7 Common Fire Door Problems & How to Ensure Compliance

7 Common Fire Door Problems and How to Avoid Them

Fire doors are essential for fire safety compliance and protecting lives and property. However, even the best fire doors can fail if issues occur during installation, modification, or maintenance. Here are 7 common fire door problems and tips to ensure compliance with NZS 4520:2010.

1. Incorrect Floor Gaps

To maintain optimal fire safety, fire doors must have precise floor clearances. The gap between the finished floor and the door underside should be no more than 10mm, with a minimum of 3mm. These regulated gaps improve fire resistance, ensuring the door functions effectively during an emergency.

2. Incorrect Hardware

Using non-compliant hardware can compromise a fire door’s effectiveness. Untested hinges, locks, or latches may prevent the door from performing correctly, leading to:

• Non-compliance with fire safety regulations

• Invalid fire tag certification

• Increased risk of fire spread

• Legal or insurance complications

Always use manufacturer-approved hardware to maintain safety and compliance.

3. Altering Fire Doors Without Manufacturer Approval

Any modifications after manufacture, such as cutting, drilling, or adding non-compliant hardware, must have prior manufacturer approval. Unauthorized changes can reduce fire resistance, making the door unsafe and non-compliant according to NZS 4520:2010.

4. Incorrect Installation

Proper installation is critical for fire door performance. Common installation issues include:

• Excessive gaps and air leaks

• Failure to self-close

• Reduced fire resistance

Incorrectly installed doors not only compromise safety but also increase maintenance costs and risk regulatory violations. A correctly installed door contains fire and smoke, protects occupants, and minimizes property damage.

5. Wall Type and Door Not a Tested & Approved System

A fire door must be installed within a tested and approved wall system. If the wall structure is not rated or compliant, the door’s fire resistance can be compromised. Always choose certified wall and door systems for full compliance and optimal performance.

6. Incorrect Wedging Gaps

The gap between the fire door frame and wall, known as the wedging gap, affects fire resistance and compliance. Ensure all gaps adhere to manufacturer-approved specifications to maintain effectiveness.

7. Lack of Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Routine inspections every six months are critical to ensure doors remain fully functional and compliant. Without checks, issues like loose hinges, misaligned latches, faulty closers, or worn seals can go unnoticed. Regular maintenance preserves fire resistance, prevents smoke and fire spread, and ensures compliance with NZS 4520:2010.

Conclusion

Proper fire door installation, hardware selection, and regular maintenance are essential to protect lives, property, and ensure regulatory compliance. At Soteria Doors, we specialize in fire door solutions that meet NZ standards, giving you peace of mind and a safer environment.

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