Frequently Asked Questions

A: The commercial door closer is a mechanical device that automatically closes a door after it has been opened. It ensures the door returns to a closed position in a controlled manner, helping maintain security, fire safety, energy efficiency, and noise reduction in commercial and public buildings. Most models allow you to adjust closing speed and latching force to match your door’s weight and usage frequency.

A: To choose the right door closer, consider three key factors: door size and weight, usage frequency, and installation type.

• For heavy or frequently used doors, select a Grade 1 closer, designed for high-traffic commercial environments.

• For standard interior doors, a Grade 2 model is usually sufficient.

• Also check the mounting options (regular arm, parallel arm, or top jamb) to ensure compatibility with your door and frame.
  Finally, choose an adjustable closer that allows fine-tuning of closing and latching speed for smooth, safe operation.

A: Yes. Both models are designed for indoor/outdoor use and are suitable for wet environments. Mounting on the wall near the hinges with the arm connected to the top of the door is a common “top jamb” installation method and works for a right-swing door.

A: The D4000 supports a maximum opening angle of 180 degrees, while the D500 supports up to 120 degrees. Both will work if you require about 110 degrees.

A: To choose the right hinge, consider your door type, usage frequency, and required function.

• For standard commercial doors, ball bearing hinges are ideal—they provide smooth, quiet operation and long-lasting durability.

• For self-closing doors, such as fire-rated or restroom doors, use spring hinges, which automatically close the door after opening.

• If security is a concern, choose a non-removable pin hinge like our JS-5BB1 model, which prevents pin tampering from the outside.
  Always ensure the hinge matches your door’s thickness, weight, and material for optimal performance.

A: We offer four types of commercial hinges, including two spring hinges and two ball bearing hinges. Please visit our Hinge Pproduct Page to learn more.

A: An automatic door bottom is a self-leveling sealing device installed along the bottom edge of a door. When the door closes, a concealed mechanical drop seal automatically lowers to fill the gap between the door and the threshold, blocking air, light, sound, dust, and smoke. When the door opens, the seal retracts to avoid dragging on the floor. It’s commonly used in commercial and sound-rated doors for improved energy efficiency and noise control.

A: The 4131RL Automatic Door Bottom should be mounted about 3/8" (approximately 10 mm) above the floor.

A: Yes, trimming from 36" down to 33-3/4" is possible. The minimum trim allowance is 2" and must only be cut from the non-plunger end. Do not trim closer than 1-1/2" before the set screw on the plunger side, as that is the mechanical limit. This model is designed to seal uneven door gaps, with a maximum sealing capacity of up to 3/4".

A: A door bottom sweep is designed to seal the gap between the bottom of the door and the floor or threshold. It helps prevent drafts, dust, insects, light, and moisture from entering a room while improving energy efficiency and comfort. Door sweeps are typically made of aluminum, vinyl, and can be easily attached to the door’s lower edge using screws or adhesive.

A: The main difference lies in their design and installation style.

• A door sweep attaches to the face of the door and seals the bottom gap using a flexible vinyl or brush insert.

• A door shoe has a U-shaped / L-shaped Aluminum channel that fits over the bottom edge of the door, providing a more durable and secure fit with dual sealing surfaces.

In short, a door shoe offers stronger protection against drafts, light, and water, while a sweep is simpler to install and ideal for lighter-duty applications.

A: A threshold is important because it creates a seal and transition between the bottom of the door and the floor. It helps block drafts, water, dust, insects, and sound, improving both comfort and energy efficiency. In commercial buildings, thresholds also help align and support weatherstripping for a complete seal and can provide ADA-compliant, slip-resistant surfaces for safer access.

A: An overhead drip guard (also called a rain drip cap) is installed above the exterior door frame to deflect rainwater away from the door and threshold area. It prevents water from seeping into the building, reducing the risk of leaks, corrosion, and damage to the door and flooring. Drip guards are especially useful for outward-opening doors exposed to weather, helping extend the lifespan of both the door and hardware.

A: Perimeter gasketing is a weatherseal system installed along the top and sides of a door frame to close the gaps between the door and frame. It helps prevent air, sound, smoke, light, and moisture from passing through. Commonly made of aluminum housing with a rubber or silicone insert, perimeter gasketing improves energy efficiency, sound control, and fire protection when used with compatible doors and thresholds.

A: An exit push bar, also known as a panic bar or crash bar, is a safety device installed on exit doors to allow quick and easy egress in emergencies. When the horizontal bar is pushed, it releases the latch mechanism, enabling the door to open instantly without the need for a key or handle. Exit push bars are commonly used in commercial buildings, schools, and public facilities to meet fire and safety codes, ensuring occupants can exit safely and efficiently.