Are hollow core doors acceptable for basement bedrooms?

Hollow core doors are not acceptable for basement bedrooms in Ottawa - they don't meet the fire safety requirements under the Ontario Building Code for sleeping areas, especially in secondary suites or basement apartments.

For basement bedrooms, you need solid core doors with a minimum 20-minute fire rating. This requirement becomes even more critical if you're creating a secondary dwelling unit or rental suite, where fire separation between the basement unit and main house requires 45-minute rated assemblies. The door itself, along with proper fire-rated drywall and sealed penetrations, creates a crucial fire barrier that gives occupants time to escape safely.

Hollow core doors pose serious safety risks in basement bedrooms because they offer virtually no fire resistance and can fail within minutes of exposure to flames or high heat. In Ottawa's older homes, where basements often have only one exit route, every minute counts during an emergency. The Ontario Building Code specifically requires fire-rated doors for sleeping rooms in basement dwelling units, and this isn't just a suggestion - it's mandatory for both safety and insurance purposes.

From a practical Ottawa perspective, replacing hollow core doors with solid core fire-rated doors typically costs $200-400 per door including installation. While this might seem like an unnecessary expense, it's actually one of the most cost-effective safety upgrades you can make. Insurance companies may deny claims for basement bedroom fires if proper fire-rated doors weren't installed, and the City of Ottawa will flag this during any basement renovation inspection.

Professional installation ensures proper fit and sealing around the door frame, which is just as important as the door itself. The door needs to close completely and latch properly to maintain the fire rating. Self-closing hinges are often required in secondary suites to ensure the door automatically closes if left open.

If you're planning a basement bedroom renovation or converting your basement into a legal secondary suite, this door upgrade should be factored into your budget from the start. For a comprehensive basement finishing project that meets all Ontario Building Code requirements, contact Ottawa Basements for a free consultation - we ensure every safety detail is properly addressed.