Why is a solid-core door required between the living area and the garage?

A solid-core door is primarily required between the living area and the garage because it acts as a fire retardant, providing added protection for occupants. This is crucial in residential safety measures, as garages often contain flammable materials such as gasoline, oil, and cleaning products. A solid-core door, typically made of thicker and denser material compared to hollow-core doors, can withstand fire and heat longer, thereby delaying the spread of flames and smoke into the living space. This delay can be vital for occupants to evacuate safely in the event of a fire.

The presence of a solid-core door also aligns with building codes and safety regulations aimed at protecting residents from fire hazards associated with garages. This requirement underscores the importance of safety over aesthetics, sound transmission, or energy efficiency, emphasizing that fire protection is a top priority in residential construction.