News

Rustic doors are the embodiment of natural beauty, with each imperfection telling a unique story of the wood's origin and journey. In this guide, we delve into the types of characteristics that are not merely acceptable but celebrated, as they contribute to the character and authenticity of our rustic doors. Hot Filler Recovery Acceptance The use of filler is acceptable providing the excess is removed. Voids left after filling are part of the door's narrative if they are less than 10 mm deep, allowing the past to be part of the present. Small Live or Solid Knots Acceptable across the whole door if they are sound and daylight is not visible, these small knots represent the enduring life of the wood, adding depth and texture to its surface. Medium to Large Live or Solid Knots These are acceptable providing daylight is not seen through the knot. Our approach to larger knots is one of respect. We don't shy away from them, provided they keep the light out. Where necessary, we fill and finesse, maintaining the wood's natural beauty. Dead or Loose Knots Including Ones Where Daylight Is Seen Through the Knot Dead knots are a common occurrence when selecting our wood and are even sometimes requested by our customers due to their unique character. However, we wouldn’t include them in our doors if daylight can be seen through them and the maximum size we would deem acceptable is around the size of a golf ball Break Out and Structural Defects These are acceptable, any size or quantity, symbolising the door's strength and resilience, much like the trees from which they were hewn. Rough Patches Acceptable but a light sanding is required to remove any sharp edges, we smooth these to ensure a pleasing texture, maintaining that balance between untouched and cared for Superficial Cracks, Shakes, Non-Structural Splits on One Side Only Acceptable on the board ends and in the middle but will require filling and gluing if wider than 2 mm and no daylight seen through the crack, the small cracks and shakes are remnants of the wood's responses to the changing world around it. We seal these memories with care, ensuring they add to the door's narrative without compromising its strength Profound Checks, Shakes, Splits Where Daylight Can Be Seen and the Board Integrity Is Compromised Acceptable but filling is required if daylight is visible through the crack, not limited to length or quantity, ensuring the defect adds to the beauty without compromising function. Profound checks, shakes, splits were daylight can be seen and and the board integrity is compromised Acceptable but filling is required if daylight is visible through the crack, not limited to length or quantity Grub Worm Holes Are Visible Acceptable but if the depth is greater than 10mm or daylight is visible, filler must be applied. There is no limit on quantity or size, allowing nature's signature to be a part of our design. Pin Worm Holes Are Visible Acceptable but filling is required if daylight is visible through the crack, we treat these tiny marks as delicate brush strokes, filling them only when light seeps through, to maintain the integrity of the wood's natural art. Blue Stain Blue stain is acceptable if very faint and only covers 10% of the plank. The subtle bluish hues are a result of a natural process within the wood, often caused by a certain type of fungi that is not harmful to the wood's structural integrity. This delicate coloration can add an understated elegance to the plank, contributing to the door’s overall patina. Burn Marks Burn marks are acceptable if faint. These marks often occur during the milling process and can be seen as part of the wood's history. They add a rustic, weathered look that is sought after in authentic, rustic designs. Sap Wood Sap wood is acceptable and not limited in quantity or size. The lighter parts of the wood, known as sapwood, contrast with the darker heartwood, creating a natural variation in color and texture that is prized in rustic style doors. Rotten Timber Bark Rotten timber bark is acceptable on one face only but must be minimal in size after sanding, maximum 30% of the board. It adds an organic, earthy element to the door, reminiscent of the wood's origin in the wild. Machining Defects If the overall width is less than 1 mm undersize, these are acceptable. Small imperfections from the machining process can occur and are seen as a mark of authenticity in a handmade product. Machining Marks Rough Patch These are acceptable but a light sanding is required to remove any sharp edges. Similar to rough patches, these marks from the machining process are a reminder of the craftsmanship that goes into each door. Colour Match: Light Boards Acceptable provided the lightest board is darker than the swatch. Variation in color is inherent to wood and is especially celebrated in rustic designs, adding depth and a natural gradient to the door. Construction Of Ledge And Face - Pin holes   Pinned around the edge of the ledge may be seen as on some of our doors we do not fill with decorative cap, this is to add to the rustic appeal of the door Each of these defects, with their specific acceptance criteria, highlights the natural origin and handmade quality of our rustic doors. They are embraced as part of the aesthetic, creating a product that is not only functional but also carries the essence of the forest with it. These doors are not just barriers between spaces; they are conversation pieces, imbued with history and crafted with care. FAQs FAQ 1: What makes