Distinction Doors’ composite door slab was recently submitted for fire resistance testing in accordance with British Standard 476: Part 20/22: 1987. The Standard states that a door must be able to withstand fire for a minimum of 30 minutes. Distinction Doors’ slab resisted fire for 40 minutes, a result that proves beyond doubt its fire resistance qualities. Dave Walker, Distinction’s Technical Director said, “Fire resistance certification is an essential requirement for increasing numbers of commercial contracts, so these results will help our commercial customers secure more sales. They will also provide a valuable selling point for our retail customers because of the peace of mind factor.”

The test was carried out by BM TRADA, a company that provides independent certification, testing, inspection and training services around the world. Dave commented, “As you would expect from a fire resistance test, the process is extremely rigorous and detailed, so we are delighted our doors performed so well.”

Two doors at different dimensions were tested (1914mm x 840mm x 45mm and 2025mm x 914mm x 45mm). Both were set into a VEKA Bowater PVC 10 system outerframe and installed into a BM TRADA plasterboard clad timber stud supporting partition. The test involved the doors being exposed to a furnace and being monitored closely for signs of integrity failure.  The integrity of both doors remained after 40 minutes, which is significantly more than the 30 minutes the British Standard specifies.

The tests were carried out at the request of one of Distinction’s commercial customers who wanted to tender for a fire door replacement scheme. Dave said, “We always look to work with our customers and provide the support they need, so we were more than happy to help.”

Distinction Doors is the UK’s largest composite door company and it is not hard to see why. The quality of its slab has just been proved yet again, as has the company’s commitment to supporting its customers in whatever way it can.