COMMERCIAL SAFETY & SECURITY
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT DOOR CLOSER
Louise Frost , a senior marketer at Door Controls Direct , discusses how to select the right door closer for your project or facility , breaking down the types of closers and their different functions .
» A SAFE PROPERTY IS A SECURE property . In order for access control systems and mechanical locks to be effective , doors need to close correctly into the frame after each opening . Here is where a reliable , controlled door closing device comes into play .
But unless you are replacing like-forlike , or have an architect ’ s specification , how do you know the best door closer for your facility ?
Choosing the right door closer depends on many factors . It can become overwhelming to make sure you get the right closer for the right job . And , fitting the wrong type of door and door hardware could end up being a costly mistake .
Selecting The Ideal Door Closer
Choosing the perfect closing mechanism begins with understanding the different types of door closers . You ’ ll want to consider the following :
• Aesthetics – achieving an aesthetically pleasing look in addition to the required functionality .
• Building specifications – there are regulations in place to ensure that the correct hardware is chosen for fire rated doors .
• Door location – requirements will differ for interior and exterior doors .
• Door details – the size and weight of the door will affect the choice of closer .
• Mounting location – are you fitting a closer at the top of the door , onto the frame , or into the floor ?
• Traffic frequency – establish whether the door has a high or low amount of use .
Door Closer Types
Overhead Door Closers
Overhead door closers are the most common . They can be fitted to both internal and external doors . The main variations are scissor arm and slide arm door closers .
There are three common mounting options for scissor arm overhead door closers :
Regular / Standard Arm Closers These are located on the pull side of the door . This option is the most power-efficient option available although less aesthetically pleasing . It is referred to as Figure . 1 fitting .
Transom-Mounted Door Closers The main difference from standard arm closers is that the body of the closer is mounted on the door frame on the push side . The most common application is doors with narrow top rails , usually aluminium or glass doors . This is Figure . 61 fitting .
Parallel Arm Closers
These have two arms that sit parallel on top of the door when it is closed . The closer body sits at the top of the push-side of the door . This is Figure . 66 installation . Fitting a closer in this configuration means you lose some of the efficiency but are more visually appealing .
Slide Arm Door Closers
Slide arm or slide channel closers provide similar functionality to scissor arm door closers , but they ’ re known for being more efficient in having a cam action mechanism . They can be installed pull and push side , door , or transom mounted .
They ’ re the perfect choice for care homes as they have reduced opening forces , making them more accessible whilst providing secure closing .
Concealed Door Closers Types
Jamb Mounted and Chain Door Closers
These types of door closers are recessed into the door and frame so they are completely hidden when the door is closed .
• Typically used for lightweight interior doors .
• Invisible when the door is closed so aesthetically appealing .
• Models for use on fire doors .
Given that there are a few options to choose from , check your door thickness , weight , and fire rating to see which model best suits your door and its location .
Floor Springs
A very durable closing solution for heavy , high use doors . Only the cover plate is visible when the door is open .
• Heavy duty hidden closing .
• Optional hold open and swing free function .
• Double and single action options
32
DECEMBER 2023
locksmithjournal . co . uk