What Makes a Door Fire Rated? Everything You Should Know Before You Buy

Fire safety begins with planning—and one of the most important safety features in any building is a fire-rated door. Whether you’re developing a residential complex, upgrading a commercial facility, or designing a public building, understanding the function and value of fire doors is critical. These specialised doors do more than close off spaces; they help contain fire and smoke, protect evacuation routes, and provide people with the time they need to escape safely. In this guide, we’ll explore how fire doors work, what makes them compliant, and why choosing the right fire doorset matters.

What is a Fire-Rated Door? 

A fire-rated door is engineered to withstand fire for a specified period—commonly 30, 60, or 90 minutes—without allowing it to spread. This protection depends on the door’s materials, construction, and ability to seal off heat and smoke. Fire doors and doorsets include not just the door leaf but also the frame, intumescent seals, hardware, and other components that work as a unit to block fire.

Greenlam Mikasa’s fire-rated doorsets are rigorously tested and certified, combining safety with design elegance. Unlike ordinary doors, they’re built with fire-retardant cores and materials that slow down combustion and smoke infiltration.

Read Also: All You Need to Know About Fire Doorsets

Key Components of Fire Doors and Doorsets

• Door Leaf: The high-density core is typically made of fire-retardant materials like mineral core or engineered wood composites, which maintain structural integrity under heat.
• Frame: The frame must match the fire rating of the leaf and is treated or constructed using fire-retardant materials, such as high-density hardwood or LVL core.
• Intumescent Seals: These expand upon heat exposure to block gaps and prevent smoke or fire from passing through.
• Fire-Rated Hardware: Hinges, locks, closers, and handles must meet fire safety standards and operate effectively during emergencies.

Certifications and Standards to Look For 

Quality fire doorsets carry certifications that prove they’ve passed performance tests. In India, look for compliance with IS 3614 Part 2. Internationally, BS 476 (British Standard) is a benchmark.

• Always ask for third-party certification.
• Look for a permanent label or plate on the door leaf indicating its fire rating and certifying body.
• Review test reports from accredited laboratories to ensure authenticity.

Read Also: Understanding Mikasa’s Fire-rated Doors

Common Types of Fire Doors and Their Applications

• Fire Exit Doors: Designed for evacuation, often installed in corridors, stairwells, and public exits.
• Vision Panel Doors: Feature heat-resistant glass to provide visibility while retaining fire resistance.
• Flush Doors: Clean, solid doors that blend into interiors while offering maximum protection.
• Double Leaf Doors: Used in wide corridors or entry points, especially in hospitals and educational buildings.

How to Identify a Quality Fire-Rated Door Before Buying

• Ask for Certification: Confirm the door meets national or international testing standards.
• Check the Complete Set: Ensure the frame and hardware match the leaf’s fire rating.
• Read the Specifications: Reputable manufacturers like Mikasa provide detailed documentation.
• Inspect the Seals: Intumescent strips must be properly embedded and continuous around the perimeter.

Read Also: Answering 5 FAQs about Fire Rated Doorsets

Fire Doors and Compliance in Building Projects 

Regulations dictate where fire-rated doors are required—these vary by country and type of building. For example:

• Residential complexes require fire-retardant doors in corridors and stairwells.
• Commercial buildings often mandate fire exit doors in designated escape paths.
• Hospitality and healthcare sectors demand high-spec fire-rated doorsets for intensive-use areas.

Greenlam Mikasa supports compliance by offering ready-to-install fire doors and doorsets that meet project-specific safety codes.

Maintenance and Inspection of Fire Doors 

Even the best fire doors lose effectiveness without proper upkeep. Building managers and owners must schedule routine inspections to ensure components remain intact and functional.

• Check for gaps, warping, or missing seals.
• Test door closers and latches.
• Replace damaged or outdated hardware with certified fire-rated alternatives.

Routine maintenance ensures fire-retardant doors continue to perform when needed most.

About Mikasa Doors 

Mikasa Doors is a premium brand by Greenlam Industries, offering factory-finished wooden doors and doorsets that blend engineering precision with aesthetic excellence. Known for its performance-driven design, Mikasa provides customised door solutions for residential, commercial, and institutional spaces, with an emphasis on durability, safety, and visual appeal. Our fire doors and doorsets are engineered with precision, tested to global standards, and designed to integrate beautifully into modern interiors. Whether you’re specifying fire exit doors for a commercial site or need a fire-retardant door for a residential project, Mikasa offers trusted solutions. Call 1800 833 0004 or email info@mikasadoors.com to discuss your requirements and find the perfect doors for your home today! You can also visit our contact form, and we will get back to you at the earliest.