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Whether you realize it or not, having commercial doors in your facility is crucial to the success of your business.
These doors are responsible for keeping your property secure, orderly, and energy-efficient. However, their appearance — especially those on the outside of your building — can also make a valuable first impression on your customers and visitors.
You may not give much thought to the aesthetics of your commercial doors, but they deserve attention. They see a lot more traffic than the doors in your home, increasing the wear and tear they accumulate daily. If you don’t stay on top of regular maintenance, you may find that you need to replace your doors sooner than you'd like.
Fortunately, you can extend the life of your exterior commercial doors by implementing a few simple measures.
Although many people believe commercial doors last a lifetime, the truth is that most only last approximately 15-30 years.
The lifespan of your commercial doors depends on several factors. Routine wear and tear is bound to happen, but if you don't make an effort to minimize the damage, your doors won’t hold up as long as they should.
The entryways to your business must be functional and attractive for your customers. As mentioned, doors play a crucial role in the presentation of your facility, giving visitors the confidence they need to trust that your company can meet their needs.
Making the following maintenance tasks a priority can save you money by preventing you from having to replace your doors sooner than necessary.
Everyone props a door open at some point, but you should think twice before doing so.
Holding doors open can place unnecessary strain on the bolts and hinges, potentially damaging them beyond repair over time. If your doors are made from a lightweight material, the constant propping could even cause them to bend or warp.
Everyday wear is unavoidable. Commercial doors are often struck, kicked, or shoved open and closed forcefully. Encourage your employees to handle your doors carefully, as a gentle touch can keep them looking and functioning the way they should for longer.
This goes for hardware like handles and locks as well as the doors themselves. Many people attempt to force locks and handles that give them trouble. Doing so can result in broken or damaged parts that require replacement.
Door closers are a crucial piece of hardware for your commercial doors. These attachments prevent them from gaping open or slamming shut.
If you elect to install door closers on your commercial doors, make sure to have them inspected regularly. A technician can check for fluid leaks or make necessary adjustments to ensure they last as long as your doors.
Excessive moisture can cause your doors to warp, split, or rust. These issues, in turn, can cause your doors’ hardware to malfunction. Keeping your doors clean and dry will prevent such issues and help them go the distance.
Even the highest quality doors and hardware will develop problems as they age. This is especially true when you aren't proactive about scheduling routine maintenance and repairs. You must be prepared to address structural concerns as they pop up, whether it’s a jammed lock, a busted hinge, or a hole.
Get in the habit of examining your doors periodically and note the first signs of a problem. A little vigilance can spare you significant repairs and associated expenses. Addressing issues promptly will also help you improve your facility’s safety and security.
Even if you follow all the tips outlined here, your commercial doors will eventually need replacing. Regular visual inspections will tell when it’s time.
Scan for obvious signs of damage, such as holes, splintering, rust, or flaking paint. In some cases, a fresh paint job may be enough to restore your door’s appearance, but dealing with structural issues is often more complicated.
If your door is hard to open or makes unusual noises, it's probably time to think about getting it replaced. A broken door is not only a hazard but an uninviting sight, potentially deterring customers from entering your business.
Contact CDF Distributors to learn more about our products if you're ready to replace your existing commercial door.
November 24, 2022
Wayne Foreman
