What Are the Advantages of Commercial Metal Doors?

Commercial metal doors can withstand frequent heavy use, protect people and property, and be custom-made to meet your facility’s look and safety codes. They also need little upkeep, which can save you money on repair and service over time compared to other options.

Here’s a closer look at the benefits of metal doors for businesses and what you should keep in mind when installing them. 

Built to Last

A metal door can withstand the strenuous demands of commercial and industrial settings. Since they’re less likely to break down or malfunction due to frequent heavy usage, these doors minimize downtime in your business operations. 

The physical strength of metal doors also makes them weather-resistant. Since metal is nonporous, metal doors don’t absorb water like wood. They also remain sturdy even in areas that experience strong winds and storms. Manufacturers also use finishes like epoxy coatings, powder coating, specialized oil-based and acrylic latex paints for metal, and other methods, like galvanization, to boost the weather resistance of metal doors.

Although metal doors are generally sturdy, their durability level will depend on the type of metal used. Steel and aluminum are the most common metals used to build overhead doors. 

• Steel doors: Commercial and industrial steel doors are stronger and more durable than aluminum doors. They can last many years, but can rust if not properly coated or if the finish gets damaged.
• Aluminum doors: This material is lighter than steel and dents easily in comparison. Unlike steel doors, aluminum doors are corrosion-resistant, making them a good choice for businesses in coastal or humid areas.

Better Safety and Security Features

Metal doors are heavy and harder to tamper with or break through. Manufacturers today also build doors with advanced security systems like magnetic locks, card readers and other electronic access control systems, ensuring that only authorized users can access your business.

If intruders can’t get into your property, you can have peace of mind knowing your assets, employees and customers are safe. When employees feel safe, they can put more effort into their work and serve customers better. Customers who feel secure and receive better service are more likely to return to your business.

Most commercial metal doors are also fire-rated according to standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Doors that are rated for fire and safety have been designed to slow the spread of fire and smoke, giving people enough time to evacuate a building safely in case of an emergency. Firefighters will also have more time to contain the fire before it spreads and ruins the rest of your business.

Cost-Effective

Many modern metal doors are manufactured with insulated cores, which reduce the amount of heat that passes through them. With minimal heat transfer, indoor temperature becomes more stable, reducing the workload on your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Always ask for a thermal rating when comparing metal doors. A higher rating means better insulation and greater long-term savings.

Another way metal doors cut operational costs for your business is their low maintenance. Since they’re resistant to warping, cracking and rotting, these doors can last longer without repairs. Fewer repairs mean you’ll spend less money on fixing the door, and your business will experience minimal downtime associated with repairs.

Reduce Noise

Metal doors are heavy and solid, so they naturally block most unwanted sound from passing through. Because of this, they are often used in places where controlling noise is important. For example:

• A recording studio that needs quiet to capture clear sound.
• Office buildings that need calm spaces for concentration.
• Factories use them to block loud machinery noise and more.

Metal doors help create a better environment for work or study by reducing how much noise leaks in or out. Employees can focus more easily, feel less distracted and be more comfortable in their workplace.

Sustainable

Metal, specifically steel, is one of the most recycled materials in the world, which means that a metal door can be recycled instead of going to a landfill when it eventually reaches the end of its long lifespan. Recycling helps reduce waste and preserve natural resources. Many manufacturers also use eco-friendly methods and materials when producing steel doors, which makes them an even more sustainable option.      

Versatile Design and Customization Options                         

Metal doors can be made to fit many different needs, both practical and decorative, which is why they work well in industrial or commercial settings. You can choose from a variety of colors, finishes, window inserts and panel layouts to achieve the look you want. Whether it’s a clean, modern style for an office building or a tougher, industrial look for a warehouse, overhead metal doors can be customized to fit most commercial spaces.

How to Install Heavy Metal Doors for Commercial Applications

The only way to experience all the advantages of a commercial metal door is to ensure it’s installed properly. A poorly installed frame or misaligned hardware can create security gaps, reduce energy efficiency and cause safety hazards. Here’s what a correct installation process includes:

• Preinstallation check: Measure the opening, confirm the wall type and determine which way you want the door to swing. Also check hardware, power access for controls and any fire or accessibility requirements.
• Frame setup: Level and secure the frame with anchors suited to the wall type.
• Door and hardware installation: Hang the door on its hinges and adjust it so the gaps are even. Install locks, panic bars, closers or other hardware following the manufacturer’s instructions. If the door has alarms or access control wiring, protect it and test everything before finishing.
• Sealing and weatherproofing: Add weatherstripping, a door sweep and a proper threshold to block air and water leaks. Seal around the frame to keep the opening tight.
• Final testing: Open and close the door multiple times to make sure it moves smoothly, latches properly and that the openers work at the right speed. Check alarms and access systems, and ensure that the door meets all fire and safety requirements.

Secure Your Business With Ben Druck Door

Aluminum and steel doors for commercial applications offer long-lasting strength, support for modern security systems, fire protection, weather resistance and low maintenance. With proper installation, they also lower costs and enhance overall safety.

Ben Druck Door supplies, installs and services commercial door systems throughout southcentral Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. Our team ensures doors are the correct size, specifies the right hardware, and completes installations that pass inspection and perform reliably. We can also perform fire door testing and inspection to ensure the safety of your business.

Ready to start your project? Contact Ben Druck Door for a professional consultation and installation today.