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FAQs

Drop Seals & Threshold Plates

Do drop down seals stop draughts?

Yes, drop-down door seals are designed to help prevent draughts by creating a seal between the bottom of the door and the floor when the door is closed. By helping to block the passage of cold air, drop-down seals can reduce unwanted draughts, improve comfort and contribute to greater energy efficiency by reducing heat loss. In addition to draught reduction, some automatic drop-down seals can also assist with acoustic performance and smoke containment when used as part of a tested door sealing system.

Can drop seals reduce noise?

Yes, acoustic drop seals and automatic drop-down door seals can help reduce sound transfer by sealing the gap between the bottom of the door and the floor when the door is closed. By minimising this gap, acoustic drop seals can significantly improve sound insulation and help reduce the transmission of noise between rooms. The level of acoustic performance will depend on the specific product, door set configuration and installation method, so always refer to the relevant acoustic test data and product datasheet for performance information.

Are drop down seals fire rated?

Yes, many drop-down door seals and automatic drop seals are fire-rated and have been tested for use with fire doors as part of a passive fire protection system. Fire-rated drop-down seals help maintain the fire performance of a door set by sealing the gap beneath the door when closed, assisting in restricting the passage of fire, smoke and hot gases. The fire rating and suitability of a drop seal will vary by product, so always check the relevant fire test evidence, certification and manufacturer’s installation guidance to ensure compliance with the required fire door specification and regulations.

How does a drop down seal work?

A drop-down seal, also known as an automatic drop seal or automatic door bottom seal, activates when the door closes. A mechanism within the seal is triggered as the door reaches the frame, causing a sealing gasket to drop down and create a tight seal against the floor or threshold. This helps to block the passage of air, draughts, sound and smoke through the gap beneath the door. When the door is opened, the seal automatically retracts, allowing the door to operate freely without dragging on the floor.

What is a drop down seal?

A drop-down seal, also known as an automatic drop seal or automatic door bottom seal, is a device fitted to the bottom of a door that automatically seals the gap between the door and the floor when the door is closed. The seal is activated as the door closes, helping to reduce the passage of air, draughts, sound and smoke through the gap beneath the door. Drop-down seals are commonly used on internal doors, acoustic doors and fire doors to improve sealing performance and overall door set functionality.

What is the minimum and maximum gap size for the FAS45 Rebated Drop Down Seal?

The FAS45 Rebated Drop Down Seal is designed to seal gaps between the bottom of the door and the floor or threshold, ranging from 3mm to 13mm. This operating range helps the seal provide effective acoustic performance, smoke containment and draught reduction when the door is closed. The FAS45 is a rebated automatic drop seal that self-levels to the floor surface, making it suitable for a wide range of door installations. Always refer to the product datasheet and installation guidance to ensure the seal is suitable for your door set and application.

Can drop down seals be cut to fit the width of a door?

Yes, many drop-down seals and automatic drop seals can be trimmed to suit the width of the door during installation. The amount that can be cut will vary depending on the specific seal model and design. For detailed trimming allowances, fitting instructions and installation guidance, please refer to the product datasheet for the particular drop seal you are installing. Following the manufacturer’s instructions will help ensure the seal continues to perform as intended for acoustic, smoke and fire door applications.

Do drop down seals need to be used with a threshold plate?

No, drop-down seals and automatic drop seals do not necessarily require a threshold plate to function correctly. Whilst many drop seals are fire tested and acoustically tested with threshold plates, a threshold plate is not always required, depending on the application, floor finish and performance requirements. Threshold plates can help provide a consistent sealing surface and may improve acoustic, smoke or sealing performance in certain installations. Always refer to the product datasheet, fire test evidence and installation guidance to determine the most suitable configuration for your door set.

Do drop seals ‘Self Level’?

Yes, Drop Seals self level to the floor’s surface. Threshold plates can be ued to create an aesthetic finish or provide a flat contact area on uneven and irregular floors surfaces.

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