step to maintaining fire doors with glass or steel is to carry out regular inspections. Fire doors are subject to wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas. You should look for:
- Gaps between the door and the frame.
- Damage to the door, frame, or surrounding wall.
- Issues with glazing, seals, or vision panels.
- Functionality of handles, latches, and hinges.
While daily visual checks can be done by staff, a more thorough inspection should be carried out by a trained professional at least every six months.
2. Check Intumescent and Smoke Seals
One of the most important components of any internal fire door is the intumescent seal. These seals expand in the presence of heat, blocking smoke and fire from passing through gaps. Smoke seals help contain smoke, which is often more dangerous than flames in the early stages of a fire.
Check that the seals are intact, continuous, and securely fitted in the groove. If damaged, they must be replaced immediately.
3. Test the Door’s Closing Mechanism
A fire rated glass door must close fully and securely on its own without the need for pushing or slamming. Ensure that:
- The door self-closes from any open position.
- The closing speed is not too fast or too slow.
- The latch engages fully with the strike plate.
Malfunctioning door closers should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible to maintain compliance and safety.
4. Keep the Door Clear of Obstructions
It may seem obvious, but internal fire doors are sometimes held open with wedges, doorstops, or furniture, which is a serious fire safety hazard. Unless the fire door is fitted with an automatic hold-open device that releases when a fire alarm sounds, it should remain closed.
Regularly remind staff or building occupants of this requirement as part of your overall fire safety protocol.
5. Maintain Glass Panels
Glass fire doors add style and light to interior spaces, but their maintenance is just as important as their solid steel counterparts. Ensure that all glazing is fire-rated and that no cracks or chips are present. Damaged fire-rated glass compromises the door’s performance and must be replaced with certified materials.
6. Schedule Professional Servicing
Although you can handle basic checks yourself, working with experienced fire door specialists ensures that every component, including locks, closers, hinges, and seals, is compliant and fully operational.
At Doors of Steel, we provide bespoke fire doors with glass or steel that combine safety, style, and long-term durability.
Enhance Your Space Without Compromising Safety
Looking to combine safety with design? Explore our internal steel and black glass doors, internal glass partitions, and modern glass sliding doors, all perfect for contemporary commercial and residential interiors.
Properly maintained steel fire doors and glass fire doors offer more than peace of mind – they’re a legal requirement and a life-saving feature. Make maintenance a routine part of your safety plan, and your fire doors will continue to perform when it matters most.