Do I Need FD30 or FD60 Fire Doors?

Do I Need FD30 or FD60 Fire Doors?

A Complete Guide for Homeowners and Property Managers

When it comes to fire safety in buildings, few elements are as critical as fire doors. Among the most common types you’ll encounter are FD30 and FD60 fire doors—but what do these ratings mean, and how do you know which one is right for your property?

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between FD30 and FD60 fire doors, where and why you might need each, and how to ensure you’re compliant with UK building regulations.

What Does FD30 and FD60 Mean?

FD30 and FD60 refer to the duration, in minutes, that a fire door can withstand fire and smoke:

• FD30: Provides 30 minutes of fire resistance.

• FD60: Provides 60 minutes of fire resistance.

These doors are tested under strict conditions and must meet BS 476 Part 22 or the more modern BS EN 1634-1 fire resistance standards. The number following “FD” is crucial because it directly relates to how much protection you’re getting.

Why Are Fire Doors Important?

Fire doors serve two primary life-saving purposes:

1. Compartmentalisation – They stop the spread of fire and smoke from one room or area to another.

2. Safe evacuation – They allow occupants time to exit the building safely.

They’re essential in all types of buildings, from residential flats to commercial offices, public buildings, and industrial spaces. The type of door you need depends on the size and layout of the property, occupancy, and how long evacuation might take in the event of a fire.

Where Is FD30 Typically Used?

FD30 fire doors are the most commonly specified in domestic settings, particularly:

• Residential houses with 2 or more storeys where the door leads from a habitable room into a stairwell.

• Flats and apartments, especially between the apartment and the communal corridor.

• Loft conversions, where the staircase becomes part of the escape route.

• Integral garages, where a door connects the garage to the main house.

For most standard-sized homes, FD30 doors are adequate because they provide enough time for occupants to escape before the fire spreads.

When Do You Need FD60 Fire Doors?

FD60 doors are more commonly used in commercial, public, or high-risk environments, such as:

• Larger buildings with longer escape routes.

• Hospitals and care homes, where evacuating vulnerable people may take more time.

• Schools and universities, particularly in high-occupancy areas.

• Industrial buildings where flammable materials are stored.

• Commercial kitchens or server rooms.

• Protected stairwells and riser cupboards in apartment blocks.

In high-rise buildings, FD60 doors are often used in plant rooms, service risers, or lift lobbies to provide extended protection to vertical fire escape routes.

Understanding Building Regulations

England & Wales

Building Regulations Approved Document B outlines where and when fire doors are required. Key points include:

• Dwellinghouses with 3 or more storeys must have FD30 doors on all rooms opening onto the stairwell.

• Flats must have an FD30s door (30 minutes + smoke protection) at the entrance.

• Doors to integral garages should be FD30.

• In non-domestic buildings, the fire strategy or risk assessment will determine whether FD30 or FD60 is appropriate.

Scotland & Northern Ireland

While broadly similar, Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own versions of fire safety guidance (e.g., the Scottish Technical Handbook or NI Building Regulations). Always consult the local code or a fire engineer if in doubt.

Key Differences: FD30 vs FD60

How to Choose the Right One

Ask yourself the following:

1. What type of property is it?

   • A standard home usually only needs FD30 doors.

   • A block of flats or commercial space may require FD60.

2. Where is the door located?

   • Escape routes and plant rooms usually need higher protection.

3. Who occupies the space?

   • If it includes children, elderly, or vulnerable individuals, extra time to evacuate may justify FD60.

4. What’s stored in the area?

   • If the room contains flammable materials or expensive equipment, you may want more protection.

5. Has a fire risk assessment been done?

   • A fire risk assessment will provide clear direction on which fire doors are required.

Other Considerations

Certification Matters

Only buy doors that come with third-party certification such as from BM TRADA or Certifire. The door leaf, frame, ironmongery, seals, and installation must all match the specification.

Installation Quality

A fire door is only effective if installed properly. Gaps around the door should not exceed 3–4mm, and intumescent strips must be continuous.

Maintenance

Fire doors should be inspected every 6 months in most environments and monthly in higher-risk locations (e.g., communal areas in flats).

Cost Comparison

FD60 doors are typically 20–50% more expensive than FD30 doors due to their thicker core, higher performance materials, and additional testing. However, if the risk profile of your building justifies the need, that cost is a small price for safety.

Conclusion

The choice between FD30 and FD60 fire doors ultimately comes down to risk. For most homeowners, FD30 will suffice. However, in buildings with more complex layouts, vulnerable occupants, or higher fire risk, FD60 may be necessary—or even legally required.

To summarise:

• Use FD30 for typical domestic situations.

• Use FD60 in commercial, industrial, or high-risk residential environments.

• Always check local regulations and consult a fire safety professional if unsure.

Fire safety isn’t the place to cut corners. Whether you’re renovating, managing a block of flats, or designing a new build, making the right choice now could save lives later.

Need help selecting or installing certified fire doors? Contact a qualified fire door specialist or joinery manufacturer for advice tailored to your property and local regulations.

Check out our range of Fire Check Doors here.