When it comes to commercial spaces, pedestrian doors are more than just entryways—they’re the first impression of your business, a key part of your security plan, and, as rote as it might seem, play a major role in your daily operations. Choosing the right door involves more than picking the most secure one or one that matches your building; it’s about balancing steady foot traffic and accessibility with aesthetics and, of course, safety.
We know you’ve got more on your mind as a business owner than doors—that’s why our experienced commercial door team at Union Door is here to make sure you’re considering every important factor if you need to replace your pedestrian door. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the right decision.
Feet in the Door: Understanding Your Pedestrian Traffic
Start by observing or just thinking about how people move in and out of your space. Is your entrance a constant stream of customers, or is it more for employees? Are they entering from a busy city street, through an alley, or the side of a building? A retail store, for example, needs something durable and inviting, while an office might prioritize privacy and security.
If your facility sees high volumes of daily visitors—think restaurants, cafes, or large retail stores—you’ll want doors that open and close with ease, resist wear, and meet ADA accessibility standards. Automatic sliding doors are a great choice in these settings, as they offer easy access and an open, welcoming feel. ADA-compliant doors are also a must for any business open to the public so that everyone can access your facility safely and comfortably.
Recommended doors for high-traffic environments
- Aluminum Storefront Doors – Sleek, modern, and perfect for showcasing retail interiors, they can also be outfitted with glass windows of varying strength.
- Sliding Doors – Ideal for smooth, touch-free entry in busy locations, but may not be as secure as heftier metal doors.
- ADA Doors – Built to meet accessibility standards, offering safety and ease for all visitors.
Business Model: One Door Doesn’t Fit All
Every industry has unique needs. A boutique law office will require something very different than a food processing facility. That’s why your business model plays a major role in selecting the right door.
If you’re in retail or hospitality, you’ll want an entrance that’s not only functional but visually appealing—something that complements your brand and encourages walk-in traffic. For professional services like finance or education, privacy and sound insulation might take precedence. Meanwhile, businesses that deal with chemicals, moisture, or heavy equipment—such as manufacturing plants or schools—should consider impact- and corrosion-resistant doors built for longevity.
Recommended doors for different business types:
- Commercial Wood Doors – Warm, professional, and great for office or hospitality settings.
- Hollow Metal Doors – Strong, fire-rated, and ideal for warehouses or back-of-house operations.
- FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Polyester) Doors – Durable, low-maintenance, and perfect for schools, labs, and industrial spaces.
Balancing Accessibility and Security
While accessibility and functionality are top considerations for commercial pedestrian doors, security shouldn’t be compromised on, either. This may be a larger priority if your location is in a high-risk area or you operate during off-hours. Your pedestrian door should be able to withstand forced-entry attempts, integrate with locking and other security systems, and of course comply with fire and safety codes.
Some businesses opt for reinforced steel or composite doors that are difficult to breach and can even be fitted with security glass or access control systems.
Best door types for enhanced security:
- Hollow Metal Doors – Typical exterior doors, these are heavy and built to resist tampering or forced entry.
- FRP Doors – Engineered for impact resistance, fire protection, and long-term performance, fiberglass doors are a popular option for pedestrian access.
- Aluminum Storefront Doors with Security Glass – Blends accessibility and aesthetics with solid protection.
Let Union Door Help You Make the Right Choice
Whether you need a heavy-duty FRP door for a busy school hallway, a sleek aluminum storefront entrance, or ADA-compliant solutions for your public-facing office, Union Door is here to guide you through the process. Our team of experts will evaluate your foot traffic, business model, and security requirements to recommend the best-fit pedestrian doors for your space.
Contact Union Door today and let us help you find the perfect entrance solution for your business. Your door should work as hard as you do—let’s make sure it does.