A Quick Guide on Ratings of UK Fire Doors

Date Posted: 22nd July 2025

At Pendle Doors, we know that choosing the right fire door can feel like a complicated and confusing process. As a trusted door manufacturer in the UK, we’re here to help make it easier. If you’re searching for fire doors in Manchester or across the UK, understanding ratings is the first step to staying compliant and keeping people safe.

What Does FD30, FD60, FD90, or FD120 Mean?

UK fire doors are rated by how long they can resist fire. The most common ratings are:

  • FD30 – Withstands fire for at least 30 minutes
  • FD60 – Protects for at least 60 minutes
  • FD90 – Tested to last 90 minutes
  • FD120 – Offers protection for up to 120 minutes

The higher the number, the longer the door will hold back fire and smoke. These ratings are confirmed through rigorous testing. At Pendle Doors, our fire doors meet or exceed these standards.

FD30 and FD60 are most used in homes, flats, and commercial spaces. FD90 and FD120 are used in high-risk or specialised settings like schools, hospitals, labs, or plant rooms.

Why Ratings Matter for UK Fire Doors

The main purpose of a fire door is to slow down fire and smoke. This gives people time to escape safely and protects the building’s structure. Choosing the right rating means the difference between control and chaos in an emergency.

What Makes a Certified Fire Door?

A proper fire door is more than just a heavy door. It’s a complete system, or doorset, that includes:

  • A tested fire-resistant core
  • Compatible frame and seals
  • Fire-rated hinges, locks, and closers
  • Intumescent strips that expand with heat
  • Smoke seals (often marked with an ‘S’ rating)

Every Pendle Doors product is certified to British and European standards, including BS EN 1634-1. We also hold BM Trada Q-Mark certification for fire doors and enhanced security.

How Do I Choose the Right Rating?

Where the door is installed will guide your decision:

  • Flat Entrances / HMOs – FD30 or FD60
  • Houses with Garages – FD30
  • Commercial Properties – Often FD60 or FD90
  • Healthcare or High-Risk Buildings – FD90 or FD120

Still unsure? Our expert team is on hand to advise. We’ve supplied fire doors in Manchester and beyond for decades, working across sectors including housing, healthcare, and education.

Can Fire Doors Be Visually Appealing?

Yes, they can. At Pendle Doors, safety doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Our fire doors are available in a wide range of finishes, from smooth laminates to rich wood veneers. We offer bespoke options to match your interior or branding needs.

What About Maintenance?

Once installed, fire doors must be maintained. Under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, regular checks are a legal requirement in many buildings. This includes checking:

  • Door closers
  • Intumescent seals
  • Hinges and gaps
  • Self-closing function

We always recommend using trained professionals for both fitting and inspections.

Why Choose Pendle Doors for Fire Doors in the UK?

We’re one of the most trusted fire door manufacturers in the UK, known for our attention to detail, fast lead times, and quality products. Whether you’re ordering for a small project or a large-scale development, we can help every step of the way, from design and manufacture to delivery.

Looking for certified fire doors in Manchester or across the UK? Get in touch with our team today, and we’ll help you find the right solution.

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