Types of Commercial Doors
Commercial doors are an essential component of any commercial building, serving as a crucial gateway for people and goods. From schools and stores to office buildings, these doors are specifically designed to withstand the rigors of high levels of traffic and abuse that are common in such environments. In contrast to residential doors, commercial doors are built to be more durable and robust, enabling them to endure constant usage without compromising their integrity.
One of the primary distinctions between commercial and residential doors is the stringent building code requirements that apply to the former. These regulations are aimed at ensuring safe egress, fire protection, and accessibility for disabled individuals. As commercial buildings are subject to frequent inspections, it becomes imperative to meet these code requirements in order to maintain compliance and ensure the safety and well-being of occupants.
Wood doors, commonly used on the interiors of commercial buildings, often exhibit a rich and aesthetic appearance. They are made from thin sheets of wood veneer wrapped around a solid composite core. The core material can vary, ranging from particle board and solid lumber to pressed mineral products like perlite and vermiculite. While these doors are visually appealing, they are not suitable for exterior applications as they have a tendency to fail when exposed to moisture or harsh weather conditions. Thus, wood doors are primarily selected based on their appearance rather than durability or security.
Hollow metal doors, on the other hand, are known for their strength and versatility, making them ideal for most exterior commercial applications. These doors are constructed by wrapping sheets of steel around a foam insulation, steel stiffeners, or a resinous honeycombed core. Despite being referred to as "hollow," they offer high-level security, longevity, and cost-effectiveness. While steel doors are predominantly used for the exterior, they may also find application in the interior of a building, particularly in areas that require heavy-duty and robust solutions, such as mechanical rooms.
As the emphasis on aesthetics has grown, aluminum and glass doors have gained popularity as entranceways in commercial structures. The sleek and clean appearance of aluminum, combined with the ability to allow natural light to permeate the building, makes these doors a favorable choice. Unlike metal or wood doors, aluminum and glass doors are relatively low-maintenance, as they do not require regular painting or staining. It is worth noting that these doors are installed in aluminum frames, which differ slightly from other door unit profiles. However, it is important to consider that aluminum assemblies may have fire-rating limitations, usually up to one hour, which may not comply with certain building codes.
Fiberglass doors have emerged as one of the most durable and long-lasting options for commercial openings. Their high resistance to wear and tear makes them particularly suitable for high-traffic and abusive environments. Many school districts opt for fiberglass doors as a means to reduce long-term replacement and maintenance costs. Although fiberglass units may be pricier compared to other materials, their longevity and minimal maintenance requirements justify the investment, ensuring the door's effectiveness over an extended period.
Full glass doors, with their decorative appearance and ability to allow copious amounts of natural light to penetrate the building, are primarily used for interior applications. The use of safety glass in their construction minimizes the risk of injury in case of breakage. These doors are often hung on pivots and may or may not require a frame. However, it is crucial to note that most glass doors do not possess fire-rated properties, which should be taken into consideration when planning their installation.
Lastly, overhead doors, commonly made from steel, serve a specific purpose in commercial settings such as loading docks and manufacturing facilities. With widths ranging from 8 to 10 feet and customizable heights, these doors facilitate the transportation of large objects into a building. Similar to garage doors, overhead doors coil up towards the ceiling and can be operated manually or automatically, depending on the user's preference.
In conclusion, commercial doors play a fundamental role in the functionality and safety of commercial buildings. The choice of door material depends on various factors, including location, purpose, aesthetic preferences, and compliance with building codes. Whether it is the rich appearance of wood doors or the durability of fiberglass doors, each material serves a specific purpose to meet the diverse requirements of commercial structures. Selecting the right door material ensures not only the longevity and security of the door but also contributes to the overall design and efficiency of the building.
Types of Commercial Doors may include metal doors, glass doors, automatic sliding doors, and revolving doors.
Here's a possible FAQ about fire door manufacturers:
Q: What qualifications should a fire door manufacturer possess?
A: A reputable fire door manufacturer should meet industry standards and regulations, be certified by organizations such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or Intertek, and have a proven track record of producing high-quality fire rated doors.
In conclusion, there are many types of commercial doors available to fit the specific needs of businesses. From sliding doors to revolving doors, each type offers unique benefits in terms of functionality, security, and aesthetics. It's important to carefully consider the needs of your business and choose the right commercial door for your space.
