Key Takeaways:
- Smart locks can work – Yes, you can install smart locks on fire-rated steel doors, but they must meet the same fire safety standards.
- Not all smart locks qualify – Residential locks (like Apple Home or Google Assistant models) often won’t cut it. Look for fire-rated commercial options.
- Power matters – Smart locks must have battery backups or fail-safe modes to unlock during emergencies.
- Door type affects compatibility – Swing doors, pivot doors, and bi-fold doors may need different lock styles.
- Always check codes – Local building codes and safety regulations may have extra rules for smart locks on fire doors.
Smart locks are everywhere these days. From homes to offices, people love the convenience of keyless entry and remote access. But if you’re working with fire-rated steel doors, you might be wondering—can you even use smart locks on them? The short answer is yes, but there are some important things to consider. At Euroline Steel Windows and Doors, we get this question a lot, especially from architects and builders who want to blend modern tech with top-tier safety.
Why Fire-Rated Steel Doors Are Different
First, let’s talk about what makes fire-rated doors special. These aren’t your average exterior doors or barn doors. They’re built to resist flames and smoke, giving people more time to escape during a fire. That means they’re thicker, heavier, and made with materials like stainless steel that can handle extreme heat.
Because of this, not every lock will work. Fire-rated doors must meet strict safety regulations, and adding a smart lock can’t mess with that. The lock you choose must be tested and approved for use on fire-rated doors, or it could void the door’s rating.
How Smart Locks Work with Fire-Rated Doors
Most smart locks fall into two categories: deadbolts and mortise locks. Deadbolts are simpler and often easier to install, but mortise locks are sturdier and more common on commercial-grade doors. For fire-rated steel doors, you’ll usually need a mortise-style smart lock that’s been tested for fire resistance.
Some smart locks, like those from Apple Home or Google Assistant-compatible models, are designed for residential use and won’t cut it for fire-rated applications. But there are heavy-duty options, like digital lock systems made for commercial spaces, that can work if they’re certified.
The key is to check the lock’s fire rating and make sure it matches the door’s rating. If your door is rated for 90 minutes, the lock must be too.
Top Smart Lock Options for Fire-Rated Steel Doors
At Euroline Steel Windows and Doors, we’ve seen a growing demand for tech-friendly fire-rated doors. Here are a few ways to make it work:
- Fire-Rated Smart Mortise Locks – These are the gold standard. They fit into the door’s existing mortise pocket and often come with features like remote access and audit trails. Brands like Salto and Assa Abloy offer options that meet building codes.
- Surface-Mounted Smart Locks – Less common but easier to install, these attach to the door’s surface. Just make sure they’re UL-listed for fire doors.
- Retrofitting Existing Locks – Some smart lock systems can be added to traditional fire-rated hardware, like single-point locks, without replacing the whole mechanism.
No matter which route you take, always double-check the specs with the lock manufacturer and the door supplier. Mixing and matching without approval can compromise safety.
Balancing Tech and Safety
One big concern with smart locks on fire-rated doors is power. If the lock runs on batteries, what happens during a fire? Many fire-rated smart locks have backup power options or fail-safe modes that unlock the door if power is lost. That’s crucial for meeting safety regulations.
Another thing to think about is the door’s operation. Swing doors, pivot doors, and bi-fold doors all move differently, and not every smart lock works with every style. For example, a double-swinging door might need a specialized lock that can handle movement in both directions.
And let’s not forget aesthetics. Fire-rated steel doors often go into high-end spaces where looks matter. Luckily, many smart locks come in finishes that match the natural beauty of stainless steel or Aluminum-clad wood designs.
What Architects and Builders Should Know
If you’re designing or installing a building with fire-rated steel doors, here’s the bottom line:
- Check the Ratings – The smart lock must have the same fire rating as the door.
- Think About Power – Battery backups or fail-safe modes are a must.
- Match the Hardware – Not all smart locks work with all door types (like bifold doors or French doors).
- Follow Codes – Local building codes might have extra rules about smart locks on fire doors.
At Euroline Steel Windows and Doors, we offer a wide range of fire-rated steel doors, from Modern steel windows to Prefabricated doors, and we can help you find the right smart lock solution.
Smart Security Meets Fire Safety – The Perfect Pair
Smart locks and fire-rated steel doors can work together—if you do it right. The tech is there, but safety always comes first. Whether you’re working on a sleek office building or a high-security facility, the right combo of door and lock keeps people safe without sacrificing convenience.
Ready to explore your options? Check out our broad range of fire-rated specialty doors and smart lock-compatible hardware. Because when it comes to safety and tech, you shouldn’t have to choose.
Visit us to see how we blend smart tech with fireproof safety.
