Understanding the Anatomy of a Commercial Door

Commercial doors are essential components of any business or public building, providing security, safety, and access control. At CDF Distributors, we specialize in high-quality commercial doors and hardware. In this post, we'll break down the anatomy of a typical commercial door to help you understand its key components and their functions.

1. Door Slab

The door slab is the main body of the door. It can be made from various materials, including:

• Steel: Durable and secure, ideal for exterior doors
• Wood: Attractive and versatile, often used for interior doors

2. Frame

The frame surrounds the door slab and supports it. It typically consists of:

• Head: The horizontal top part of the frame
• Jambs: The vertical sides of the frame
• Threshold: The bottom part of the frame, which the door closes against

3. Hinges

Hinges connect the door slab to the frame, allowing it to swing open and closed. Commercial doors often use:

• Butt hinges: Traditional hinges with two leaves
• Continuous hinges: Also known as piano hinges, running the full length of the door

4. Hardware

Essential hardware components include:

• Locks: Provide security and access control
• Door closers: Ensure the door closes automatically after opening
• Panic bars: Allow for quick exit in emergency situations
• Door stops: Prevent the door from opening too far and damaging walls

5. Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping seals the gaps around the door to:

• Improve energy efficiency
• Reduce noise transmission
• Prevent drafts and moisture infiltration

6. Glazing

Many commercial doors include glass panels or windows, which:

• Allow natural light to enter
• Provide visibility for safety and security
• Enhance the aesthetic appeal of the door

7. Kick Plate

A kick plate is a protective panel installed at the bottom of the door to:

• Prevent damage from foot traffic
• Resist scratches and dents
• Extend the life of the door

Understanding these components helps you make informed decisions when selecting, installing, or maintaining commercial doors. At CDF Distributors, we offer a wide range of high-quality doors and hardware to meet your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more about our products and how we can help you find the perfect anatomy for your commercial door for your business.