Proper door hardware is crucial for any business's safety, security, and convenience. Everything from the hinges to the door closers and shoes is important for properly functioning business doors. Here, we'll look at typical business door hardware, including commercial door hinges, closers, and shoes.

Commercial Door Hinges

Commercial door hinges are heavy-duty hinges designed to withstand frequent use and support the weight of commercial doors. They provide stability and smooth operation, allowing doors to open and close seamlessly. There are various types of commercial door hinges available, including:

  • Continuous Hinges: Also known as piano hinges, continuous hinges run the full length of the door, providing continuous support and evenly distributing the door's weight. They are commonly used in high-traffic areas such as schools, hospitals, and office buildings.
  • Ball Bearing Hinges: Ball bearing hinges are equipped with ball bearings between the hinge knuckles, enabling smoother operation and reducing friction. These hinges are ideal for heavy doors, such as commercial entrances or industrial settings.
  • Spring Hinges: Spring hinges are self-closing hinges that automatically return the door to its closed position. They are commonly used in areas where it is important to ensure that doors are always closed, such as fire-rated doors or doors leading to stairwells.

Commercial Door Closer

Door closers are hydraulic devices that control the speed and force with which a door closes. They provide convenience, safety, and energy efficiency in commercial spaces. Here are three common types of commercial door closers:

  • Surface-mounted Door Closers: Surface-mounted closers are the most common type. They are installed on the surface of the door frame and offer a wide range of adjustment options for controlling the door's closing speed and latching action.
  • Concealed Door Closers: Concealed closers are installed inside the door or frame, making them virtually invisible when the door is closed. They provide a sleek and aesthetically pleasing appearance while maintaining the functionality of a door closer.
  • Overhead Door Closers: Overhead closers are installed at the top of the door and are often used for heavy or high-traffic doors. They offer adjustable closing and latching speeds, making them suitable for various commercial applications.

Door Shoe

Door shoes, also known as door sweeps or automatic door bottoms, are weatherstripping devices installed at the bottom of doors to seal against drafts, dust, noise, and insects. In commercial settings, door shoes are crucial in maintaining energy efficiency, ensuring privacy, and improving overall comfort. Common types include:

  • Aluminum Shoes are durable and corrosion-resistant, making them suitable for heavy traffic areas. They provide an effective seal while withstanding constant use and wear.
  • Vinyl Shoes are flexible and offer excellent sealing capabilities. They are often used in areas where sound insulation is a priority, such as conference rooms or offices.
  • Brush Shoes consist of bristles or brushes that create a seal against drafts while allowing smooth door movement. They are commonly used in commercial spaces where there is frequent foot traffic.

Commercial Locks

Locks are an essential component of commercial door hardware, providing security and access control. Different types of locks cater to the varying security needs of commercial spaces:

  • Mortise Locks: Mortise locks are highly durable and commonly used in commercial settings. These locks are recessed into the door and provide a high level of security, making them ideal for exterior doors and high-traffic areas.
  • Cylindrical Locks: Cylindrical locks are installed through the door and are easier to install than mortise locks. They are commonly used in office spaces, restrooms, and interior doors.
  • Electronic Locks: Electronic locks use keypads, keycards, or biometric systems for entry, providing advanced security features. They are popular in office buildings, hotels, and institutions requiring controlled access.

Door Stops and Holders

Door stops and holders prevent doors from damaging walls or swinging freely in high-traffic areas. These devices are essential for maintaining both the integrity of the doors and the safety of the space.

  • Floor-mounted Door Stops: Installed on the floor, these stops are designed to prevent doors from hitting walls or furniture.
  • Wall-mounted Door Stops: These stops are installed on the wall to prevent damage when the door swings open.
  • Magnetic Door Holders: These holders keep doors open using magnetic force and can be released either manually or automatically. They are commonly used in fire-rated doors or areas where doors need to stay open for extended periods.

Kick Plates and Push Plates

Kick plates and push plates protect the door surface from damage and wear, particularly in areas where doors are subject to frequent use.

  • Kick Plates: Installed at the bottom of doors, kick plates protect the door from being scuffed by foot traffic, carts, or equipment. They are commonly used in kitchens, hospitals, and other high-traffic commercial spaces.
  • Push Plates:: Push plates are installed on the door surface where people frequently push the door to open it. They prevent wear and tear on the door and are often used on non-latching doors in offices or public buildings.

Panic Bars

Panic bars, also known as crash bars, are essential safety features for emergency exits in commercial buildings. They allow people to quickly open doors by simply pushing against the bar, ensuring a fast and easy exit during emergencies.

  • Rim Exit Devices: These surface-mounted devices are commonly used for single or double doors and provide quick exit capabilities in high-traffic or emergency situations.
  • Mortise Exit Devices: Mortise exit devices combine the benefits of panic bars with high-security mortise locks, offering both safety and protection for doors that require strict access control.

Conclusion

The right door hardware is an absolute must for businesses to run efficiently, securely, and economically. Their hinges, closers, and shoes are part and parcel of the effective operation and performance of commercial doors. 

You may improve your commercial doors' security, convenience, and lifespan by making educated judgments after learning about the various types and their respective uses. Buy these quality door hardware only at Park Avenue Locks.