If you own or run a business, you might be overwhelmed by the variety of different commercial door types and unsure of which might be ideal for your business. That’s where we come in. We’ve written this article to give you a run-down of the most common types of commercial/ industrial doors and their differences.
Overhead Doors
Overhead doors are probably the most common type of commercial doors. Overhead doors get their name from how they work. They are lifted via a track or rail until they are horizontal with the ceiling. This type of door is operated either manually or using a remote. Overhead doors can be made from multiple materials, including: galvanized steel, fiberglass, glass, wood, aluminum or metal. Overhead doors are sectioned into long slats which are held together by hinges. This is what allow them the flexibility to roll up and down. These type of doors can be used in multiple commercial/ industrial scenarios.
As the authorized local distributor for Overhead Door Corp products, we are the Overhead Door pros in South Florida. We install, repair and provide replacement parts for most Overhead Door types.
Fire Rated Doors
Fire Rated doors are very common in many commercial environments. They function much like regular commercial doors that open in and out but the biggest difference is the level of fire protection they provide. This type of door is made from a thick, durable stainless steel that is fire resistant, noise resistant, and offers amazing insulation. Fire rated doors are often a standard choice for most large facilities given that often times they are required by local permitting agencies, etc. They sometimes come with automatic features in the event that a fire is detected.
Roll Up Doors
Similar to an overhead door, roll up doors are sectioned into long slats. The difference is, the slats on this door are thinner to allow the door more flexibility to roll up with ease. These door types are used in much the same way as overhead doors, but in spaces where there is no accommodation for rails such as a wide open warehouse. With this door, the entire model is attached to the inner wall and led by guides until it is fully rolled up.
Scissor Gates
Scissor gates operate in a completely different way than roll up, fire rated and overhead doors. Using a unique design, scissor gate doors move from left to right (or vice versa) like a sliding door and lock like a normal door once closed. They are highly durable and are made from quality impenetrable steel to offer you the highest protection. These doors work best when used for an outside entryway.
At the end of the day, the type of door you choose will depend on the main function of the door. Will the door be used for loading equipment/ goods in and out of your building? Will it be used for storing vehicles? Or is it merely for handling people walking in and out? If you know exactly what you’ll be using your industrial door for, it will help you determine the type of door you need and what type of features should come with the door. Even if you have an idea, you should still contact the door pros at B&B Door Company to help you make the decision. We’ll also install your new doors and maintain them so that they last for years to come.