Whether it’s your storefront doors, security entrances, or the overhead doors at your loading dock, you rely on them for a lot. Operation, security, convenience, safety – and at the same time, you put those doors through a lot of use. Regular wear and tear is normal to some extent, but improper care and/or neglect makes your chances of actual door damage skyrocket. And then you’re stuck with a commercial door replacement you shouldn’t have need and all its associated costs.
The good news is, if your commercial door sustains damage, SACS DOOR & GATE CORP stands ready to repair it quickly, correctly and affordably. But the best approach to door damage is to prevent it from happening in the first place by giving it the proper attention (or having us do it for you!).
Here are some of the biggest mistakes people make with their commercial doors, and the simple steps you can take to avoid them:
Failing to Keep Entry Doors Properly Aligned
Overlooking the importance of aligning storefront doors can lead to a host of issues that businesses should avoid. Whether it’s a misalignment during the initial installation or allowing a door to gradually fall out of alignment over time, the consequences can be troublesome.
Misalignment is a common trigger for damage in all types of commercial doors. When a door is out of alignment, it may become stuck within its frame, leading to issues such as chipping, bends, or even breakage. The constant use of commercial doors further accelerates the rate of such damage.
If you notice that your exterior door is becoming increasingly challenging to open, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly. Neglecting misalignment concerns is a risk that will likely lead to worse problems. By taking proactive measures and seeking professional assistance, you can ensure the continued function of your commercial doors.
Letting an Exterior Door Swing Open too Easily or Wide
Ensuring that an exterior door doesn’t swing open too easily or too wide is a crucial consideration for businesses. This is especially true with those with street-front doors that open outward. Preventing these doors from colliding with your outer wall is essential to avoid damage. Glass storefront doors can suffer a damage quickly from this repeated collision. It can cause cracks or shatter the glass entirely if left unattended for too long.
One effective solution is to consider adding a wall bumper to cushion the impact when the door is opened with force. This simple addition can reduce the risk of damage and the subsequent repair costs.
Moreover, investing in a hydraulic door closer is another worthwhile consideration. This device not only slows down the speed at which the door swings shut but also enhances safety and convenience. It’s a valuable addition that not only minimizes repair costs but also ensures compliance with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards. Compliance will only make your swinging commercial doors more accessible and user-friendly. It’s a net positive that will make for a better storefront entryway for you and your customers.
Cluttering up Your Storefront Entryway
Maintaining an unobstructed and clutter-free storefront doorway should be a focus for businesses. When placing objects like standup signs or potted plants near your business’ doors, make sure that they do not impede the door’s swing when it opens. While this may seem like a straightforward precaution, overlooking it can result in regrets. Such oversights may lead to damage to either your door, the obstacle, or both.
The significance of this precaution is amplified when dealing with glass storefront doors. A cluttered entryway not only poses safety risks but also detracts from the aesthetic appeal of your business. Furthermore, a shattered glass door is not only an unsightly event but also a costly one to replace. Prioritizing a clear and well-maintained entryway is a sensible measure. It enhances safety, minimizes repair expenses, and preserves the attractive appearance of your storefront.
Trying DIY Repair on Your Business’ Doors
When something goes wrong with your commercial door, unless the repair is extremely simple, you’re probably better off calling in a professional to address it rather than doing it yourself. If you do the repair right, you’ve saved yourself some money, of course. But if you do it wrong, you may make the problem significantly worse, and end up paying more in the end to get it fixed properly.
As well, some door and gate opening systems, as well as some commercial glass doors, come with warranties. Warranties have conditions, one of which is usually that DIY door repairs void your warranty. Depending on what kind of door you’re dealing with – glass, for example, or one with mechanical moving parts – it can even be hazardous to the safety of you or whatever employee is trying to repair it.
Avoid the Costs of Commercial Door Repair
Your storefront doors do a lot of work, between having to function well with high-traffic use and having to look good doing it. You can drastically reduce the chances of having a broken overhead door or jammed sliding glass door on your hands with a bit of care and some regular maintenance.
Some ways you can do this yourself are:
- Checking for signs of wear and tear. Some visible changes would be cracks in the door’s glass or loose hinges. Replacing or repairing the glass early is cheaper than the damage a broken door can cause.
- Inspect your weatherstripping to ensure it is in good condition. If your seal is compromised, it can influence your energy efficiency and ability to close. An easy and cheap door repair for a professional. If you’re feeling up to it, you can replace the weatherstripping on a commercial door yourself but it may take longer and disrupt your business.
- Lubricating moving parts such as your hinges and door closers. Doing this regularly will keep them functioning smoothly. Keeping your businesses’ door smooth and functional is always important for clients.
- Cleaning the door and its surrounding area to prevent dirt or debris buildup. This can damage your seal, get stuck in your hinges, or scuff your door. Add cleaning your entryway doors to your daily opening checklist. A quick check and a cloth can go a long way.
- Testing the door’s locking mechanism to ensure it is working. A nonfunctional or inconsistent lock can cause unnecessary force or promote break ins. Either scenario isn’t desirable, and you should check your lock systems on a regular basis.
- Checking for any damage to the frame that could compromise the structural integrity of the door. This can mean dents in metal, glass shifting or even misalignment. Dealing with this early will help keep down costs. Contact a professional door repair team immediately for this.
Using a local exterior door installer for routine maintenance is a prudent choice for businesses. Exterior doors naturally experience wear and settling over time. As a result, having a professional with a keen eye on hand can significantly extend their lifespan and performance. By entrusting the maintenance of your doors to a local expert, you ensure that any emerging issues are promptly addressed. This proactive approach not only preserves the function of your doors but also minimizes the risk of more substantial repairs down the line.
Should you ever have questions or uncertainties about addressing potential commercial door problems at your business, our team is readily available to provide guidance. Our team is dedicated to supporting your door-related needs with.