a door 'rustic'? Answer: A rustic door is characterized by its natural appearance, showcasing the inherent beauty of the wood, including knots, grains, and color variations. Unlike standard doors, rustic doors often feature natural imperfections like live or solid knots, superficial cracks, and unique color patterns, which are all accepted and celebrated as part of their charm. FAQ 2: Are knots in wood a sign of weakness in rustic doors? Answer: Not at all. In rustic doors, knots are considered an attractive feature that adds to the wood's natural beauty. Small and medium-sized knots are acceptable as long as they do not allow daylight through. Larger knots are stabilized with filler if needed. These features add to the door's strength and uniqueness without affecting its durability. FAQ 3: How are defects like cracks and wormholes treated in rustic doors? Answer: Superficial cracks and splits are filled and glued if necessary, to maintain the door's integrity. Grub and pin wormholes add to the door's unique texture and are filled only if they are deep or allow light to pass through. These treatments ensure the doors remain structurally sound while preserving their natural aesthetic. FAQ 4: Will the imperfections in my rustic door worsen over time? Answer: Rustic doors are crafted to endure, and while natural wood can change over time, the imperfections that define the rustic aesthetic are generally stable. Our doors are treated to ensure that knots and cracks do not significantly change or affect the door's functionality. Environmental factors can influence wood, so we recommend protecting your door from extreme elements. With proper care and maintenance, any changes should be minimal and will continue to contribute to the door's unique character. FAQ 5: How do I maintain my rustic door and its natural imperfections? Answer: Maintaining a rustic door involves regular cleaning with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris. It's important to avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the wood. Periodic inspections to check for any changes in the wood, such as deepening cracks or loosening knots, can help you address issues promptly. If needed, reapplication of filler and sealant can be done to preserve the door's appearance and integrity.

Doors might seem like simple fixtures, but when it comes to safety, not all doors are created equal. One key difference lies in whether a door is fire-rated or not. If you're renovating, installing new internal doors, or working on a commercial property, it’s important to understand what that means. So, what is a fire-rated door, and how does it differ from a standard internal door? Let’s take a closer look. What Is a Fire-Rated Door? A fire-rated door is specifically designed to withstand fire and smoke for a set period of time, usually 30 or 60 minutes. These doors act as a barrier, slowing the spread of fire and giving people time to escape and emergency services time to respond. The door itself, the frame, the hinges, the intumescent seals — all must meet strict regulations to qualify as fire-rated. They’re tested under controlled conditions to ensure they perform as intended. In contrast, a standard door is built for general use. It offers no guaranteed fire resistance and will not be tested or certified in the same way. Key Differences Between Fire-Rated and Standard Doors Materials and Construction Fire-rated doors are made from dense, fire-resisting core materials, such as solid timber or composite materials with added fireproofing. Standard internal doors are often hollow-core and lighter in construction. Seals and Hardware Look for intumescent strips around the edges of fire doors. These expand under heat to seal gaps and block smoke. Fire doors also require fire-rated hinges, locks and handles. Certification Fire-rated doors must have a certification label or plug — often found on the top edge or hinge side of the door, confirming their rating and compliance with British Standards. Looking for Certified Fire-Rated Doors? We stock a wide range of fire-rated internal doors that combine safety with style, perfect for both homes and commercial spaces. How to Tell If a Door Is a Fire Door Not sure if the door in your home or building is fire-rated? Here’s what to check: Label or plug: Most certified fire doors include a small label or coloured plug on the door edge. Seals: Fire doors typically have intumescent strips either built in or surface-mounted around the frame. Weight and thickness: Fire-rated doors are usually heavier and thicker (typically 44mm for FD30 doors). Gaps: The gap between the door and frame should be minimal to stop smoke from seeping through. When Do You Need a Fire Door? Fire-rated doors are commonly required in: Flats and apartment blocks (between living areas and communal corridors) Domestic homes with loft conversions (often between the kitchen and hallway) Commercial buildings, schools, and hospitals Even if not legally required, they offer added peace of mind — especially between garages and homes or in rental properties. Find the Right Fire Door for Your Home Whether you're updating your home with new fire-rated doors or ensuring your property meets safety standards, our team at Internal Doors is here to help. We stock a variety of certified fire doors in different finishes, including both FD30 and FD60 fire doors. Browse our fire door collection or get in touch with our expert team for advice on the best fire-rated doors for your property.

