Comparison of fireproof steel doors and fireproof wooden doors: Which is the better choice?

In the context of increasingly strict fire prevention regulations, choosing fire doors for construction works is an important factor to ensure safety and minimize risks from fire. Currently, the two most popular types on the market are fireproof steel doors and fireproof wooden doors. So, between these two types of doors, which is the best choice for your project? The article below will compare in detail the features, advantages and disadvantages of steel doors and wooden doors to help you make the right decision.

Features of fireproof steel doors

Doors are made from high-quality steel plates and are reinforced to withstand high temperatures for a certain period of time. Steel doors are often used in industrial buildings, office buildings, and areas with high safety requirements.

Advantages:

• High durability: Steel doors have good impact resistance, do not warp or crack when exposed to high temperatures.
• Good heat resistance: Steel is a good heat-resistant material, helping to prevent the spread of fire and smoke for a long time, usually from 60 to 180 minutes, depending on the design and requirements of the project.
• Easy maintenance: Steel doors do not require complicated maintenance, just need to be cleaned and checked periodically to ensure performance.

Disadvantages:

• Heavy weight: Steel doors are heavy, requiring a sturdy hinge system and door frame for installation.
  Limited aesthetics: Although steel doors can be painted or coated with a finish, they are not as diverse in color and style as wooden doors.

Features of fireproof wooden doors

Made from natural wood or industrial wood, treated with chemicals or insulation panels, fireproof to increase fire resistance. This type of door is often used in civil works such as houses, apartments, and apartment buildings.

Advantages:

• High aesthetics: Wood brings natural beauty, warmth and luxury to the interior space. Wooden doors can be customized in color, wood grain and style to match the architecture of the building.
• Lighter weight: Compared to steel doors, wooden doors are lighter in weight, easy to install and transport.
• Good sound insulation: Wood has natural sound insulation properties, helping to minimize noise from outside, creating a quieter space.

Disadvantages:

• Limited heat resistance: Although treated as fire retardant, wood is still a more flammable material than steel. The fire resistance time of wooden doors is usually shorter, about 30 to 120 minutes.
• High maintenance requirements: Wood requires regular maintenance to avoid termites, warping, or damage due to moisture.

Production of fireproof wooden doors using KH Shield panels

KH Shield Fireproof Panel

Detailed comparison between wooden doors and steel doors

Fire resistance

• Fireproof steel doors: Usually have better fire resistance with a longer fire resistance time, from 60 to 180 minutes. Steel does not burn or deform when exposed to high temperatures.
• Fireproof wooden doors: Although fireproof panels and insulation panels are used, wood still has a shorter fire resistance time, about 30 to 120 minutes, depending on the needs.

Durability

• Fireproof steel doors: Have outstanding durability, are not affected by termites, insects, or humidity. Steel doors are suitable for areas with harsh weather conditions.
• Fireproof wooden doors: Easily affected by the environment, need regular maintenance to keep the door in the best condition.

Aesthetics

• Fireproof steel doors: Usually have simple designs, mainly basic colors such as gray, white, black. Although it can be painted, the aesthetics of steel doors are not as high as wooden doors.
• Fireproof wooden doors: Diverse in design, color and wood grain. Wood brings natural beauty, suitable for many different design styles from classic to modern.

Cost

• Fireproof steel doors: Usually cost less than wooden doors due to simpler materials and production processes.
• Fireproof wooden doors: Cost more, especially when using rare natural woods or requiring special designs.

Which is better?

The choice between steel doors and wooden doors depends on many factors such as the purpose of use, budget, and aesthetic requirements of the project. Here are some suggestions to help you make a decision:

• Fireproof steel doors: Suitable for industrial buildings, warehouses, offices or areas requiring high fire safety. If you prioritize fire resistance and durability, this is a reasonable choice.
• Fireproof wooden doors: Suitable for civil works, apartments, or areas requiring high aesthetics. If you want to create a cozy, luxurious space, wooden doors are a good choice.

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