Installing fire rated doors may seem like a simple upgrade, but this addition can provide priceless protection and peace of mind. In this post, we'll look at who needs fire rated doors, their key benefits, and tips for choosing the right one.
Who Needs Fire Rated Doors?
In Singapore, it's required by law that all HDB flats have fire rated main entrance doors. These provide an added layer of safety and slow the spread of fire.
Specifically, HDB flats with entrances within 3 meters of a lobby or staircase must have fire rated doors.
For condos and other residences, having a fire rated main door is not mandatory but highly recommended.
Fire rated doors are essential for containing fires and preventing them from spreading rapidly throughout the home. They provide vital extra time for residents to evacuate safely.
The Benefits of Fire Rated Doors
Fire rated doors are constructed with unique materials that make them more resistant to fire. They typically provide 30-60 minutes of protection before the fire can spread past the door.
Here are some of the key advantages fire rated doors offer:
- Contain fires -Fire rated doors dramatically slow the spread of flames, heat, and smoke. This containment protects other areas of the home for longer.
- Provide escape time - Those extra minutes can make a huge difference in allowing residents to safely evacuate the unit. This is especially critical for mobility-challenged individuals.
- Limits or blocks spreading of smoke inhalation -Fire rated doors significantly reduce smoke penetrating outside; the function also depends on the door quality you buy!
- It complies with Flat regulations -A certified fire rated door prevents you from violating any HDB, BTO, or condo rules or getting into trouble for lacking this essential fire safety feature.
- You can choose a certified door - Opt for a fire rated door that is tested and certified to comply with Singapore regulations and standards. This ensures the door is legal and provides assured fire resistance.
Choosing the Right Fire Rated Door
If you're installing a new fire rated door, here are some tips to select the right one:
- Choose a 30 or 60-minute fire rated door: 30 minutes is often suitable for HDB, and BTO flats, while 60 provides extra time in larger homes like condominiums, Landed houses.
- Select proper dimensions: Standard HDB doors are 3ft x 7ft, while condo/landed homes often use 4ft x 7ft.
- Look for a certified product: Ensure the door is tested and certified to meet Singapore standards.
- Consider added features like digital locks or viewers: But verify these are certified not to compromise fire resistance.
- Check installation requirements: Professionals are recommended to correctly install and seal doors.
Invest in a fire rated door for your Peacefulness.
Upgrading to fire rated doors represents a small upfront investment that can pay off exponentially. Protecting our homes and families is a top priority, and fire rated doors provide an added layer of security.
If you're renovating or building a new home, prioritize fire rated doors. Or, if you currently lack this protection, consider replacing your main entrance door. Your peace of mind is priceless.
