Preventing Water Damage to Commercial Doors

Water intrusion can wreak havoc on commercial structures, and doors are often the first components to suffer. Water-damaged doors cannot be ignored, not just because they look bad, but because they can lead to mold and cause adverse health effects for those working and visiting the building. The damaged door will also deteriorate over time and show signs of: 

• Corrosion 

• Wrapped frames

• Damaged hardware

• Structural issues

In flood-prone or heavy-rain environments, every drip counts. This article will walk you through the key strategies for choosing the right doors, sealing them properly, maintaining them, and performing routine upkeep.

Before you even mount hinges or install frames, the first line of defense is choosing doors and materials designed to resist water damage. When dealing with doors that are likely to be placed on the exterior of a property or in locations prone to flood, corrosion-resistant materials are a suitable option. 

These can include doors with materials that hold up far better under repeated exposure to the elements, such as:

• Aluminum

• Stainless steel

• Fiberglass

You can also opt for flood-rated or weather-tight doors that feature integral seals, water barriers, and reinforced edges. Some commercial doors are specifically engineered to withstand wind-driven rain and prevent water intrusion. It’s also important to ensure that your door selection complies with building codes, including flood zones and storm-resistance standards.

No matter how sturdy a door is, if it is not sealed properly, water will find its way in. To prevent water damage, install durable weatherstripping and door gaskets along all edges to block water from entering. You can also use caulk at joints or corners for added protection. Pay attention to the smaller details too and seal door hardware penetrations, hinge holes, locksets, and bolt holes internally.

Water tends to collect before it finds its way inside, so the key is to guide it away from your doors. Ensure the ground around the building is graded to slope slightly outward, allowing water to flow away rather than toward the entrance. Regular maintenance of gutters and other drainage systems is also essential to aid the flow of water. Also consider installing trench drains and French drains in front of exterior doors to divert the water.

Even the best door systems require periodic care to remain water-tight. Consistent maintenance helps prevent damage and extends the life of your doors, so these are the steps you can take to protect your commercial doors.

• Inspect seals and gaskets and replace any that are rotted or cracked.

• Clean door and frame surfaces regularly because dirt, salt, and debris attract and hold moisture, which can degrade finishes and seals. Use a mild detergent and soft brushes.

• Lubricate hardware to ensure smooth operation and prevent loose or slack mechanisms from allowing water to seep in.

Just be aware that maintenance isn’t just a one-time task. It’s an ongoing effort to ensure your building is protected from water damage.

Water damage is silent but destructive, and commercial doors are often on the front line. If you’re ready to protect your building with doors that resist moisture and stand the test of time, such as steel and metal doors, contact CDF Distributors.