How to Upgrade Fire Doors

Fit 0.16-inch by 0.40-inch intumescent strips along the inner grooves of the fire door frame to produce a tight seal in high temperatures and prevent flames passing for half an hour (FD30 integrity). Use fire resistant glue to bond the strips to the timber.

Aim to make the strip as flat and neat as possible to withstand temperatures of up to 200 degrees Celsius, which is common during a house fire burning 10-minutes, according to Fire Safe.

Add a second intumescent strip on the top of the first to create a fire door which can prevent flames passing for an hour (FD60 integrity).

Create a cold smoke seal. Encase a blade or brush seal in poly vinyl chloride, a plastic which is highly resistant to fire because it contains over 50 percent chlorine, according to PVC. Fit cold smoke seals into the leaf edge or frame of each fire door to prevent the passage of smoke.

Label fire doors with a tamper-proof, color-coded sticker or drill a small plug into the edge of the door to show they are fire resistant. This will help building inspectors certify that fire doors are identified correctly.

Measure the position of a self-closing hinge on the back of the fire door using a ruler. Use an electric drill to create holes. Use wood screws to attach the hinge to the door.

Ensure every fire door remains shut at all times for maximum safety benefits. Check the hinge works regularly to close the door if it is opened. Spray lightly with lubricating oil and wipe clean with a dry cloth to avoid rust build up which may hinder performance.