Corrosion-resistant doors are found in a wide range of commercial, medical and research settings where a sterile environment is necessary, including hospitals, labs, restaurants, manufacturing operations and food processing companies, research facilities and pharmaceutical companies. These doors must be washed down and sterilized with harsh chemicals to keep them free of viruses and bacteria. Doors installed in this type of environment need to be able to stand up to repeated exposures to cleaning solutions.
Corrosion can also occur when doors are exposed to the elements. Commercial doors in a coastal environment should resist salt-water corrosion, while doors that come into contact with water, either in flooding or during normal operation, such as in a car wash, shouldn’t be susceptible to rust. Two materials for commercial doors that are tried and true are fiberglass and steel. Both of these materials have the ability to be used in several contexts. For instance, exterior steel doors make great security doors for the outside of any business, but they’re also great in interior contexts like those hospitals, labs and research facilities we just mentioned. Fiberglass is also versatile because it’s a composite material. It’s also useful for security doors, overhead doors and other commercial applications. Let’s take a closer look at both:
Fiberglass Doors in Commercial Settings
One of the best materials for resisting corrosion, indoors or out, is fiberglass. Fiberglass laminate commercial doors not only last decades, unlike steel and wood doors, but are also manufactured in such a way that both interior and exterior fiberglass doors present a strong front against corrosive agents, be they from weather or chemicals. Plus, fiberglass commercial doors have gel-coated skins, with a smooth finish that seals and protects the door from corrosive agents. Single-panel construction means there are no cavities or voids on the surface to harbor bacteria or other contaminants, while the gel coat helps prevent mold and mildew buildup. The surface never needs painting and can be washed with soap and water.
Steel Doors Have Infinite Applications
For businesses operating in damp environments – boat yards, docks, marinas, coastal commercial operations, chemical store houses, car washes, pool houses and agricultural storage facilities — where exterior steel garage doors and door hardware may be necessary, the business owner may opt for powder-coated tracks and face hardware to resist corrosion. Powder-coated steel is not as resistant to corrosion as stainless steel, but will offer more protection than standard galvanized metal. Business owners may also choose stainless steel tracks, hardware, and stainless steel nylon rollers with sealed bearings, as well as stainless steel cables.
Meet with a Sacs Doors consultant and discuss the installation of a corrosion-resistant door or overhead door in your business.