Doors might seem like simple fixtures, but when it comes to safety, not all doors are created equal. One key difference lies in whether a door is fire-rated or not. If you're renovating, installing new internal doors, or working on a commercial property, it’s important to understand what that means. So, what is a fire-rated door, and how does it differ from a standard internal door? Let’s take a closer look. What Is a Fire-Rated Door? A fire-rated door is specifically designed to withstand fire and smoke for a set period of time, usually 30 or 60 minutes. These doors act as a barrier, slowing the spread of fire and giving people time to escape and emergency services time to respond. The door itself, the frame, the hinges, the intumescent seals — all must meet strict regulations to qualify as fire-rated. They’re tested under controlled conditions to ensure they perform as intended. In contrast, a standard door is built for general use. It offers no guaranteed fire resistance and will not be tested or certified in the same way. Key Differences Between Fire-Rated and Standard Doors Materials and Construction Fire-rated doors are made from dense, fire-resisting core materials, such as solid timber or composite materials with added fireproofing. Standard internal doors are often hollow-core and lighter in construction. Seals and Hardware Look for intumescent strips around the edges of fire doors. These expand under heat to seal gaps and block smoke. Fire doors also require fire-rated hinges, locks and handles. Certification Fire-rated doors must have a certification label or plug — often found on the top edge or hinge side of the door, confirming their rating and compliance with British Standards. Looking for Certified Fire-Rated Doors? We stock a wide range of fire-rated internal doors that combine safety with style, perfect for both homes and commercial spaces. How to Tell If a Door Is a Fire Door Not sure if the door in your home or building is fire-rated? Here’s what to check: Label or plug: Most certified fire doors include a small label or coloured plug on the door edge. Seals: Fire doors typically have intumescent strips either built in or surface-mounted around the frame. Weight and thickness: Fire-rated doors are usually heavier and thicker (typically 44mm for FD30 doors). Gaps: The gap between the door and frame should be minimal to stop smoke from seeping through. When Do You Need a Fire Door? Fire-rated doors are commonly required in: Flats and apartment blocks (between living areas and communal corridors) Domestic homes with loft conversions (often between the kitchen and hallway) Commercial buildings, schools, and hospitals Even if not legally required, they offer added peace of mind — especially between garages and homes or in rental properties. Find the Right Fire Door for Your Home Whether you're updating your home with new fire-rated doors or ensuring your property meets safety standards, our team at Internal Doors is here to help. We stock a variety of certified fire doors in different finishes, including both FD30 and FD60 fire doors. Browse our fire door collection or get in touch with our expert team for advice on the best fire-rated doors for your property.

Swapping out a door handle might seem like a small job, but it can change the feel of a room fast. Whether you're updating tired fittings or finishing off a new internal door, replacing a handle is a job most people can do in under an hour. There’s no need for specialist tools or experience. If you’re buying your handles from Internal Doors, this guide will walk you through the process from start to finish. What You’ll Need: A new internal door handle set Screwdriver Tape measure Pencil Optional: chisel (if adjusting the latch or strike plate) Step 1: Remove the Old Handle Unscrew the handle from both sides of the door. With the screws out, you can pull the handles apart and slide out the spindle (the square bar that connects them). Next, unscrew the latch plate on the edge of the door and take out the latch mechanism. Step 2: Check the Door and Handle Fit Before installing the new handle, measure the backset - the distance from the door’s edge to the centre of the handle hole.  Most internal doors we sell are 35mm thick, which suits standard handles. Step 3: Fit the Latch Insert the latch into the hole on the edge of the door. The bevelled side should face the direction the door closes — this helps the latch glide smoothly into the strike plate. Once it’s aligned, screw the latch plate into place. Step 4: Fit the Handle Push the spindle through the latch, then line up both handles on either side. Screw them into place securely, but don’t overtighten. Test the handle. It should turn freely, and the latch should retract smoothly. If it doesn’t line up with the strike plate on the frame, you may need to adjust the plate slightly using a chisel. Choosing the Right Internal Door Handle We offer door handles in a wide range of finishes to suit your internal door and property interior. Our team is always here to help, or you can browse our buying guides for expert tips.  

