You might be wondering what kind of door you need between your house and garage. Do you need a fire-rated door? Codes and regulations vary from place to place, so it’s important to do your research before buying or installing a new door.
In this post, we’ll explore the different types of fire-rated doors, how much they cost compared to normal doors, and some other things to consider when choosing a new door for your home.
What Kind of Door Do I Need Between My House and Garage?
When it comes to doors between your house and garage, there are two main types of doors: fire-rated doors and non-fire-rated doors. Fire-rated doors are required by code in some areas, while in other areas they are not. However, even if they are not required by code, fire-rated doors offer many benefits and can provide peace of mind.
What Is a Fire Rated Door?
Fire-rated doors are usually made of solid wood, steel, fiberglass, or fire-rated glass and have a fire rating of at least 20 minutes. This means that in the event of a fire, the door will hold up for at least 20 minutes before burning through. Non-fire-rated doors are usually made of hollow core and do not have any fire rating.
Benefits of Fire-Rated Doors
One of the main benefits of fire-rated doors is that they can help to contain a fire. In the event of a fire, having a fire-rated door can stop the spread of smoke and flames, giving you more time to safely evacuate the building. Fire-rated doors can also help to protect against smoke and heat damage.
Another benefit of fire-rated doors is that they are usually more durable than non-fire-rated doors. This is because they are made of solid materials that can better withstand wear and tear. Fire-rated doors also tend to have better seals, which can help to keep out drafts, dust, and pests.
Cost of Fire Rated Doors
Fire-rated doors usually cost more than non-fire-rated doors. However, the price difference is not as significant as you might think. For example, a fire-rated wood door can cost around $200, while a non-fire-rated wood door can cost around $100.
Do I Need a Fire Rated Door?
As we mentioned, fire-rated doors are usually required by code in some areas. However, even if they are not required by your local code, fire-rated doors offer many benefits and can provide peace of mind. If you are unsure whether or not you need a fire-rated door, we recommend consulting with a local contractor or building code official.
Codes and Regulations for Garage Entry Doors
There are a few different codes and regulations that apply to garage entry doors. The most important one is the International Building Code, which sets safety standards for all types of buildings.
According to the IBC, garage entry doors must be self-closing and self-latching. They must also have a release mechanism that can be operated from the inside so that people can escape in case of an emergency.
The door must also satisfy the requirements of IBC section R302.5.1 which requires ONE of the following (source):
- The solid wood door at least 1 3/8″ thick
- Solid or Honeycomb steel door at least 1 3/8″ thick
- Fire-rated door (20 minutes)
If your garage entry door doesn’t meet these requirements, you’ll need to have it upgraded or replaced. Contact a local contractor to find out more about your options.
How Can I Tell if My Current Home to Garage Door Is a Fire-Rated Door or Not?
The best way to tell if your current door is fire-rated is to look for a label or stamp that indicates the door’s fire rating. It’ll have a label on the top, bottom, or hinge side.
You can also consult your local building code official to find out if your door needs to be replaced or upgraded.
Types of Fire Rated Doors
There are four main types of fire-rated doors:
- Solid wood doors
- Honey-comb Steel doors
- Fiberglass doors
- Fire-rated glass doors
Solid wood doors are the most common type of fire-rated door. They are usually made of hardwoods like oak or maple and have solid construction.
Steel doors are another type of fire-rated door. They are usually made of a steel honeycomb core that is surrounded by steel skins. Steel doors are very strong and durable.
Fiberglass doors are another type of fire-rated door. They are made of fiberglass reinforced plastic and have a smooth surface. Fiberglass doors are resistant to impact, weather, and fire.
Fire-rated glass doors are the most expensive type of fire-rated door. They are made of tempered glass and have a fire-resistant coating. Fire-rated glass doors are impact resistant and offer the best protection from fire and smoke.
No matter which type of fire-rated door you choose, make sure that it is installed by a professional. Improper installation can void the door’s fire rating and put your home at risk.
Can I Use a Normal Frame for A Fire-Rated Door?
No, you cannot use a normal frame for a fire-rated door. Fire-rated doors must be installed in a fire-rated frame. However, some fire-door frames don’t have a numerical rating (e.g. 20 minutes, 3 hours, etc.) and this may not pass the requirements of your local regulations. Check your local regs to see if this is the case.
If you’re unsure, we recommend consulting with a local contractor or building code official.
Do I Need a Special Lock for My Fire-Rated Door?
No, you do not need a special lock for your fire-rated door. Any standard lockset will work. Fire-rated doors must be self-closing and self-latching, so you’ll need a lockset that meets these requirements.
Can Garage Entry Doors Open Into a Bedroom?
No, garage entry doors cannot open into a bedroom. This is because bedrooms are considered to be sleeping areas and must have a means of egress in case of an emergency.
If your garage entry door opens into a bedroom, you’ll need to have it replaced or upgraded.
What Room Does a Garage Entry Door Have to Connect To?
A garage entry door must connect to a room that has a means of egress. This can be a living room, family room, kitchen, or any other room that has an exit door.
The exit door can be a standard entry door or an emergency exit door.
If your garage entry door doesn’t connect to a room that has a means of egress, you’ll need to have it replaced or upgraded.
Can I Have a Pet Door Installed in My Fire-Rated Door?
No, you cannot have a pet door installed in a fire-rated door. Fire-rated doors must be self-closing and self-latching, so a pet door would compromise the door’s fire rating.
If you want to have a pet door, you’ll need to have it installed in a non-fire-rated door.
Can I Paint My Fire-Rated Door?
Yes, you can paint your fire-rated door. However, you’ll need to use paint that is approved for use on fire-rated doors. You can find these paints at most hardware stores.
Paints that are not approved for use on fire-rated doors can void the door’s fire rating.
It’s also important to note that painting a fire-rated door will void the manufacturer’s warranty.
Which Way Should a Garage Entry Door Swing (into the Garage or The House)?
The door should swing into the house so that if there is a fire in the garage, the door will close and prevent the fire from spreading to the house.
If the door swings into the garage, it could be blown open by the force of the fire and allow the fire to spread to the house.
Does the City or County Have to Inspect a New Garage Entry Door After Installation?
It depends on your local regulations. In some areas, building permits are required for any new construction, including garage entry doors.
In other areas, inspections are only required if the door is part of a new home or an addition to an existing home.
Myths of Fire Rated Doors and Walls Between Your House and Garage
There are many myths about fire-rated doors and walls between your house and garage.
One myth is that a fire-rated door will protect your home from a fire in the garage. This is not true. Fire-rated doors only provide a barrier to prevent the spread of fire and smoke.
Another myth is that a firewall between the garage and house will protect your home from a fire in the garage. This is also not true. Firewalls only provide a barrier to prevent the spread of fire and smoke.
The only way to fully protect your home from a fire in the garage is to have a fire sprinkler system installed in the garage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the kind of door you need between your house and garage depends on several factors. You’ll need to consider the fire rating, the swing of the door, and whether or not you need a permit for installation.
Be sure to consult with a local contractor or building code official to ensure that your door meets all the requirements.
