5 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Fire-Rated Door

 

Choosing the right fire-rated door isn’t just about ticking a safety checkbox; it’s about ensuring reliable protection, long-term performance, and compliance with Singapore’s fire safety standards. When protecting your home or business, fire-rated doors are more than just an upgrade; they're necessary. Here are five critical mistakes to avoid during your selection process:

1. Not Verifying Certification, Rating Duration & Material Quality

The Mistake: Skipping key checks like fire certification, choosing the wrong fire rating, or opting for low-quality materials.

Why It Matters:
These three elements are the core of what makes a fire-rated door truly protective:

  • Certification: Always ensure the door is tested and certified by recognized authorities, like SETSCO-approved.
  • Fire Duration: Common fire ratings include 30-60 minutes. Choose based on your property’s safety requirements.
  • Material Quality: Cheap doors might warp or fail during a fire. Look for solid-core materials with reliable fire-resistant properties.

Missing out on these essentials may leave your property vulnerable and non-compliant with fire safety regulations.

 

2. Incorrect Measurements, Door Frame Issues & Poor Installation

The Mistake: Assuming a standard door will fit all openings or letting non-specialists handle installation.

Why It Matters:

  • Every home is different. Whether you're replacing an existing door or installing a new one, taking precise measurements is critical. A misfit door can leave gaps that allow Fire to pass through, defeating its purpose.
  • Door frame matters too. A fire-rated door must be paired with a fire-rated door frame, often made of solid hardwood with fire-resistant properties. Using a regular or damaged frame can cause the door to fail in a fire test or a real-life situation.
  • Installation isn't just about hanging the door. It requires correct alignment, proper sealing, and fire-rated accessories
  • Improper installation may result in:
    • Rattling doors
    • Excessive gaps
    • Fire leaks

Always get your door measured by professionals, ensure the frame is compatible and fire-rated, and insist on expert installation.

 

3. Ignoring Warranty Can Cost You Later

The Mistake: Buying a fire-rated door without checking the warranty terms.

Why It Matters:
A warranty isn't just a bonus—it's a sign of product quality and the supplier’s confidence. Ignoring warranty coverage can leave you with no support if the door warps, fails inspection, or if the hardware malfunctions. Without a warranty, any future repair or replacement costs will come straight out of your pocket.

Always choose a supplier that offers a clear warranty on the door along with sales support.

 

4. Using Non-Fire-Rated Accessories

The Mistake: Installing a regular digital lock or door closers on a certified fire-rated door.

Why It Matters:
Fire-rated doors are only effective if all components, including digital locks and door closers, are also fire-rated. Non-compliant accessories can melt, fail, or prevent the door from closing properly during a fire, putting lives and property at risk.

For example, a standard digital lock may malfunction under heat, while a fire-rated digital lock is designed to withstand high temperatures and maintain door integrity.

Always confirm that the accessory must be fire-resistant to avoid safety issues.

 

5. Choosing Style Over Function—Without Exploring Better Options

Some buyers avoid fire-rated doors, thinking they’ll look plain or industrial.

  • The truth is, modern fire-rated doors come in designer laminate finishes, woodgrain textures, and trendy tones.
  • These doors can match your interior while still meeting strict safety standards.

Don't sacrifice safety for looks; explore your options before making a choice.

Most importantly, ensure that the door thickness falls between 40 to 45 mm, as this is the standard range required for effective fire resistance and certification. Still unsure which fire-rated door suits your home or office? Speak to our team at Laminate Door Pte Ltd We offer SETSCO-certified doors, free installation, free delivery, and stylish designs with proven Resistance to Fire.

 

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