Internal doors with glass panels can enhance your home's elegance, letting natural light flow in and creating a sense of openness. Understanding safety should always be a priority regarding glass features. Safety glazing can be used for glazed internal doors and glass-panelled doors, with laminated or toughened glass being popular choices. We will outline safety glazing regulations and the best types of glass for internal doors. What Is Safety Glazing? Safety glazing refers to glass that has been treated or manufactured to minimise the risk of injury when it breaks. Unlike ordinary glass, which shatters into sharp shards, safety glass is engineered to break in a manner that reduces harm. Safety glazing requirements in the UK reinforce the use of safety glazing to protect people from injury. Toughened Glass Regulations Glazing requirements for internal doors are essential for preventing accidents and ensuring compliance with building regulations. Failure to adhere to safety glazing requirements can result in serious injuries. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), over 30,000 glass-related injuries occur annually in UK homes, many of which involve doors and windows. Building regulations in the UK outline the mandated use of safety glass in doors to prevent injuries. According to these regulations, safety glazing must be used in the following: Glazed internal doors – Any glass panel in a door that is below 1500 mm from the floor. Glass panels adjacent to doors – Any glazing within 300 mm of the door’s edge and below 1500 mm. Low-level glass panels – Any glass below 800 mm from the floor, even if it is not part of a door. The diagram below shows where safety glazing is required according to toughened glass regulations (taken from Approved Document K in England and Wales). Types of Glass for Doors There are several types of safety glass suitable for internal doors: Toughened Glass – Also known as tempered glass, it’s heat-treated to be up to five times stronger than regular glass. If broken, it shatters into small, harmless pieces. Laminated Glass – This consists of two glass panes bonded by a plastic interlayer. When broken, the glass stays in place, reducing the risk of injury. Wired Glass – Embedded with a wire mesh, this glass holds together when shattered, preventing large shards from falling. Benefits of Using Safety Glass for Internal Doors Installing safety glass for doors provides multiple advantages: Prevents Injury – Reduces the risk of serious harm in case of breakage. Compliance with Regulations – Ensures your home meets legal safety standards. Enhanced Durability – Toughened or laminated glass withstands greater impact, reducing the likelihood of accidents. Improved Aesthetics – Available in various designs, including frosted or decorative styles.  Choosing the Right Safety Glass for Your Internal Doors When selecting glass for internal doors, consider:  Location – Areas with high traffic or children should use laminated or toughened glass. Privacy Needs – Frosted or tinted glass options balance light and privacy. Regulation Compliance: Ensure the manufacturing process complies with British and European safety standards and that the glass has kitemark certification. Glazed Doors at Internal Doors At Internal Doors, we offer a wide range of glazed internal doors, all manufactured to comply with British and European safety standards. If you need help choosing the right internal door, contact us. You can call us on 01455 388749 or email us at trade@internaldoors.co.uk  

Fire doors are important for building safety by preventing the spread of fire and smoke. However, their effectiveness relies heavily on the quality of the ironmongery used. Hinges, locks and seals must be fire-rated and CE-marked. In this article, we’ll explore why quality fire door hardware is essential and how they ensure fire doors perform their life-saving role during a fire. Understanding Fire Door Ironmongery Fire door ironmongery, also known as fire door hardware, refers to the fire-rated hardware that allows a fire door to properly function during a fire. These include hinges, locks, handles, frames and seals that ensure a fire door not only closes but also keeps its fire-resistant properties intact. This helps prevent smoke and flames from spreading, keeping the area safe during a fire. Types of Fire Door Hardware A fire door can only function at its best when it's equipped with the right ironmongery (door hardware). There are three essential components that every fire door needs:  Hinges Quality fire door hinges are designed to support the door's weight and ensure smooth operation, even in extreme temperatures. They must meet specific fire safety standards and unlike regular door hinges, they must be made of materials resistant to heat. Frames, Linings and Casings The frame is key in securing the fire door and ensuring its fire rating. Fire-resistant linings and casings are essential for preventing the spread of heat and smoke around the edges of the door. Intumescent strips Intumescent strips and smoke seals expand when exposed to heat, sealing gaps between the door and frame to prevent smoke and flames from passing through. These are important to maintain the door's fire-resistance integrity. Handles Fire door handles must allow for easy operation, especially in emergencies. Handles should also be fire-rated and securely attached to avoid failure during a fire. Fire Door Ironmongery Regulations Fire door hardware must be CE marked to uphold safety. They should also be tested to specific standards: For locks and latches, the relevant standard is BS EN 12209.  Hinges need to meet BS EN 1935.  Door closers should be tested to BS EN 1154 or BS EN 1155.  