At Soteria Doors, we regularly receive questions from architects, builders, specifiers and building professionals about fire-rated doors, installation, compliance and product selection.
To help answer these questions, we’re introducing You Ask, We Answer, a monthly series providing practical information and technical guidance on some of the most common questions we receive.
Our aim is simple: to help you make informed decisions, avoid common mistakes and ensure the right fire door solutions are specified and installed.
Can a fire-rated door be cut down to fit an opening?
The short answer: It depends on the door’s tested and approved specifications.
Fire-rated doors are designed and tested to meet specific fire resistance requirements. They form part of a complete fire-rated doorset, which typically includes the door leaf, frame, hinges, seals, hardware and other specified components.
Modifying any of these components without appropriate approval can affect the doorset’s fire resistance and compliance.
What should you consider?
1. Manufacturer’s specifications
Some fire-rated doors may permit limited trimming or adjustment, but only within the manufacturer’s approved specifications. Not all fire-rated doors can be modified.
2. Fire rating and compliance
A fire-rated doorset must meet the applicable fire resistance requirements. Unauthorised modifications could compromise its performance and compliance.
3. Correct sizing and installation
Ideally, fire doors should be specified and ordered to suit the required opening dimensions. This reduces the need for onsite modifications and helps ensure correct installation.
4. Seek technical advice before making changes
If a fire-rated door needs adjusting, always check with the manufacturer or an appropriately qualified fire door specialist before proceeding.
Soteria’s recommendation
Fire door compliance should never be compromised by onsite modifications.
Where possible, ensure door dimensions and specifications are confirmed early in the design and construction process.
The Soteria Doors team can provide guidance on appropriate door sizing, specification and compliant solutions for your project.
Have a question about fire doors?
Contact the Soteria team. Your question could feature in an upcoming edition of You Ask, We Answer.