Commodity Classification for Vinyl Door Storage?

10/24/2025

Hello, I am trying to figure out what commodity classification vinyl doors are.

I am designing a fire sprinkler system for a warehouse that stores doors and windows with the main materials being wood, glass, and vinyl. Doing a google search vinyl doors are typically made out of PVC (polyvinyl chloride).

NFPA 13 - 2019 - Table A.20.4(b) lists the following: PVC (polyvinyl chloride) products, up to 20 percent plasticizer - Class III PVC (polyvinyl chloride) products, greater than 20 percent plasticizer - Group A Nonexpanded

Table A.20.4.3 Examples of Class III Commodities has Furniture; wood (doors, windows, cabinets, etc.);

So I'm thinking the next question that I need to ask is how much plasticizer is used in vinyl doors?

I'm thinking it is less than 20% and use Class III.

Any thoughts? Thank you!

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5 Comments

Franck

10/24/2025 08:21:27 am

I’m afraid you will have to ask the manufacturer.
In your situation, the plastifier % can be anything from 10 to 40%.
Plastifier is used to make pvc softer and less susceptible to break apart. Rigid PVC is generally 10-25% while softer PVC can be 20-40%.

If you want to stay on the conservative side, consider it as more than 20% (as you should be close to that limit anyway).

This being said, your final classification may not be a Group A plastic anyway, as it will depend on the % of volume and % of weight of plastic in your door assembly and you may end up with a class IV commodity for your windows and doors.

Check also the possible aggravating factor if the stored products are completely wrapped in plastic sheet (encapsulated).

Glenn Berger

10/24/2025 08:32:05 am

You also need to know the configuration of the storage. The height of the facility vs. the height of storage and then the arrangement of storage.

Justin Reid

10/24/2025 08:56:11 am

Be sure to talk to the owner as well about what their future needs are. I understand wanting to limit to a lower classification but in my opinion you should design for future flexibility and design to the upper limits of your water supply.

Jesse

10/24/2025 10:20:13 am

I'd be really hesitant to call this a Class III without some really solid documentation. The plasticizer content can be up to 40%.

While the actual composition may not out you into Group A Plastic, Class III may be an underestimation. Additionally, you need to consider packaging material and any plastic pallets in use or idle.

With high piled storage I always default to the higher side.

Jack G

10/24/2025 03:17:23 pm

Under 20%=0.2 class3
Over 20% class 4
You need to have the manufacturer give you the composition sheet for the doors
Over 40 % high hazard

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Commodity Classification for Vinyl Door Storage?

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