How to Remove Tek Screws From Fire Damper Installs
Fire damper testing is a legal requirement under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, and BS 9999 recommends dampers are tested annually. However, one of the most common issues our engineers encounter is fire dampers that have been connected to the ductwork using self-tapping Tek screws. Whilst quick to install, these fixings can significantly increase the time required to inspect, test and maintain a damper.
This post explains why Tek screws can create problems, how to remove them safely, and what should be considered during installation to make future maintenance easier.
Why Tek screws are a problem
Tek screws – self-drilling, self-tapping screws – are widely used to connect fire dampers to ductwork because they are quick, inexpensive and require no pre-drilling. The problem comes when the damper needs to be removed, replaced or major remedial works are required.
Where a damper is fixed directly to the ductwork using multiple Tek screws:
- Each screw has to be removed individually, often whilst working in confined ceiling voids or service risers.
- The threads can damage the damper sleeve or ductwork, enlarging fixing holes each time the damper is removed and refitted.
- Screws are easily dropped or lost, creating unnecessary delays and leaving debris within ceiling voids.
- Removal and reinstatement become labour intensive, increasing the cost of maintenance and replacement works.
Across buildings containing hundreds of fire dampers, these additional minutes on every damper soon become days of extra labour. They also increase the likelihood of damaged ductwork and poorly reinstated connections.
Removing Tek screws safely
When removing an existing fire damper or disconnecting it from the ductwork, the objective is to remove the fixings without damaging either component.
- Use a cordless impact driver fitted with the correct bit. Most Tek screws have either a hex head or Phillips head. Applying steady pressure at a moderate speed usually removes them cleanly.
- If the head has rounded off, use locking pliers or a screw extractor to remove the fixing.
- For seized or corroded screws, apply penetrating oil and allow it time to work before attempting removal.
- Support the duct or damper where necessary to prevent movement once the final fixings are removed.
- Control metal swarf carefully. Any filings created when drilling out screws should be collected and prevented from entering the ventilation system.
Working methodically helps prevent unnecessary damage and makes reinstatement far easier.
A better installation method
Whilst Tek screws are widely used, consideration should be given to how the fire damper is connected to the ductwork.
Connections that are designed to allow easier removal and reinstatement can significantly reduce maintenance time over the life of the building whilst maintaining the integrity of the fire-rated installation. This is particularly important where dampers may need to be replaced due to damage, failure or refurbishment works.
Selecting the correct connection method during installation makes future servicing faster, reduces the risk of damaging the surrounding ductwork and minimises disruption when remedial works are required.
Get the connection right at installation
The easiest way to reduce future maintenance costs is to consider how the fire damper is connected before installation begins.
If you're specifying or overseeing a new installation:
- Select a connection method that allows the damper to be removed without causing unnecessary damage to the surrounding ductwork.
- Ensure the installation follows the fire damper manufacturer's tested installation details.
- Avoid unnecessary fixings where alternative approved connection methods are available.
- Consider the long-term maintenance requirements, not just the speed of the initial installation.
A little thought during installation can save many hours of labour over the lifetime of the building.
The compliance point
Whilst the regulations do not specify how a fire damper should be connected to the ductwork, they do require dampers to be maintained and tested throughout their service life.
Installing dampers in a way that unnecessarily complicates future maintenance increases costs, extends downtime and can make replacement works far more difficult than they need to be.
How Premier Compliance can help
Premier Compliance tests, maintains and replaces fire dampers across England and Wales. Our engineers regularly encounter installations where poor connection methods significantly increase maintenance time.
Where fire dampers have been connected to the ductwork using Tek screws, we can modify the installation by carefully cutting out the Tek-screwed section and replacing it with a removable section of ductwork. This provides a permanent maintenance solution, allowing the fire damper to be removed, inspected, tested, maintained or replaced in the future without damaging the surrounding ductwork or repeatedly removing dozens of self-tapping screws.
Our removable duct sections help reduce maintenance time, minimise disruption during future inspections and make damper replacement far more straightforward over the lifetime of the building.
Whether you require routine fire damper testing, remedial works, damper replacements or advice on improving existing installations, Premier Compliance can help ensure your fire dampers remain compliant, maintainable and fit for purpose throughout their service life.