These tests confirm that the hardware performs properly and helps the fire door meet fire protection laws.  Under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, fire door ironmongery must be in good condition. This means there should be no obvious defects, such as loose or missing screws in the hinges or damage to any other hardware components. Why Quality Fire Door Hardware Matters Reliability Under Pressure Quality ironmongery keeps your fire door functioning properly during a fire situation. For instance, a self-closing mechanism or a lock that holds until emergency services arrive. Compliance with Fire Safety Regulations Fire door hardware must comply with UK standards such as BS 476 and FD30/FD60 ratings. This ensures that the hardware, including hinges, locks and latches, is capable of maintaining the door's fire resistance and preventing failure. Durability and Longevity Quality hardware is made from durable materials that can withstand extreme heat and pressure over time, preventing degradation and maintaining safety. Prevention of Common Failures Using poor-quality hardware can lead to issues such as doors failing to close properly or locks jamming. Certified hardware, including CE-marked fire door latches, prevents the door from failing during an emergency. Fire Door Ironmongery at Internal Doors When upgrading your fire door hardware, we offer a comprehensive range of high-quality fire door ironmongery at Internal Doors. Our selection includes essential components such as hinges, locks and intumescent strips, all designed to meet strict safety standards. Whether you need parts for FD30 or FD60 doors, we provide reliable solutions. With quick ordering and fast delivery, browse our collection today or reach out to our team for expert advice on the best options for your needs. Learn more about fire doors and regulations in our extensive guide.

Fire doors provide protection against the spread of fire. However, they need regular maintenance and will eventually need to be replaced. Understanding when to replace your fire door can help ensure it continues to meet safety regulations and protect your property effectively. In this article, we'll explore how long fire doors last and how often fire doors should be replaced. How Long Do Fire Doors Last? Fire doors don’t have a set expiration date. In fact, they can last for decades with the right maintenance. If they did have an expiration date, it would be when they no longer meet fire safety regulations. The lifespan of a fire door depends on how often it’s used, how well it’s maintained and the conditions it’s exposed to. Since internal and external fire doors face different conditions, they may not last the same amount of time. Internal Fire Doors Internal fire doors are used indoors, where conditions such as temperature and humidity are more stable. This helps them last longer since they aren’t exposed to harsh weather. Because of this, warranties for internal fire doors can sometimes be longer compared to external fire doors. Fire Regulations The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 provides strict guidelines for fire doors to be correctly installed and properly maintained. By not meeting these regulations, your fire door could fail to perform during a fire.  When to Replace a Fire Door? Visible Damage to a Fire Door A fire door should be replaced when it shows visible signs of damage that compromise fire safety standards. This includes: Cracks or damage in the door or frame Excessive rust build-up Worn or missing seals (intumescent strips) Door doesn’t close properly or has gaps Missing or damaged components Previous fire damage affecting fire resistance Regularly checking your fire door for visible signs of damage is key to maintaining fire safety. If you spot any of these issues, it's important to replace the door so it continues to protect you in the event of a fire. Non-Visible Damage to a Fire Door Sometimes a fire door should be replaced even if it appears undamaged. It's not just visible damage that means it's time for a replacement. Fire doors are made up of different components and materials that can affect the level of protection they offer.  The core structure of a fire door is solid, but it can degrade over time, which impacts its fire resistance.  Delamination can occur when the layers of material within the door begin to separate, typically due to use over time.  If components have been replaced with non-fire-rated parts, the door can no longer be considered fire-rated. Even if a fire door looks intact, hidden damage can compromise its effectiveness, which means it would need to be replaced. How to Maintain Your Fire Door Start by familiarising yourself with fire door regulations and requirements. You can find everything you need in our Ultimate Guide to Fire Doors: Regulations, Designs & Understanding Your Choices. Regularly check for visible signs of damage. It's also important to have routine inspections by qualified fire professionals, as they can identify issues that may not be obvious to you. They can advise whether your fire door needs to be replaced or repaired. Keep up with regular maintenance to ensure your fire door stays in good condition. Clean the door regularly to prevent dirt build-up, which can damage seals and other important components. Internal Fire Doors at Internal Doors When it's time to replace your fire door, you can trust Internal Doors for a wide selection of fire doors, including FD30, FD60 and glazed fire doors. Our range is designed to meet the strict fire safety standards and comes in various styles and finishes. With easy ordering and fast delivery, browse our fire doors today or contact us if you have any questions.