What are door closers and how do they work?

They return a door to the closed position in a controlled way after it’s been opened. They keep fire doors shut so they can do their job, stop doors slamming on busy routes and help manage draughts and access on internal and external doors. Using a spring to pull the door shut and hydraulic damping to control the speed, the door closes smoothly rather than slamming. Adjustable models let you fine tune the closing speed and latching action, and features like backcheck and soft close manage the action further.

Which doors need closers?

Fire doors need a compliant self closing action so they stay shut. Beyond that, door closers are commonly used on corridor and access doors, plant and store rooms, and high traffic doors in commercial buildings where controlled, reliable closing matters.

Are adjustable door closers better than fixed ones?

Adjustable door closers let you set the closing speed and latching action on site, so you can match the performance to how the building is used and reduce slamming. That flexibility is useful where one fixed setting wouldn’t suit the door or the traffic it sees.

What power size door closer do I need for a standard fire door?

For standard 44mm thick fire doors weighing up to 60kg, a fixed power size EN 3 or variable EN 2–4 overhead door closers unit is typically required to ensure the door leaf closes fully against the latch bolt and intumescent frame seals.

Are hold-open door closers legal on fire doors?

Standard mechanical hold-open closers are not permitted on fire doors because they prevent the door from closing automatically during a fire. However, electromagnetic hold-open closers connected to the building's fire alarm system are compliant, as they release instantly upon alarm activation.

Door Closers | Fire Door Closer

Learn more about door closers

A door closer is a mechanical device, usually spring loaded with hydraulic damping, that returns a door to the closed position at a controlled speed. It keeps fire doors shut so they can do their job and helps manage how doors close on busy routes.

Typical uses

Commercial offices and corridors: Regulating high traffic flow while maintaining compartmentation across office floors.
Multi-occupancy residential flat entrances: Equipping internal entrance fire doors in apartment blocks to meet fire regulations.
Public buildings and schools: Installing robust backcheck closers to prevent door slam damage and control student movement.

How to choose the right door closer

EN power size selection: Match the closer power rating to your door weight and width - EN 3 is standard for typical 44mm fire doors up to 60kg, while EN 4 or variable EN 2–5 closers suit heavier 54mm commercial doors up to 80kg.
Fire rating and certification: Always ensure chosen closers carry valid CE/UKCA marking and Certifire approval compliant with BS EN 1154 for use on certified fire door assemblies.
Adjustment features: Select closers featuring independent sweep speed, latching action, and delayed action valves to prevent door slamming and assist accessible entry under BS 8300 accessibility guidelines.

Before you order

Check your door leaf width, weight, and mounting frame reveal depth to confirm arm bracket compatibility. Make sure you have all the necessary components when installing a fire door, including fire-rated hinges, intumescent seals, door handles, other ironmongery, and any safety signage you may need.

Explore our range of door closers

Browse fire door closers in one place, with a choice of power ratings and types of closing mechanisms on offer. Start with the door closer type that suits the job, then use the product specifications to check spring size and suitability for the door set.

Whether you’re fitting out a commercial building or replacing a single closer, you can check stock and order online with ease. If you need your order quickly, we offer a free Click & Collect service so you can pick up your order when you need it. With hundreds of branches nationwide you’ll find a Travis Perkins branch near you.

FAQs about door closers

What are door closers and how do they work?
Which doors need closers?
Are adjustable door closers better than fixed ones?
What power size door closer do I need for a standard fire door?
Are hold-open door closers legal on fire doors?

Door Closers

Category

Brand

Reviews

Type

Finish

Maximum load

Pack quantity

Width

Length

Includes

Material

Colour

£49.64

£7.03

£6.46

£23.66

£12.52

£11.48

£57.35

£54.48

£88.43

£93.22

£150.59

£143.06

£12.52

£11.50

£2.02

£1.86

£83.11

£78.94