Fire Door Defects: Repair or Replace?
Component-by-component decision guide. Know when defects can be repaired on-site and when replacement is the only compliant option.
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The Key Principle
Fire doors are tested as complete assemblies. Any repair or modification must not invalidate the door's fire test evidence.
BS 8214:2016 states that repairs should be carried out by competent persons and must maintain the fire resistance of the doorset. When in doubt, consult the door manufacturer or a third-party certification body.
Quick Reference by Component
Door Leaf
- ✓ Minor surface damage
- ✓ Missing fire door label (if provenance confirmed)
- ✗ Holes or penetrations
- ✗ Warping or bowing
- ✗ Delamination
- ✗ Core exposed
Frame
- ✓ Loose fixings
- ✓ Minor rebate damage
- ✓ Frame out of square (minor)
- ✓ Gap to wall (<10mm)
- ✗ Major structural damage
- ✗ Cannot be secured
Seals
- ✓ Incorrectly fitted seals
- ✓ Painted over (if function OK)
- ✗ Missing seals
- ✗ Damaged/deteriorated seals
- ✗ Worn smoke seals
Hinges
- ✓ Loose screws
- ✗ Worn pins
- ✗ Missing hinges
- ✗ Wrong specification
Self-Closer
- ✓ Needs adjustment
- ✗ Oil leakage
- ✗ Damaged arm/body
- ✗ Missing closer
Glazing
- ✓ Loose beads
- ✗ Cracked glass
- ✗ Missing intumescent
- ✗ Non-fire-rated glass
The full PDF includes 40+ defect codes with detailed repair methods and replacement guidance.
Decision Process
Documentation Requirements
Under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, Responsible Persons must keep records of fire door inspections and maintenance. Always document:
Practical Considerations
When Repair Makes Sense
- • Defect is minor and superficial
- • Repair won't affect fire integrity
- • Door is otherwise in good condition
- • Original specification is known
- • Repair can meet manufacturer standards
When Replacement is Better
- • Multiple defects on the same door
- • Door provenance is unknown
- • Core material is exposed or damaged
- • Door approaching end of service life
- • Repair cost approaches replacement cost
Track Defects with IgnisTrack
Capture defects, document repair decisions, and generate Bills of Materials automatically. Never lose track of fire door maintenance.
Start 14-Day Free TrialReferences: BS 8214:2016 - Code of practice for fire door assemblies | Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 | Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
IgnisTrack is a tool to assist with fire safety record-keeping. The Responsible Person remains legally responsible for fire safety compliance.