Commercial doors are responsible for keeping things secure, making a good first impression, and, well, letting people in (or out, depending on the day). So, when that trusty door starts acting up, you’ve got a decision to make: Do you fix it, or do you give it the boot and start fresh? It’s not always clear-cut, but we’re here to help you figure out whether it’s time for a repair or if you’re better off replacing the whole thing. Spoiler alert: sometimes the right answer isn’t as obvious as you think, but here are some signs to look for so you can make the call with confidence.
Signs Your Commercial Door Needs to be Repaired
If you see the following signs, it’s likely that door repair will be sufficient:
Minor Cosmetic Damage
No door is immune to a little wear and tear. Over time, you might notice a few scratches or paint chips. However, unless it’s causing the door to malfunction or lose structural integrity, this stuff is just surface-level. A few nicks, scratches, and even small dents aren’t a reason to rush for a replacement. In most cases, a quick touch-up or a simple repair can restore your door to its former glory without breaking the bank. Try giving your door a new coat of industrial-grade paint and lubricate the hinges—all said, this should make your door look and work like new without having to pay for significant repairs or replacements.
Operational Issues
Does your door drag or stick halfway, or need a little extra elbow grease to fully close? If that’s the case, these operational issues are usually fixable with a little maintenance. Misalignment or an improperly balanced door can often be corrected with a tune-up, a couple of adjustments, and a few choice tools.
Locks, handles, and hinges — these little guys can wear out over time, but that doesn’t mean your whole door is on its way out. Be sure to check that the hinges, handle, locking mechanism, and frame are still aligned and mounted properly and that all screws are properly tightened. Replacing a handle or fixing a hinge is far less costly than replacing the entire door, and it can often be done in just a matter of hours.
However, more complex commercial door systems might not be as straightforward, and the parts required for repair might not always be easily accessible from your local hardware store. If you own a commercial door system with more complex parts or if you’re still having issues after checking the main components we mentioned above, we recommend calling an expert for assistance.
Cost-Effective Repairs
If your door’s issues are limited to minor cosmetic damage, operational glitches, or hardware malfunctions, it’s likely that a repair will cost you far less than replacing the entire thing. When you can address the issue quickly without major disruptions to your business, repairing might be the most cost-effective option. A little investment now can extend the life of your door and keep things running smoothly without a hefty price tag.
When You Should Replace A Commercial Door
Here are common situations where a commercial door replacement is the best decision:
Severe Structural Damage
Sometimes, the damage goes beyond surface-level issues. If your door has cracks, warping, or rust eating away at the frame, it’s time to start thinking about replacement. Not only does this kind of damage compromise the door’s functionality, but it also affects the security of your building. A door that’s falling apart can’t do its job of keeping the bad guys out (or even keeping the weather at bay).
Frequent Repairs
If you find yourself scheduling repairs for the same door every few months, it might be time to cut your losses. A door that requires constant fixing likely has a bigger structural problem or is nearing the end of its life. The hassle of constant maintenance takes away from running your business smoothly.
Energy Inefficiency
Old doors tend to let more than just people in — they also let in cold air and drafts, which cause your energy bills to skyrocket. If you’ve noticed a spike in your energy bill recently, doors and windows are the first places to check. Drafty or poorly insulated doors are a sign that it might be time for a change. A new door will not only look better, but it can also improve energy efficiency, saving you money on heating and cooling costs. So, why pay for a door that’s working against you?
Outdated Style
Your door is often the first thing people see when they approach your business. An outdated door can make your business look a little drab, especially if you upgraded the rest of the storefront. A new, stylish door that complements your brand image can boost curb appeal and make a great first impression on clients, customers, and guests.
Safety and Security Concerns
If your door is no longer meeting modern safety standards or has weak spots that could be exploited by intruders, it's time to let it go. Older doors can become vulnerable over time, leaving your business at risk. Replacing it with a stronger, more secure door will help you sleep better at night, knowing your property is safe from unwanted access. In today’s world, security shouldn’t be negotiable — and your door is the first line of defense.
Union Door: The Bay Area’s Best Choice for Commercial Door Solutions
Deciding whether to repair or replace your commercial door is no small task, but understanding the signs can help make that decision clearer. If your door is showing signs of severe damage, frequent issues, or inefficiency, replacing it might be the best long-term solution. For expert advice and quality service, Union Door is here to help you make the right choice for your business. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.