You thought we only handled big doors, huh? Well, we know pedestrian and storefront doors too. The industry professionals at United Door and Dock stay educated on all doors, big or small! We’ve got you covered whether they’re your storefront doors or the pedestrian doors inside or out of your building, hollow metal doors and fire doors to cooler and freezer doors.

Ready? Let’s talk about aesthetics while ensuring maximum functionality and safety as well!

Types of Storefront and Pedestrian Doors

Hollow Metal Doors

While they aren’t typically used as storefront doors, hollow metal doors are a the most popular choice for indoor use at industrial and commercial buildings. They stay popular because of their robust design and durability. Constructed with a sturdy steel frame, these doors feature steel panels affixed to both sides, adding an extra layer of toughness. But what’s inside, you ask? Despite their name, they aren’t entirely hollow; these doors often contain a core filled with insulating materials, contributing to their soundproofing and fire-resistant capabilities. They’re also often associated with increased security, which is paramount in business environments. The result is a door that’s not only a stalwart against potential security breaches but also capable of gracefully standing the test of time, handling wear and tear. So, if you’re after longevity, durability, and security, you can’t go wrong with a hollow metal door. Although they may seem boring, you can change them up by adding a small window or louver.

ADA Automatic Sliding and Swing Doors

Automatic storefront doors are not just a fantastic, efficient way to usher customers into your business; they also stand as a beacon of accessibility, complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). They’re common in retail, healthcare, and hospitality venues, where quick and effortless access is essential. Here’s where the magic lies: these doors not only reduce energy consumption, potentially bringing down those annual heating and cooling costs, but they also offer unparalleled convenience for all your customers, especially those with mobility impairments. But it doesn’t stop there – the safety of your employees and customers also improves. In new facilities, at least 60% of public entrances need to be wheelchair-accessible, and this extends to each accessible entrance, every leased space in multi-business buildings (think malls), entrances linking buildings with parking structures, and along required emergency escape routes. The cherry on top? There’s plenty of choices when it comes to ADA-compliant automatic door options, including swinging, folding, sliding, and rotating doors.

Fiber Glass Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Doors

Unlike wood, which can demand extensive maintenance, or hollow steel and aluminum doors that rust, FRP storefront doors practically laugh in the face of maintenance. They may have a higher initial price tag than metal doors, but their longer lifespan and
low-maintenance nature make them a cost-effective choice. They can even withstand chemicals that would tarnish stainless steel and aluminum, making them an excellent choice for specialty doors in settings like hospitals and laboratories. FRP doors are lighter than aluminum or steel, yet stronger and more durable. They promise all the security you need without weighing you down.
Aluminum Glass Doors

Aluminum glass doors and frames are popular in the commercial world, even more so than wood, fiberglass, or steel. This is mostly because they are resistant to warping. Unlike steel doors that can expand and contract in the heat, aluminum doors remain cool. Plus, the looks, nothing is more pleasing to a customer’s eye than a shiny, aluminum, and glass door made to perfection. That’s not just good looks; that’s longevity right there. And if you’re thinking about installation, don’t worry, aluminum doors are a breeze to work with. We can have them installed or serviced and ready for use in no time!

Revolving Doors

Typically made of aluminum and glass, revolving doors are standard in many commercial buildings and offer a blend of practicality and elegance. Constructed with three or four panels, these doors are positioned around a central axis and rotate in a circular motion. Their thoughtful design creates an airlock, significantly reducing drafts and heat loss, making them an energy-efficient choice for businesses. Moreover, they offer a smooth traffic flow, allowing multiple people to enter and exit at the same time, which is particularly helpful in high-traffic areas. However, they do require careful use, as improper entry or exit can cause jams. Despite this minor inconvenience, revolving doors’ beauty and efficiency make them a great choice for modern buildings.
Walk-in Cooler and Freezer Doors

Usually made from sturdy stainless steel, but sometimes with aluminum, freezer and cooler doors have an insulating layer of polystyrene or polyurethane (high-density foam) tucked in between. Think of them as gatekeepers – they hold back the warm outside air while keeping the chilly atmosphere contained. If your freezer door has a leak or won’t stay closed, the loss of cold air means your cooler or freezer has to work extra hard. This result isn’t good for energy efficiency or the overall health of your cooler/freezer. Aside from ensuring a solid seal to thwart moisture and ice buildup, quality doors are durable, withstand wear and tear, and are easier to maintain. Keeping your door maintained is key to meeting health and safety regulations.

Common Challenges

While pedestrian and storefront doors are vital to your business, they are also much more prone to issues. These doors are in high-traffic areas, exposed to the elements, and sometimes have the potential to be vandalized. At United Door and Dock, we do everything we can to prevent these inconveniences from happening and fix them if they do! Here are some of the most common problems your doors can run into:

1

Door Alignment Problems: This is one of the most common issues and can cause a door to stick, not latch correctly, or let air in or out, affecting energy efficiency. Misalignment of your storefront doors can happen due to wear and tear or even changes in temperature and humidity.
2
Wear and Tear: Given their high usage, these doors experience a lot of wear and tear. Hardware like hinges, handles, and locks can loosen over time, impairing functionality and security.
3
Glass Damage: Storefront doors often have large glass panels susceptible to scratches, cracks, or shattering due to impact. Not only does this look unattractive, but it can also pose a security risk.
4
Automatic Door Issues: If your storefront has automatic doors, problems can arise with the sensors not working correctly, leading to doors not opening or closing properly. This can be a significant inconvenience to customers, especially those with disabilities.
5
Inadequate Weatherstripping: Over time, the weatherstripping on your doors can degrade, leading to drafts, leaks, and higher energy costs.
6
Aesthetic Issues: Since these doors contribute to the first impression of a business, any aesthetic issues, such as peeling paint, tarnished hardware, or outdated design, can detract from the overall appearance and brand image.
7
Security Concerns: Finally, doors that don’t close or lock properly can pose a significant security risk, potentially allowing unauthorized access to the premises.

United Door and Dock Technician Working on ADA Storefront Doors

Every Door Tells a Story

Your storefront doors are more than just a physical barrier or an entrance – they reflect your business. A stylish and well-maintained door can tell a story about who you are as a company and what you stand for.

And as we’ve discovered, a wide array of doors are available, each suited to different needs and aesthetics. From charming storefront doors that welcome your customers to sturdy man doors that withstand daily use and abuse, each one has its own unique purpose and persona. Choosing and maintaining the right doors may seem like a minor detail, but it can significantly impact your business. It affects not only the security and energy efficiency of your facilities but also the overall impression your business makes.

OUR TEAM IS READY