Commercial Door Diagram – The Parts of a Door

Doors are not merely entryways; they are complex structures with various components that play crucial roles in functionality, security, and aesthetics. The terminology associated with these components can be overwhelming, but fear not!

Here is a comprehensive guide to help you understand the intricacies of commercial door openings, from single doors to double doors and everything in between.

Commercial Openings: Single and Double Doors Understanding the anatomy of a door begins with distinguishing between single and double doors.

Parts of a Door:

1. Door Opening:

   • The designated area within a frame where doors are installed, available in single or double configurations.
   • Doors crafted from various materials, including wood, hollow metal, stainless steel, aluminum, and more.
   • Specialty doors like double acting, bullet-resistant, fire-rated, hurricane-resistant, and sound-resistant are offered by LaForce. Custom doors and frames can also be manufactured in-house.

2. Active Leaf/Door and Inactive Leaf/Door:

   • Active leaf opens first and accommodates main operating hardware.
   • Inactive leaf opens after the active leaf and contains a strike to receive the lock/latchbolt of the active door.

3. Frame:

   • Surrounds the door on three sides, anchored to the wall, and available in various materials.
   • Custom frames designed and manufactured by LaForce to meet specific building needs.

4. Head (Of Frame) and Jamb (Of Frame):

   • Head is the horizontal portion above the door.
   • Jamb is the vertical frame component on either side of the door opening, forming the frame's perimeter.

5. Hinges:

   • Vital hardware allowing door swing, available in various types, including mortise, continuous, and spring.

6. Lock or Lock Set:

   • Complete latch assembly for door closure, including latch mechanism, cylinders, keys, and trim.

7. Strike:

   • Metal plate or box receiving the bolt or latch of the lock to keep the door shut.
   • Electric strikes available for remote control or access control equipment.

8. Closer:

   • Device attached to the top of the door regulating and controlling door swing.
   • Mechanical or electromagnetic options; essential for fire-rated doors.

9. Lite and Lite Kit:

   • Lites or vision panels are glazed openings allowing light passage.
   • Lite kits secure door lite glass in place, available in metal, wood, or veneered options.

10. Threshold and Sweep:

    • Thresholds close the gap between the door and the floor, aiding smooth transitions.
    • Sweeps, usually vinyl, seal the space beneath the door, keeping out cold air and elements.

11. Astragal:

    • Strip of material closing gaps between a pair of doors, requiring coordinators for proper sequencing.

12. Gasketing:

    • Seals the perimeter of the door opening, addressing environmental, sound, light, and smoke/fire control.

13. Exit Device:

    • Also known as panic hardware, facilitates fast egress during emergencies.

14. Louver:

    • Series of slats or blades at the bottom, allowing safe air passage through the door.

15. Protection Plate:

    • Metal plates at the bottom protecting against wear and tear.
    • Various types include Kick Plates, Mop Plates, Armor Plates, and Stretcher Plates.

Whether you're embarking on a new project, replacing locks, or ensuring ADA compliance, CDF Distributors is your go-to source for comprehensive door solutions. Our experts are ready to assist you in navigating the complexities of commercial doors. Contact us today and let's embark on your next project together!