Fire protection systems in buildings: which doors and windows should we choose?

 Why is it important to install fire windows and doors in private homes?

While fire prevention systems are widely associated with public buildings or industrial facilities, ever more investors are also choosing to install them in single-family homes. There are a number of reasons for this, including:

1. Protection for residents – if a fire occurs, the right classes of doors and windows can slow the spread of fire, giving residents more time to evacuate.
2. Safety of the property – keeping individual rooms safe from flames helps minimize property damage.
3. Applicable standards – newly designed buildings must comply with current legal requirements for fire protection.

Many people may find the purchase and installation of appropriate solutions to be an extra expense. But you should keep in mind that investing in fire windows and doors not only translate into a higher level of safety, but also help to reduce potential losses as a result of a fire.

Characteristics of fire doors and windows

Such joinery is different from standard joinery, primarily in terms of the materials it is made of and the construction method. The key features of fire windows and doors include the following:

• fire resistance – designated with the symbols EI, where “E” stands for fire sealing level (containment of flames) and “I’ stands for thermal insulation (containment of heat);
• durability and robustness – these structures are made of materials resistant to high temperatures, such as steel, aluminum or special fireproof glass.
• smoke insulation – fire doors and windows are often fitted with extra seals to prevent smoke from penetrating into other rooms.

One example that should be mentioned is the MB-86EI system, comprising EI30-class windows, doors and fire walls. Apart from having high fire resistance, it is characterized by good aesthetic design, excellent thermal insulation parameters and very good waterproofing. 

Smoke extraction windows – what should you know?

Another solution designed to increase fire safety are smoke extraction windows, used mainly in multi-story buildings and sometimes in single-family houses. Designed primarily to quickly expel smoke and toxic gases to the outside, smoke extraction windows form one of the key components of a well-designed gravity ventilation system.

Their reliable operation is ensured by an automatic opening system that is triggered as soon as the sensors detect smoke. These mechanisms can have electric or pneumatic actuators, often working in synchronized systems to allow fast and smooth opening, even for large window areas. Mounted parallel to the window frame, “Tandem” drives ensure quiet and reliable operation, which is important not only in case of an alarm, but also in the daily use of a building.

Most importantly, smoke extraction windows are suitable for a wide variety of locations: both in aluminium facades and roof glazing. As a result, they offer a broad range of possibilities for use in modern buildings. Such products comply with rigorous standards, such as EN 12101-2, attesting to their high quality and reliability.

Boiler room in a house: a special place in terms of fire safety

In a room with a domestic heating substation, the risk of fire increases given the presence of the central heating boiler, the multitude of installations or fuel storage. This is why it is essential to select a boiler room door with a suitable fire resistance rating, such as EI30 or EI60. These symbols mean that the door can hold back fire and smoke for 30 or 60 minutes respectively.

It is also advisable to have efficient ventilation and a smoke extraction system to quickly remove smoke and toxic fumes from the boiler room if there is an emergency. 

Keep your home safe!

Fire protection systems, including fire-resistant joinery and smoke extraction windows, are becoming ever more popular in single-family housing. Aluprof supports investors in this respect by providing end-to-end fire protection solutions, including high-quality windows and smoke dampers complying with stringent standards.

All our products offer high reliability, modern design and functionality. With a wide range of available systems, innovative mechanisms and timeless design, our portfolio is attractive for both commercial buildings and single-family housing. Choose the right system for you and make your home safer today!