Overview: Yes, fire doors can include glazing — but only if properly tested and certified. Learn everything you need to know about glazed fire doors, safety standards, and compliance requirements. Read on!
When we think of fire doors, many of us picture a solid, heavy, opaque slab of metal or wood — impenetrable and strictly utilitarian. But how many times do we consider aesthetics and visibility are also essential, especially in commercial and public buildings? That’s where glazed fire doors come in.
So, the question gets different: can fire doors contain glazing?
Yes, they absolutely can — but only under very specific conditions.
This post breaks down what’s possible, what’s compliant, and what building managers, architects, and facility owners need to understand when incorporating glazed fire doors into their premises.
What Type of Glass Is Used in Fire Doors?
The glass used in fire doors must meet rigorous fire-resistance standards. The most common types include:
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Integrity Glass – Prevents flames and smoke from passing through but doesn’t block radiant heat.
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Integrity and Insulation Glass – Offers both flame/smoke protection and heat insulation for added safety.
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Wired Glass – Often used in older buildings but less common today due to newer, clearer fire-rated glass technologies.
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Ceramic Glass – Thin and clear, capable of withstanding high temperatures for longer duration.
Important: The glass must be tested as part of the entire door set. You cannot just insert fire-rated glass into a non-tested frame or door and expect compliance.
Also Read >> Types of Fire Doors: Safety & Compliance
How Much Glazing Can a Fire Door Have?
There’s no universal limit on the amount of glazing — it depends entirely on the door’s tested and certified specification. Some fire doors may feature small vision panels, while others are almost fully glazed.
Typical applications include:
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Vision Panels – For safety and visibility in corridors or busy traffic areas
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Fully Glazed Fire Doors – Often used in commercial offices or modern buildings to enhance aesthetics without compromising fire safety
Regulatory Tip: The glazing aperture must match the size, shape, and position tested in the fire door’s certification. Deviating from that — even slightly — can void the door’s fire rating.
Compliance and Certification: What You Need to Check
When installing glazed fire doors, ensure the entire door set is third-party certified, including:
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Door leaf
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Frame
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Glazing system
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Intumescent seals
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Hinges and hardware
Make sure the door carries a valid fire door label or plug, and refer to the door manufacturer’s technical datasheet to confirm glazing is part of the certified assembly.
Look for accreditations such as:
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BM TRADA Q-Mark
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Certifire
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IFC Certification
Where Are Glazed Fire Doors Typically Used?
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Hospitals and Care Facilities – Visibility is essential for monitoring patients
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Schools and Universities – Safety and natural lighting in corridors
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Office Buildings – Aesthetics, light transmission, and safety
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Retail and Hospitality – Where transparency and fire safety must coexist
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Apartment Blocks – Entry doors with vision panels for added security
>> Related Reading: Where Are Fire Doors Required & Why Are They Needed?
Need Help Ensuring Compliance?
At Barr Commercial Door, we specialize in fire-rated door installation, including doors with certified glazing. Our technicians ensure that every element — from the door leaf to the glazing to the final fix is fully compliant with UL and NFPA standards and tailored to your facility’s safety requirements.
Whether you’re upgrading to improve visibility, modernize your facility’s aesthetics, or meeting specific fire code requirements, we can help you choose the right glazed fire door system that keeps you safe and compliant.
Final Thoughts
Yes, fire doors can absolutely contain glazing — as long as that glazing is certified, properly installed, and part of a tested door set. Done right, glazed fire doors offer the perfect balance of safety, visibility, and modern design.
