If you’re looking to purchase a solid burn door, make sure you consider some important factors. These factors include the material being used, such as solid-core wood or MDF, intumescent paints, and smoke gasketing. By combining these factors, you’ll be able to choose the best solid-burn door for your needs.
Solid-core wood
Solid-core wood doors are a good choice for your home. Not only are they durable and offer superior heat insulation, but they also insulate against sound, which is important in areas that experience a lot of noise. And, unlike hollow core doors, solid-core doors don’t expand or contract with temperature changes.
When comparing solid-core wood doors with hollow metal doors, you can easily determine the type by their weight. A heavier door is a solid-core door. You can also knock on a door to hear whether it is hollow.
MDF
MDF is an engineered wood product made of wood fibers and resin. The material is much denser than particleboard and is often used in residential and commercial construction. MDF doors are made with a high-temperature process to replicate the appearance of various types of wood. This material is also odorless, easy to move, and doesn’t absorb moisture.
MDF is moisture resistant, but MDF boards can be affected by water. This oak doors uk means that MDF doors should not be installed in areas with constant humidity, such as bathrooms. MDF doors also shouldn’t be exposed to direct sunlight, which can fade the color of the finish.
Intumescent paints
Using intumescent paints on wood doors and windows can protect your home and business from fire damage. They protect wood by blocking the spread of smoke and flames. In addition, they can help your building meet a specific fire rating. However, you should choose an intumescent paint that is EPA-compliant and certified by ASTM. There are also a few common pitfalls to avoid when using intumescent paints on wood.
Intumescent paints for solid burn door and windows provide fire protection for up to 120 minutes. During the fire, intumescent paints expand and form an insulating layer that slows down the steel’s temperature. Steel begins to lose its load bearing capacity when temperatures exceed 500degC. Because intumescent paint is applied in layers, it can be applied to small or large areas.
Smoke gasketing
Smoke gasketing on solid burn doors prevents smoke from passing through the door. It also helps reduce sound transmission. Often, it requires multiple layers to create a tight seal. To test for tightness, use a piece of paper and insert it into the door. If the paper falls out easily, the gasket may need replacing. To make the gasket more tight, add more cement.
To install smoke gasketing, follow the directions provided by the manufacturer. The door’s model code will provide a reference for where the smoke gasketing must be placed. The IBC and NFPA 101 specify specific locations for smoke doors, and the latter also mentions a limitation on air leakage.