When selecting the right commercial doors for your building, the choice of door closer is just as important as the door itself. Door closers help regulate traffic flow, improve security, and reduce wear and tear. Two of the most common options are hold-open and non-hold-open door closers. Understanding the differences between them will help you decide which is the best fit for your space.
Quick Answer: Hold-Open vs Non-Hold-Open Door Closers
A hold-open door closer allows a commercial door to remain open once it reaches a specified angle, typically between 90 and 110 degrees. A non-hold-open door closer automatically returns the door to the closed position after every use. Hold-open door closers are commonly used in retail stores, conference rooms, and high-traffic areas, while non-hold-open door closers are preferred for exterior doors, offices, and secure spaces where the door should remain closed.
What Is a Hold-Open Door Closer?
A hold-open door closer is designed to keep the door open once it has passed the 90–110-degree angle. The hold-open function can easily be overridden by pushing the door toward the closed position, at which point the closer automatically shuts the door.
Benefits of Hold-Open Closers:
-
Ideal for high-traffic areas where doors frequently stay open
-
Great for retail spaces, lobbies, and showrooms that should feel open and inviting
-
Useful when moving large equipment, inventory, or furniture through the doorway
-
Reduces wear from repeated opening and closing
If your business prioritizes accessibility and convenience, a hold-open closer may be the better option.
What Is a Non-Hold-Open Door Closer?
A non-hold-open closer automatically closes the door after it passes the 90–110-degree threshold. These closers are best for areas where security, privacy, or climate control is a priority.
Benefits of Non-Hold-Open Closers:
-
Keeps sensitive areas secure
-
Maintains temperature control, reducing energy costs
-
Provides added privacy for offices, apartments, and restricted spaces
-
Often preferred for entrances and exits to prevent doors from being left open
If your building requires stricter access control or is located in a region with extreme weather, non-hold-open closers offer better performance.
| Feature | Hold-Open Door Closer | Non-Hold-Open Door Closer |
|---|---|---|
| Keeps Door Open | Yes, door remains open once it reaches the hold-open position. | No, door automatically closes after every use. |
| Security | Lower, since doors can remain open for extended periods. | Higher, because the door automatically returns to the closed position. |
| Energy Efficiency | May allow conditioned air to escape when left open. | Helps maintain interior temperatures and reduce energy loss. |
| Traffic Flow | Ideal for high-traffic areas and moving equipment. | Best for controlled access and lower-traffic areas. |
| Common Applications | Retail stores, conference rooms, lobbies, showrooms, warehouses. | Office doors, exterior entrances, apartment buildings, storage rooms, secure areas. |
Where Should Each Type Be Used?
Both door closers serve important purposes, and many businesses use a mix of the two. Here are some common use cases:
-
Entryways: Non-hold-open closers are typically preferred for commercial entrances to improve security and energy efficiency. However, small retail shops may appreciate a hold-open closer to encourage foot traffic.
-
Emergency Exits: Either option can be used, depending on whether the door doubles as a frequently used exit.
-
Interior Doors: Use non-hold-open closers for restricted areas like offices or storage rooms containing sensitive materials. Use hold-open closers for conference rooms or areas that benefit from an open flow of traffic.
Choosing Between Hold-Open and Non-Hold-Open Closers
Ultimately, there isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” answer. The right closer depends on how you plan to use your door:
-
Choose a hold-open closer if you want the flexibility of keeping the door open for long periods.
-
Choose a non-hold-open closer if your priority is keeping the door shut for security, energy efficiency, or privacy.
The good news is that door closers are relatively easy to swap out. If you choose one type now and later realize it doesn’t meet your needs, you can upgrade to a different closer without replacing the entire door.
Shop High-Quality Door Closers at CDF Distributors
Whether you need a hold-open door closer for a retail space or a non-hold-open closer for a secure entry, CDF Distributors has the hardware you need. We offer a wide selection of door closers and accessories designed for durability, safety, and performance.
Browse our catalog today and find the perfect solution for your commercial door installation.
