Installing automatic sliding or swing doors is a great way to improve your building’s accessibility. Keep reading to learn more about these door types and which hardware options are available for them.
Automatic sliding doors
Automatic sliding doors are a great option for buildings where customers, clients and employees are regularly coming and going through your building. These doors allow for quick and easy passage, help guide traffic and regulate indoor climate as well as provide access for individuals with reduced mobility. Automatic sliding doors have various storefront, commercial and institutional applications and are often used for entrances to shops, offices and public buildings.
It’s important to note that automatic sliding doors generally aren’t high-security. Buildings with automatic sliding doors require additional barriers such as grilles or shutters.
Automatic swinging doors
Like sliding doors, automatic swing doors allow for convenient, hands-free passage and offer accessibility to people with reduced mobility or those in a rush. They’re generally used for indoor applications and are common in institutions like hospitals and schools. These types of buildings require secure, durable doors and ease of access when in constant use. This is why they typically have built in locking mechanisms and safety glass instead of regular glass. As opposed to automatic sliding doors, automatic swinging doors usually won’t have locking mechanisms installed.
When automatic swing doors are made with steel and safety glass, they’re extremely robust and offer high security. Moreover, they have the advantage of taking up minimal space and can be installed in places that cannot accommodate a sliding door, such as a hallway.
Hardware options
If you’re getting an automatic slide or swing door, you’ll need to think about what hardware you want. Here are five options to consider.
1. Sensors
Automatic sliding doors typically open and close by sensors. There are three types available.
- Motion sensors open the door when people enter into the sensing range.
- Presence sensors hold a door open or prevent a door from opening when triggered.
- Combination sensors combine the opening and closing functionalities of motion sensors and the safety features of presence sensors.
2. Push plates
Push plates and disability push buttons open doors when pressed. They can be installed on automatic doors in place of sensors.
3. Guide rails
Guide rails can be installed inside and outside automatic sliding doors. They provide pedestrians with support and stability and can prevent accidents and control traffic flow.
4. Finger guards
Finger guards are used on automatic swing doors to prevent fingers from getting trapped at the hinge side. They’re an important safety feature, especially when a door is used by children.
Count on Lux for your automatic door needs
At Lux Overhead Door, we provide top-quality installation, maintenance and repair services for automatic sliding and swinging doors. Contact us today to receive a free quote on one our doors or to find out more about our products and services.
