The importance of technical doors in sustainable construction

Interior doors play a crucial role in security, comfort and energy efficiency of modern buildings. Within the context of sustainable construction, technological developments have made it possible to develop certified solutions which comply with demanding regulations and ensure greater durability. Ranging from fire and acoustic doors to thermal and security solutions, the appropriate choice of these elements greatly contributes to the performance of spaces.

Fire doors: certified security and resistance

Fire doors are designed to restrain fire and smoke propagation, permitting a safe evacuation of the occupants. The fire performance is classified using standard tests, which establish the time during which the door maintains its integrity, watertightness and thermal insulation. The most common classifications are 30, 60 or 90 minutes, but there are also solutions with performances of 15, 45 or even 120 minutes, according to the specific requirements of each project. These ratings conform to the EN 13501-2 standard, with compliance tests according to EN 1634-1. The composition of these solutions includes the door, frame, accessories and intumescent materials - key elements to guarantee efficiency in buildings including schools, hospitals, hotels, offices and other service spaces. International certifications also make it possible to identify quality and reliable products in critical situations.

The combination of protection and acoustic comfort

In many architectural projects, besides fire resistance, it is essential to integrate acoustic properties into doors and frames. Fire and acoustic solutions meet this need, combining technologies which prevent sound transmission while maintaining security. The level of acoustic insulation required for each environment must be considered. Acoustic doors are classified in decibels (dB), and the choice depends on the level of noise needed to be blocked. Models such as the Portaro® EI30 AC45, offering fire resistance for up to 30 minutes and acoustic insulation of up to 45 decibels, are ideal for hotels and offices, where acoustic comfort and fire protection are essential. The design of these solutions demands the integration of acoustic materials and advanced sealing systems which prevent the passage of smoke and sound, ensuring a safer and more comfortable experience for users.

Security doors: resistance and full protection

Security doors represent an essential category in the protection of spaces. These doors are tested and certified to withstand intrusion attempts and they comply with the EN 1627-1630 standards, which classify the level of resistance according to different degrees of security. The most advanced solutions include multi-point locks, high security cylinders and structural reinforcements which make intrusion more difficult. An example of this is the Portaro® Security RC2 EI45 AC45, which offers a combination of fire resistance up to 45 minutes, acoustic insulation up to 45dB, excellent thermal performance with a transmission coefficient of UD: 1.2 W/(m².ºC) and security level RC2 - an ideal solution for home or office entrances which require a high degree of security without compromising design and functionality.

Energetic efficiency with thermal doors

On the other hand, energy efficiency in construction has driven the development of thermal doors, which are designed to both minimise heat loss and improve insulation between air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned areas. These solutions fulfil the requirements of the EN 10077 standard, which regulates thermal transmission. Options such as the Portaro® Thermal have U-values between UD = 1.1 W/(m².ºC) and UD = 1.2 W/(m².ºC), making a significant contribution to the energy efficiency of spaces. This improvement in thermal performance reduces energy consumption and is in line with the goals of sustainability, promoting buildings with a lower environmental impact and greater comfort for the users.

Technical challenges and innovative solutions

Developing advanced technical solutions for interior doors presents a number of challenges. The key issue is to ensure compatibility between technical performance and architectural design, particularly in projects where the integration of building elements must maintain a continuous aesthetic. Solutions such as Portaro® Inverse enable the door to be applied flush with panels or architrave, resulting in straight, continuous surfaces without compromising security or efficiency. Furthermore, compliance with increasingly demanding regulations requires constant innovation in the manufacturing and product certification processes. Vicaima has adopted sustainable strategies, using FSC® certified materials and optimising its production processes to reduce its carbon footprint.

Conclusion

Technical products play an essential role in the security, comfort and energy efficiency of buildings. The combination of innovation and certification enables companies such as Vicaima to provide customised solutions to meet the requirements of a sustainable construction sector. Choosing the right door will depend on the environment of application, the regulations in force and the specific needs of each project. As technologies advance and the demand for more sustainable construction increases, the sector will continue to evolve towards ever more efficient and specialised solutions.

Article by Pedro Silva, Board Member at Vicaima, for EcoConstrucción Magazine, Spain..