While not strictly the purview of architects, installation considerations can prove helpful in creating the best possible environment and assuring the effectiveness of fire rated doors. Particularly for architects who make site visits, several of the following considerations may be of particular value.

When it comes to actually putting the fire rated assembly in place, the NFPA 80, "Standard for Fire Doors and Fire Windows" also provides valuable guidance for installing fire doors and frames and hardware.

If a fire-rated assembly is intended for interior use, i.e., areas unexposed to the weather, it is generally appropriate for apartment entrances, elevator shafts, hallways, stairwells, electric service closets, and any area deemed a fire protection zone. With doors rated Category A, no additional edge sealing is necessary-they have been evaluated without intumescent. Category B doors, on the other hand, do require an additional edge-sealing system that must be installed by a licensed installer.

Category A doors may be installed in a metal or wood frame. If the fire-rated doors and frames have been tested in a steel stud/gypsum wallboard, they are set to be installed in any type of wall assembly, provided the installation is completed by qualified personnel according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Following are additional installation concerns:

• Before installation, all substrates should be thoroughly cleaned and properly prepared and using the methods recommended by the manufacturer.
• Rough opening sizes should conform to specified shop drawings.
• Walls should be the correct type and rating to receive door assemblies.
• The door unit should be acclimated to the environment at the actual installation site 24 hours prior to installation.
• Generally speaking, all fire-rated doors should be installed in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
• Particular care should be taken to use the proper type and length of screws that the manufacturer requires.
• After doors have been installed into frames, they should be shimmed as necessary to adjust spacing for proper fit and operation of entire unit.
• In installing hardware, manufacturer's instructions should be followed exactly to comply with tested assembly requirements.
• Hardware should be fitted for unrestricted function.