Keeping commercial doors in good working order means safety, security, and smooth daily operations. A door that sticks, creaks, or fails to close properly can quickly become a liability, affecting both the energy efficiency and security of your property. Routine maintenance not only helps keep these doors running smoothly but also saves you from costly repairs or unexpected breakdowns. Here’s how a few essential upkeep habits can make all the difference—and when it might be time to bring in the pros at Union Door for extra support.
Before diving into the various important maintenance tasks, it’s wise to be aware of the different types of commercial doors that could potentially require maintenance. A good step is to evaluate your property to see what types of doors you're working with. Look out for:
Retail doors are certainly going to have different maintenance requirements than commercial or industrial doors. The latter two will likely require help from a professional to effectively undertake maintenance, but the following tips can generally be applied to all situations.
Regular inspections are the foundation of good door maintenance. We recommend checking your doors routinely so you can catch minor issues before they turn into big problems. For example, always be on the lookout for visible damage, like dents or scratches. While at first these may not seem like an issue, they can get worse and cause other problems over time. Also, pay attention to the alignment of the door—does the door sit unevenly in the frame? Is it level to the floor, wall, and ceiling? Any unusual sounds, like creaking or scraping, are pretty much always a sign that something isn’t working as it should. Even a slight change in how the door opens and closes can be a sign of underlying issues that need attention.
A quick check every month or so can keep you ahead of potential problems, and if you catch things early, you’ll save on repair costs and avoid disruptions that could impact your business. Regular inspections are a small effort with big payoffs, helping you maintain a secure, efficient entryway that you can rely on.
Commercial doors endure a lot of daily use, so it’s no surprise that their hinges and moving parts need regular lubrication. Applying lubricant to hinges, tracks, and rollers keeps everything moving smoothly and reduces wear. It’s a simple step, but it goes a long way in preventing annoying squeaks and damage. For best results, add lubrication to your routine every few months—or more often if your doors are in constant use.
Weatherstripping is a small detail that makes a big difference. First and foremost, it keeps drafts out, which improves comfort and lowers utility costs, and it also prevents unwanted dust, dirt, and moisture from sneaking inside. However, weatherstripping can tear, lose its seal, or just become less effective with the passing of time, so it’s a good idea to check the weatherstripping of doors around your property regularly to spot any gaps or cracks and replace worn sections as needed. By doing this, you can help maintain your building’s energy efficiency, save on heating and cooling costs, and keep your space comfortable and clean.
Automatic door sensors are not only key to the convenience and ADA compliance of commercial doors, but they are also a cornerstone of safety. If they’re not working properly or malfunctioning outright, they can create serious and expensive issues.
Testing your sensors regularly is simple: walk toward the door and check if it responds right away. If the door doesn’t open right away as you approach it, or if it doesn’t respond at all, it might be time to recalibrate or even replace the sensors. If you have access to security cameras, be sure to keep an eye on whether doors are opening unexpectedly as well. Testing and constant diligence is a great way to ensure the efficiency, effectiveness, and safety of your property.
While this may seem like an obvious tip, it’s important to be aware that not all automatic door sensors function the same way. The main types are infrared sensors, microwave pulses, and laser sensors. Not only do they work differently, but they also will require different types and costs of maintenance—some can be easily repaired while others are likely going to need a full replacement. Reach out to a commercial door expert like Union Door to learn more about the door sensors your property uses and how to best maintain their longevity.
Over time, the nuts, bolts, and screws holding your commercial door together can loosen from constant use. A quick and easy remedy is to check all of your doors now and then to tighten any loose hardware that would otherwise cause the door to sag or go off track. Depending on the traffic and frequency of use, you may only need to do this once or twice a year, but it will undoubtedly help keep your door stable and secure, reducing the strain on hinges and other components.
Keeping doors and tracks clean is an easy but essential part of maintenance. Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate over time, especially in the tracks, making it harder for the door to slide smoothly. Wipe down the door surfaces to keep them looking professional, and give the tracks a good cleaning to prevent jams or resistance. A clean door and track system not only look better but also reduce the chance of unexpected wear. With a quick sweep and wipe every so often, you’ll help your doors operate smoothly and avoid issues down the road.
The main function of door seals and frames is to help with insulation and security, not just complete an aesthetic design. With routine, everyday use, even highly resilient commercial door frames can eventually crack and their seals wear down. This structural failure will let in drafts or compromise the door’s sturdiness. To combat this, give the seals and frames a regular check for any signs of damage or gaps. Replacing worn seals or repairing frames can keep your building more energy-efficient and prevent potential security risks. While this often requires the help of a professional, it will always be worth it in the long run.
Regular maintenance, inspections, observations, and cleaning can usually cover the basics of commercial door care and be handled on a DIY-basis, but some issues, like sensor replacement, frame repair, safety testing, and hardware installation, need a professional to handle. Experienced technicians can spot hidden problems well before they would become obvious to the average individual which in turn will undoubtedly help you avoid major repairs down the road. A professional check-up also brings peace of mind, knowing your doors are safe, secure, and compliant with any industry regulations.
As a reliable supplier and servicer of commercial door systems, Union Door has all your maintenance needs covered. Our commercial door maintenance and inspection program includes regular check-ups, repairs, and adjustments designed to keep your doors in the best possible condition. We’re vigilant for issues such as wear and tear, structural damage, and any functional problems. If any issues are found, our expert team can perform the necessary repairs or replacements to prevent further damage and ensure uninterrupted operation.
Don’t wait for small issues to turn into costly problems—contact Union Door today to schedule a service and keep your doors running smoothly year-round.