Aluminum is a popular choice of material for many storefront doors. This is understandable thanks to their durability, lightweight nature, and low maintenance requirements. Yet, even the best quality aluminum entryways will begin to show signs of wear and tear. You’ll want to extend the lifespan of your commercial doors and get the most value out of your investment. It’s important to take preventative measures and perform regular maintenance. Here are some tips to help you maximize the lifespan of your aluminum storefront doors.
Why Aluminum Storefront Doors Still Require Maintenance
Even though commercial aluminum doors are known for their durability, they still rely on moving components to operate properly. Hinges, closers, locks, and other hardware experience regular wear, especially in commercial buildings where doors may open and close hundreds of times a day.
Routine maintenance helps prevent minor issues from becoming bigger problems. Checking door alignment, tightening hardware, and keeping moving parts in good condition can help ensure that doors continue to operate safely and reliably.
Aluminum Doors 101
Here’s how to maximize the lifespan and durability of your aluminum doors:
Choose High-Quality Hardware During Installation
One of the most important factors in the lifespan of your store’s doors is the quality of the hardware used. Cheap or low-quality hardware can break or wear down more quickly. This will always lead to increased repair costs and even unnecessary door damage. It’s worth investing in high-quality hinges, locks, and handles. Higher-quality hardware components help your aluminum doors withstand frequent use and exposure to the elements.
Keep Up with Your Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance are key to extending the lifespan of your aluminum doors. Storefront doors are put under constant duress and need plenty of work to extend their lifespan:
- Dirt, grime, and other debris can build up on the surface of the doors and hardware, leading to corrosion and damage over time. Use mild detergent and water to clean the doors and hardware regularly.
- Remove any standing water or moisture that may accumulate around the door frame.
- Lubricate the hinges and other moving parts of the door to keep them functioning smoothly.
- If you’re uncomfortable with any of this or unsure about performing maintenance yourself, contact professionals for assistance.
Regularly Inspect for Damage
Regular inspections are essential for addressing any damage to your store’s aluminum doors. Finding issues before they become a major issue is key to keeping costs down. Check for signs of wear and tear on the hardware, such as rust or corrosion. Inspect the door frame for any dents or scratches. If you notice any damage, take steps to repair or replace the affected components as soon as possible. Contact a professional to prevent further damage or safety hazards.
Install Weatherstripping
Another factor that can help the lifespan of your commercial entryway is weatherstripping. Weatherstripping helps to seal gaps and prevent drafts. This can reduce energy costs and improve comfort for occupants. It also helps prevent water and debris from entering the building through the door frame, further reducing the risk of damage to the doors and surrounding areas.
Signs Your Aluminum Storefront Door May Need Repair
Even well-maintained storefront doors can eventually develop issues, especially in busy commercial environments. Recognizing the early warning signs of a problem can help prevent further damage and keep your doors operating safely.
Some common indicators that an aluminum entrance door may need service include:
- The door doesn’t fully close or latch properly. This could mean issues with the closer, alignment, or latching hardware.
- The door drags along the threshold or frame. Misalignment or worn hinges can cause doors to run or stick when opening and closing.
- The door closes too quickly or slams shut. If your door closer is malfunctioning, it may need adjustment or replacement.
- Locks or panic hardware don’t engage. Difficulty locking or unlocking the door can indicate worn-down or misaligned hardware.
- The door feels loose or unstable. Loose hinges or mounting hardware can affect safety as well as performance.
If any of these issues appear, it’s best to address them promptly. Minor adjustments or repairs can restore aluminum doors to full functionality and prevent more extensive damage to the doorframe or entry system.
Know When It’s Time to Say Goodbye to Your Door
Finally, it’s important to know when it’s time to replace your aluminum door altogether. Even with regular maintenance and upkeep, all doors have a finite lifespan. Eventually, it may become more cost-effective to replace doors rather than continuing to repair them. There are several factors to consider when determining whether to replace your doors. These may include the age of the doors, the frequency of repairs needed, and changes in the needs or usage of the building over time. The lifespan of your store’s aluminum entryway depends on both regular maintenance and your installation. By investing in hardware, regular maintenance, inspections, adding weatherstripping, and knowing when to replace your doors, you can keep a smooth and working entryway. These simple things extend the lifespan of your doors and get the most value out of your investment. By taking these steps, you can keep your commercial doors looking and functioning their best for years to come.