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Self-closing door

A self-closing door is a door that automatically closes after it opens, often used between a garage and a home.

Framing and Structure

Why it matters

A closed door reduces smoke and fume transfer and improves fire safety.

Where people get this wrong

A fire-rated door does not help much if it is propped open. Door latching matters. A door must close and latch to do its job.

Real-world example

You carry groceries from the garage and the door swings shut behind you. That small behavior prevents the garage smell from creeping into the house over time.

Where this hits your build

This shows up during framing. Once walls are up and covered, you lose access. The pre-drywall walkthrough is your window to verify.

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