Commercial doors get a lot of use. The more use they get, the more wear and tear they receive, and the greater the odds of different parts breaking. A broken door can be a hassle and inconvenience customers. It may even be dangerous. Simple maintenance can keep your commercial doors in top operating condition.
Key Takeaways:
- Regular Cleaning: Keep doors free from dirt and debris to maintain appearance and functionality.
- Lubrication: Apply appropriate lubricants to hinges and moving parts to ensure smooth operation.
- Alignment Checks: Ensure doors are properly aligned to prevent undue stress on components.
- Scheduled Maintenance Plan: Implement routine inspections and professional servicing for proactive upkeep.
- Weather-Resistant Upgrades: Use corrosion-resistant materials and durable seals to combat Seattle's climate.
- Enhanced Security Measures: Install access control systems and update security protocols regularly.
- Environmental Considerations: Manage humidity and temperature to prevent material degradation.
- Staff Training: Educate employees on proper door usage and reporting procedures.
- Emergency Preparedness: Regularly test emergency exits and maintain clear signage for safety compliance.
Do Not Prop the Doors Open
If the doors are propped open, this can cause them to come unaligned. Once whatever is holding the door open is removed, the door may come off the track or not glide as smoothly as it should. If left open, the wind may catch the door, which can bend components and possibly even cause the glass to break. If it is necessary to leave a door open, there is hardware that can be installed, depending on the type of door, to do so. If your door does not have the hardware necessary to safely leave it open, consult a professional.
Adjust the Closers
If the door closes too quickly or too slowly, this indicates that the closers are not properly adjusted. This is normal; as the door is in use, parts may loosen, and adjustments will need to be made to keep the doors in proper working order.
Clean and Paint the Doors
If doors are dirty and the paint is chipping, they can look sloppy and unprofessional. It is important that doors intended for customers create an inviting atmosphere, but it is still necessary to keep all doors neat and tidy. Keeping the doors cleaned and painted can also help extend their life and improve your business's curb appeal. Make sure to use paint specifically intended for metal that resists rust.
Replace Kick Plates and Hardware
If the kick plate, handles, or other parts of the door are looking worse for wear, have those parts replaced. Updated hardware will also keep the doors working properly and potentially extend their life. These updates also make your business look professional.
Do Not Get Commercial Doors Wet
Exterior doors will be exposed to the elements, and that is fine. Doors built for exterior applications are designed to handle the wind, rain, snow, and more. It is important to clean the doors, but do not hose them down or dump a bucket of water on them. The doors are built to handle exposure to weather, but they are not intended to be exposed to high-pressure water or to be submerged.
Address Environmental Factors
Seattle's environment presents specific challenges that can affect door performance. To mitigate these:
- Control Humidity Levels: Maintain indoor humidity to prevent door warping and material degradation. Utilize dehumidifiers in areas prone to excessive moisture.
- Protect Against Temperature Fluctuations: Install insulated doors to minimize the impact of temperature variations, which can cause materials to expand or contract, affecting door operation.
Upgrade to Weather-Resistant Materials
Seattle's damp climate can accelerate the deterioration of door materials. Consider upgrading to:
- Corrosion-Resistant Hardware: Utilize stainless steel or galvanized components to withstand moisture and reduce rust formation.
- Durable Seals and Weatherstripping: Invest in high-quality, moisture-resistant seals to prevent water ingress and enhance energy efficiency.
Handle Doors with Care
Commercial doors should always be used reasonably. Do not slam, kick, or punch the doors. If the door is moving slowly, do not yank it open or push it closed. Being aggressive with the doors can cause them to break down sooner than they should. Broken doors may not operate safely. Depending on the type of damage, a broken door may not be able to be locked which poses a security issue.
If Something Is Not Working Right Take a Closer Look
Commercial doors will not fix themselves if the problem is ignored. Problems only get worse when an issue is not resolved. If the door sticks or the key was difficult to insert or remove, call a professional to look into the problem. The best time to fix a problem is as soon as it is identified.
Replace Batteries
Some styles of commercial doors have battery-powered exit alarms or card access systems. Regularly checking the batteries ensures these features are powered and in proper working order.
Pay Special Attention to Fire Doors
If a door is marked as a fire exit, do not make any modifications without first checking with a locksmith or your local fire department. Only certain styles of locks can be used on fire doors. If you were to replace the lock with a model that is not up to code, this could cause a safety issue and be a violation.
Take Care of Commercial Doors to Prevent Problems
Smart maintenance can ensure your commercial doors will operate safely and effectively. It is important to regularly inspect doors for damage, perform simple maintenance, and fix problems right away. By taking care of commercial doors, you can extend their lifespan and ensure the safety of your customers, staff, and vendors.
Implement a Scheduled Maintenance Plan
Establishing a regular maintenance schedule is crucial for the optimal performance of commercial doors. This plan should include:
- Routine Inspections: Conduct monthly checks to identify signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Early detection can prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs.
- Professional Servicing: Engage qualified technicians for bi-annual comprehensive assessments. Their expertise ensures that all components, including those not visible during routine inspections, are in proper working order.
Enhance Security Measures
Maintaining the security of commercial premises is paramount. Strengthen door security by:
- Installing Access Control Systems: Implement keyless entry systems, such as card readers or biometric scanners, to monitor and control access effectively.
- Regularly Updating Security Protocols: Ensure that access permissions are current and promptly revoke access for former employees to maintain security integrity.
Train Staff on Proper Usage
Educate employees on the correct operation of commercial doors to prevent accidental damage:
- Proper Opening and Closing Techniques: Instruct staff to use handles and push bars appropriately, avoiding excessive force that can strain door components.
- Reporting Protocols: Encourage prompt reporting of any door issues or irregularities to facilitate immediate attention and repairs.
Plan for Emergency Situations
Ensure that doors function correctly during emergencies:
- Regular Testing of Emergency Exits: Conduct drills to confirm that all exit doors operate smoothly and comply with safety regulations.
- Maintain Clear Signage: Ensure that all emergency exits are clearly marked and free from obstructions to facilitate quick evacuation if necessary.
Contact Us Today For Commercial Door Maintenance
Keeping your commercial doors in excellent condition is essential for maintaining safety, security, and functionality in your business. If you're in the Seattle area and need expert assistance with door maintenance, repairs, or upgrades, Sevan Locks and Doors is here to help! Thank you for reading our blog! Contact us today.
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