Gaskets: The Small Part That Makes a Big Difference

Facts, Stats & Standards

Gaskets are a critical inspection point on all door assemblies, particularly fire-rated and smoke-rated openings. Though they may seem like a small detail, gaskets play a critical role in containing smoke and fire during an emergency and are essential for passing fire door inspections. When it comes to life safety, even the smallest components can make a significant difference.

GASKETS ARE A REQUIRED INSPECTION ITEM

NFPA 80 requires gasketing and edge seals to be inspected on every fire door assembly

“Gasketing (intumescent and smoke seals) shall be inspected for presence, continuity, damage, and proper type” -NFPA 80, 2022 Edition, 6.4.7.5.4

damaged or missing seals are one of the most common issues worldwide

Gaskets Are Critical For Fire & Smoke Containment

• Gaskets seal gaps around the doors and frame to block smoke, hot gases, and flames

• Intumescent gaskets expand up to 10x their size in a fire to fill voids

• Smoke seals control toxic smoke; the leading cause of fire-related deaths*

*Smoke inhalation causes the majority (typically 50–80%) of fire deaths – NFPA 2026

Proper gaskets and seals in fire doors are one of the key defenses against smoke spread

Annual AAADM inspections ensure safe automatic pedestrian doors. NFPA 80 requires annual fire door inspections (including automatic and smoke-rated). Our certified inspectors provide inspections, repair, and maintenance to ensure gaskets perform when it matters most.