Rich, I have seen this done a couple of times. its a lazy way and when exposed to head can swell on the surface of the architrave and cause the door to jamb in place. It is sometimes done whem retro fitting where there is a gap between the door and architrave and the intumescent strip fits in nicely. They should be routed into the door or the frame, or both in the case of double doors. This allows the swell to gap the 2-3mm without over swell. Kevin

I've been asked to supply a bit more detail. In a residential care home I do a bit of work for I have noticed that the intumescent strips have been glued to the architrave (door surround) and not routed into the door it self. I asked if this was right meaning is this acceptable to any BS Standard. Kevkel said it was a lazy way and could cause the door to jamb. Expert opinions sought please. Rich

I would take them out and get them fitted correctly. Kevkel is correct, it' just lazy. From my knowledge no manufactures of intumescent seals would state this would be an acceptable method of fitting and the products would not of been tested this way. Meaning there will be no fire test certification that demostrates this method of fitting is acceptable. However, there is a product that is surface mounted intumescent seal, so dont get confused with this. It's flatter and wider than normal intumescent seals. My advice would be, fing out what product has been fitted, speak with the manufacture and they will advise if fitted correctly.

mssy is absolutely correct - terminology got me. It's the door frame I'm talking about - silly me! Rich

If it was retro fitted is the "fitter" competent and qualified to do do such work? Anyone who installs fire door sets should be properly trained and certified otherwise things like this can happen. It takes more than just a joiner.