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Commercial Wood Door

Which Types of Commercial Doors Are the Easiest to Maintain?

02/07/23
by Wayne Foreman

Commercial doors often see heavy daily traffic. The more they’re used, the more likely they are to break. Broken commercial doors are an inconvenience to both your customers and your employees.

Fortunately, routine maintenance can keep these doors in top condition. To simplify the process, you'll want to look for doors that are easy to maintain. One good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that generally speaking, the higher the quality of the material, the more straightforward the maintenance process will be.

What Are Commercial Door Materials? 

Commercial doors are designed for properties like office buildings, stores, schools, and hospitals. They’re highly durable and capable of withstanding high traffic volumes and extreme environmental conditions. The most common materials used for commercial doors are: 

  • Wood
  • Steel
  • Glass 
  • Aluminum
  • Fiberglass 

Along with pure function, the material you choose for your commercial space will depend on your desired aesthetic.

Importance of Commercial Door Maintenance 

While you can address many problems with your commercial door after they occur, preventing them ensures full function and safety. Benefits of a preventive maintenance program for your commercial door include: 

  • Minimizing downtime
  • Maintaining a safe work environment 
  • Reducing long-term repair costs 
  • Ensuring that the door operates properly 
  • Prolonging the door’s lifespan

Routine commercial door maintenance is crucial to your company's long-term success and growth. 

Commercial Door Material Maintenance 

Effective commercial door maintenance can mean the difference between adding repairs to your expense list and avoiding unnecessary costs. But which type of commercial door is the easiest to maintain?

Wood Doors 

Wooden doors often require high maintenance due to their susceptibility to degradation from temperature changes, moisture, and environmental factors.

For example, temperature changes cause wood to expand and contract, leading to warping and leaks. These issues must be addressed to prevent further problems like drafts and swelling. 

Steel Doors 

During manufacturing, steel doors are coated with a special finish that protects them from corrosion. External factors may cause rust to accumulate when there are chips or cracks in the coating. These weakened areas must be repaired to prevent further damage.

If you live in a colder region, your door’s springs and hinges will likely also require routine lubrication to prevent them from freezing or breaking.  

Glass Doors 

Glass doors can make a beautiful addition to any commercial entryway. However, they may get small splinters or cracks that can become an issue over time. These imperfections weaken the glass, making it more susceptible to breakage and creating a safety risk for anyone using the door.  

Routine maintenance for glass windows includes a thorough washing prior to inspection. Regular inspections allow you to identify minor issues before they have a chance to become major concerns.

Aluminum Doors 

Aluminum doors require less treatment than wooden and metal doors, making them low maintenance.

These doors are sturdy and durable and don’t require special paints or coatings. However, their hardware can still deteriorate over time, affecting the performance of the door and demanding repairs or upgrades.

Fiberglass Doors 

Fiberglass commercial doors are the ideal solution for businesses looking for an easy-to-maintain entry solution. This material doesn't expand and contract due to temperature changes, meaning it’s perfect for facilities exposed to hot, cold, or wet weather.

Maintenance Tips for Any Commercial Door 

Although professional services are available to assist with your commercial door maintenance, you don't have to wait for a technician. You can identify potential problems before they arise by following these simple maintenance tips.

Check for Signs of Damage 

Inspect your door regularly for dents, cracks, and other structural imperfections, and listen for unusual sounds like squeaking or clicking as the door opens and closes.

Test Control Switches 

Some commercial doors have control switches or activation devices. You should test these frequently to ensure they are functioning properly. If you notice a delayed response, your door or one of its mechanisms may need attention.    

Clean and Lubricate 

Hinges, latches, sliders, and rollers require periodic cleaning and lubricating. Applying an appropriate lubricant to these pieces will protect them from corrosion, moisture, and everyday wear and tear.

Do You Have Questions About Commercial Doors? 

Still have questions about commercial door maintenance? CDF Distributors is happy to help! Contact us today to get the answers you’re looking for or learn about our commercial door products.

 

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