A fire-door enquiry should describe the complete opening. Comparing only the door leaf can miss differences in the frame, hardware, installation and supporting documentation.
Create an opening schedule
Record each opening’s location, size and intended use. Have the responsible designer confirm the required performance and configuration. Use a consistent schedule when requesting offers so suppliers price the same requirement.
Review the assembly
Ask the supplier to identify the leaf, frame, hardware and any glazing as one proposed assembly. Request documentation relevant to that configuration. Do not assume separate component descriptions establish the performance of the installed opening.
Define installation and records
Agree who checks the opening, installs the assembly and records the final condition. Retain the approved schedule, product documentation and handover records. Changes to components should be referred back to the responsible specialist.
A practical comparison record
Use a shared record for a fire door is more than a door leaf. Give each party the same project information and document revision. Keep equipment selection, site interfaces and commercial responsibilities visible as separate items.
| Review area | Record to request |
|---|---|
| Opening | Location, dimensions and wall interface |
| Assembly | Leaf, frame, hardware and glazing where relevant |
| Evidence | Product documents and assembly limitations |
| Installation | Responsibilities and inspection records |
Example to discuss with your team
Two door offers may describe a similar rating but include different hardware or omit the frame. Ask the responsible reviewer to assess the complete assembly.
Before requesting a quotation
- Identify the project, site and current document revision.
- Send the same scope and clarification questions to each bidder.
- List exclusions, responsibilities and required handover records.
- Keep agreed changes in writing so the purchase order reflects the final scope.
A clear comparison records unresolved questions as well as confirmed items. Assign each question to a responsible party and keep its written response with the quotation. Revisit the comparison when the document revision or scope changes.
Explore the relevant service
This is a project-planning overview. The responsible qualified professional must determine the site-specific design and applicable requirements.
Further reading: NFPA reference resource ↗