Fire doors are an important part of passive fire protection systems. They slow the spread of flames, heat and smoke. They protect escape routes, buy people valuable time and help businesses stay compliant with UK fire safety regulations.
But not every building can rely on standard, off-the-shelf products. Older properties, complex layouts, specialist environments and unique architectural features demand something more specific. This is where bespoke fire doors come in.
In this guide, we explain what bespoke fire doors are and when they’re the best option. We look at how UK fire door regulations apply to bespoke setups and what to expect when you order made-to-measure fire safety solutions for your business premises.
What is a bespoke fire door?
A bespoke fire door is a made-to-measure door set, built to fit a specific opening, meet fire performance requirements and complement the design of your building.
Custom doors often feature the same fire door construction as standard doors. But there are some key differences.
Unlike standard fire doors, which come in fixed sizes and limited configurations, bespoke fire doors are custom-designed for your company. They can be tailored in terms of:
- Dimensions. You can get custom size fire doors in nearly any width or height.
- Fire ratings. Choose from a range of fire door ratings, from FD30 up to FD240.
- Materials. Timber, steel or composite constructions, depending on the setting.
- Vision panels. Fire-rated glazing in custom shapes and sizes.
- Acoustic performance. Additional soundproofing if necessary.
- Security. The option to include advanced or automatic locking features.
- Design and finish. Fire-proof paints and powder-coat finishes that fit your branding or architectural design.
- Hardware. Certified hinges, closers, latches, panic hardware and handles suited to the door and its fire rating.
All types of fire doors can be made to measure. So you can get a bespoke fit for your fire-rated doors, fire exits and fire curtains.
When to choose made-to-measure fire doors
Some buildings can use standard fire doors. But bespoke fire doors are the right choice when safety, compliance or practicality requires a tailored solution. You may need a made-to-measure fire door if any of the following apply.
1. Your building has non-standard openings or layout
Older buildings, warehouses and refurbished sites often have doorway dimensions that don’t match standard sizes. It’s also difficult to make large, open-plan spaces fire safe using standardised solutions.
In complex layouts, bespoke fire doors help you to:
- Maintain compartmentation
- Protect evacuation routes
- Comply with fire safety regulations, even where there are awkward architectural constraints
2. You need next-level fire protection
Many standard fire doors come with FD30 and FD60 ratings. But sometimes this isn’t enough. You may need a bespoke FD90, FD120 or FD240 door to meet your fire safety requirements.
There are many instances when a higher level of fire protection is necessary. Some examples include fire doors for plant rooms, data centres, high-risk industrial spaces and storage areas that contain flammable materials.
3. Aesthetics are important
Schools, offices, hospitality venues and luxury developments need to meet fire safety obligations. But often, they want to do so without compromising the look and feel of the space.
Bespoke fire doors can match existing décor and your brand colours. They can fit with heritage features and specialist architectural designs.
You get fire doors that perform an essential, practical function — and enhance the design of your building too.
4. You need specialist performance features
Fire safety isn’t the only consideration. You may also need doors with some or all of the following features:
- Soundproofing
- Insulation
- Advanced security
- Access control integration
Standard doors rarely combine these requirements effectively. But, because bespoke doors are built around your needs, they can tick all the boxes.
Here at Fire Door Systems, we regularly design and manufacture custom fire doors that perform multiple functions.
What are the regulations around bespoke fire doors?
Bespoke or not, all fire doors must comply with UK fire safety law as per The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Depending on your fire risk assessment, that might mean.
- Fire ratings. Fire-rated doors must meet the required fire resistance period. These ratings are confirmed through third-party testing.
- Correct signage. All fire doors have to carry fire safety signage, telling people what they should and shouldn’t do in the event of a fire.
- Fire exits. You should have the right number of fire exits for your building size, configuration and occupancy.
- Installation and maintenance. Regulations state that fire doors should be installed by a competent professional and should be inspected regularly.
Unsure what your fire doors need to do? FDS is a fully accredited company. Our team of fire safety technicians can conduct a fire safety survey and create an action plan that is unique to your space.
What is the process for ordering custom fire doors?
When you order custom-made fire doors from FDS, the process is simple.
1. We learn your requirements
Start by getting in touch with the FDS team.
Tell us about your requirements — whether that’s a bespoke fire door, fire exit or fire curtain. Or let us know if you want to clarify requirements by starting with a fire safety survey.
When we have a good understanding of the doors you need, we’ll provide a no-obligation quote.
2. We design and manufacture your door
Following a site visit, we design and manufacture your custom fire-rated doors, meeting the fire safety, performance and aesthetic requirements we’ve established together.
3. We install your door
Our team of experienced fire door installers will fit your doors to ensure compliance.
You can also use FDS for fire door maintenance. Our team can create a tailored service plan to ensure your fire doors stay in top working condition.
Want to get started? Give the team a call to get your fire door quote today.
Bespoke fire door FAQs
Are made-to-measure fire doors more expensive than off-the-shelf doors?
Yes, made-to-measure fire doors tend to be more expensive than off-the-shelf solutions. This is because they are designed and engineered from scratch to fit your building.
Custom fire doors can be made to any size and design. They can be manufactured to meet specific performance and fire safety requirements.
How often should you check a bespoke fire door?
You should book a professional fire door service at least twice a year. This helps to ensure your fire doors perform at their best.
A competent person within your company should check fire doors more regularly. They should look for damage, wear and obstructions that would prevent the door from operating properly.
How do custom fire doors work?
Custom fire doors work in the same way as a standard fire door. They use intumescent seals, fire-tested core materials and approved hardware to hold back fire and smoke for a set period of time.
