Commercial pedestrian doors are essential to daily operations in offices, retail stores, hospitals, and schools. But when these doors malfunction, they can compromise security, accessibility, and efficiency, and even put your business out of compliance with safety regulations.
From stuck hinges to sensor failures, understanding the most common problems with commercial pedestrian doors and how to fix them can save time, money, and frustration. Whether you use manual, automatic, or fire-rated doors, this guide covers it all.
1. Door Not Closing Properly
Problem:
One of the most frequent issues is a door that fails to close all the way. This can pose a security risk or impact your building’s HVAC efficiency.
Causes:
- Misaligned door hinges or frame
- Worn-out or broken door closers
- Obstructions at the threshold
- Warped door due to weather exposure
Solutions:
- Adjust the door closer tension or replace it if leaking
- Realign hinges or tighten loose screws
- Remove debris or buildup from the threshold
- Replace or reinforce the door if the warping is irreversible
2. Automatic Door Fails to Open or Close
Problem:
Automatic doors that don’t respond to motion sensors or get stuck in mid-cycle can create safety and accessibility concerns.
Causes:
- Faulty motion sensors
- Power supply issues
- Mechanical failure of the door operator
- Dirty sensor lenses or blocked pathways
Solutions:
- Clean sensor lenses and check for obstructions
- Test the power connection and circuit breakers
- Replace malfunctioning sensors
- Contact a commercial door technician for a full diagnostic if the operator has failed
3. Locking Mechanism Malfunctions
Problem:
If a commercial door’s lock isn’t working, it can prevent secure access and put the premises at risk.
Causes:
- Broken deadbolts or latch systems
- Misaligned strike plates
- Worn-out keys or internal tumblers
Solutions:
- Replace damaged locking hardware
- Realign the strike plate
- Consider upgrading to electronic or smart lock systems for added durability and access control
4. Excessive Noise During Operation
Problem:
Squeaky, grinding, or banging noises from pedestrian doors are not only annoying but may signal serious wear.
Causes:
- Rusted or unlubricated hinges
- Misaligned door hardware
- Loose screws or parts inside the door closer
Solutions:
- Apply a commercial-grade lubricant to all hinges and pivots
- Tighten or replace any loose components
- Inspect the door frame and realign as needed
5. Fire-Rated Door Non-Compliance
Problem:
Fire-rated doors must meet strict building codes. If they’re damaged or improperly installed, you risk fines and compromised safety.
Causes:
- Missing or altered fire labels
- Damaged seals or closers
- Propped open with wedges
Solutions:
- Replace damaged components with fire-rated equivalents
- Install automatic closers that meet NFPA 80 standards
- Schedule annual fire door inspections with a certified contractor
6. Difficulty Opening the Door
Problem:
Heavy or hard-to-open doors can cause accessibility issues, especially in ADA-compliant spaces.
Causes:
- Faulty door closers set with high-tension springs
- Warped door frame
- Swelling due to humidity
Solutions:
- Adjust or replace the door closer for reduced tension
- Inspect for frame misalignment or material swelling
- Replace weather stripping and seals to reduce friction
7. Door Dragging on the Floor
Problem:
When a pedestrian door scrapes the floor, it can damage the flooring and make it difficult to operate.
Causes:
- Loose hinges or sagging doors
- Structural shifting of the building
- Incorrect door installation height
Solutions:
- Tighten hinge screws or replace worn-out hinges
- Use shims to realign the door
- Adjust the frame or threshold if settling has occurred
8. Weather-Related Wear and Tear
Problem:
Doors exposed to the elements often suffer from rust, swelling, and weather seal degradation.
Causes:
- Poor weather stripping
- Improper drainage
- Corroded metal components
Solutions:
- Install or replace weather-resistant seals and thresholds
- Ensure proper drainage around entry points
- Apply rust-inhibiting coatings or replace corroded hardware
Final Thoughts
Commercial pedestrian doors play a vital role in the safety, security, and efficiency of your business. Regular inspection and preventative maintenance are key to avoiding costly downtime and maintaining building compliance.
When in doubt, working with a professional commercial door contractor can ensure all repairs are up to code and your doors function flawlessly year-round.
