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What to Expect During a Commercial Door Installation Project for Your Small Business

You’ve decided that it’s time to purchase new doors for your business and have them installed. As a small business owner, you won’t be hiring a project manager or giving this task to your maintenance manager. 

Thanks to a small budget, and even smaller staff, this is your project to handle. Don’t be overwhelmed. As long as you know what to expect, you’ll be prepared, and the process will run smoothly. 

Your Project Will Create Inconvenience

Even in ideal circumstances, this project will involve some inconveniences, however minor. For example, you may have to reroute customer traffic to a different entryway, block access to interior hallways, and designate someone to direct people if your project impacts a high traffic area. You must take steps to keep customers happy while things are under construction. If your project affects adjacent business owners, you’ll need to coordinate with them to learn how to mitigate their inconvenience.

Commercial Door Installation Will Be More Involved Than You Think

At first, this may seem like a simple project. After all, it’s just a door installation. How complex can it be? Chances are, it’s more involved than you realize. Many business owners assume they can simply order a door and find a contractor to install it. In reality, you’ll need to consider all the following:

  • Securing the building if exterior doors will be missing or non-functioning
  • Providing adequate parking for the installation crew
  • Coordinating with the delivery company
  • Minimizing impact to adjacent businesses
  • Disconnecting and reconnecting electronic locks and security sensors
  • Duplicating and distributing new keys

Remember that these are the processes that you will have to take care of on top of hiring an installation contractor and purchasing a door.

You Can Save Time and Money with the Right Installer

There is one thing you can do to help ensure your project goes smoothly. Take the time to research, and hire a qualified contractor. You’ll feel confident knowing that someone who is licensed, insured, and experienced will be installing your door.

In addition to that, you will benefit from their expertise. Your contractor will think of things you hadn’t considered and will be able to handle any unexpected issues that come up.

Taking Care of the Paperwork Is Key

You’ll need to get your permits in place before any work begins. If you’re lucky, that will be as simple as filling out a form and paying the fees. Unfortunately, that’s often not the case. Many municipalities require you to submit your plans, proof of insurance, and other documents before receiving permits. You may even need to wait for the next city or county council meeting to present your case and wait for the approval.

Don’t wait until the last minute. If you do, there could be significant delays. The upside is that a qualified door installation contractor should be familiar with the permit process. They may be able to help you secure the paperwork you need. Check your local building and zoning website as well. There may be forms that you can fill out electronically and other self-help information.

Choosing the Right Door Is Complex But Rewarding

Selecting a door for your business is much more involved than choosing one for your home. Here are just a few questions you’ll have to answer:

  • Do you need a double or single door?
  • What material should the doors be made of?
  • Will the doors need to be fire-rated?
  • Are you going to use your existing hardware or buy new hardware?
  • How will the doors be secured?
  • Will you need to have a security system wired in?
  • What about kick plates, glass, or other accessories?

Fortunately, you can build the ideal door for your business. Once you add all the features you need, you’ll have the itemized and detailed price of your door, including the delivery cost. Don’t worry about any hidden fees with CDF Distributors.

Final Thoughts: Help Is Available

Even if you cannot hire a project manager, you can count on CDF Distributors to help you execute your project successfully. Contact us for help with selecting your door, uploading your plans, and arranging delivery.

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