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16 Aug

Comprehensive Guide for Architects on Choosing Commercial Storefront Doors

Author AORBIS Inc Categories Blog

Architect's Handbook: Selecting the Perfect Commercial Storefront Doors

Did you know that the design of a storefront door can significantly impact a store’s sales by up to 35%?

For architects, crafting the perfect commercial space goes beyond aesthetics. Every detail, including the entrance, plays a vital role in functionality, customer experience, and ultimately, a business’s success.

This guide explores the key considerations architects must make when choosing commercial storefront doors.

Understanding the Requirements of Commercial Storefront Doors

Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Building Use and Functionality
    The type of business the door will serve plays a major role. For instance, high-traffic retail stores might benefit from automatic sliding doors, while a small office might opt for a classic swinging door. You need to consider three primary things: the flow of customers, the need for easy access for deliveries, and the overall functionality required for the space.
  • Local Building Codes and Regulations
    Always ensure your chosen door meets all relevant building codes set by your local authorities. These codes can address aspects such as fire safety, accessibility, and maximum door weight. Consulting with a local building inspector familiar with the area’s regulations is highly recommended.
  • Client Needs and Preferences
    Discuss the client’s vision for the overall aesthetic and functionality of the space. Do they prioritize a modern, sleek entrance with a glass storefront door? Or perhaps a more secure entry system is essential for their business. Understanding their needs and preferences will help you narrow down the options and ensure the chosen door aligns with their goals.
By taking these requirements into account, you can approach the selection process with a clear understanding of what’s essential for the specific commercial project.
  • Energy Efficiency Considerations
    In today’s environmentally conscious world, energy efficiency is a growing concern. Explore options like double-paned glass or insulated door panels that can minimize heat transfer and contribute to a more sustainable building design.
Understanding the Requirements of Commercial Storefront Doors

Types of Commercial Storefront Doors

Now, the world of commercial storefront doors offers a variety of options to suit different needs and aesthetics. Let's explore some popular types:

1. Swinging Doors

  • A classic and versatile choice, swinging doors are available in single or double configurations.
  • They can be manual or automatic, and work well for controlled entry and exit.
  • Pros: Simple and familiar to use, cost-effective, wide range of material and style options.
  • Cons: May not be ideal for high-traffic areas due to the need to physically open the door.
Swinging Doors

2. Sliding Doors 

  • Offer a sleek and modern look, perfect for creating a spacious and welcoming entrance.
  • Automatic sliding doors are ideal for high-traffic areas, allowing for easy and hands-free movement.
  • Pros: Enhance accessibility, create a more open feel, ideal for showcasing product displays.
  • Cons: Can be more expensive than swinging doors, and require regular maintenance for smooth operation.
Sliding Doors

3. Revolving Doors

  • A signature feature for high-end retail spaces or buildings with heavy foot traffic.
  • Revolving doors help maintain climate control by minimizing air exchange when people enter or exit.
  • Pros: Promote energy efficiency, and create a grand entrance, ideal for high-traffic areas.
  • Cons: May not be suitable for all users, especially those with mobility limitations, and require a larger entryway space.
Revolving Doors

4. Folding Doors

  • Offer a unique space-saving solution, ideal for areas where a fully open entrance is desired.
  • Folding doors can be made of various materials like glass, metal, or wood to complement the overall design.
  • Pros: Maximize available space when open, create a versatile indoor/outdoor feel.
  • Cons: May not provide the same level of security as other door types, and require more clearance for proper folding.
Folding Doors

5. High-Speed Doors

  • Designed for warehouses, loading docks, and other industrial settings to minimize heat loss or dust infiltration.
  • These doors open and close rapidly, allowing for efficient traffic flow while maintaining climate control.
  • Pros: Improve energy efficiency, ideal for high-traffic industrial environments.
  • Cons: Not suitable for retail or commercial storefronts due to their industrial aesthetic and focus on function over design.
High-Speed Doors

This is just a starting point! Remember, each type of door can have further variations depending on material, size, and customization options. The key is to understand the specific needs of the project and choosing a storefront security gate that best balances functionality, aesthetics, and budget. You can get in touch with a door distributor or door hardware supplier to get a clear understanding of your requirements.

Features of Commercial Storefront Doors

Beyond the basic types, commercial storefront doors come packed with features that enhance functionality, security, and aesthetics. Here's a breakdown of some key features to consider:

Functionality

1. Functionality

  • Automatic Door Openers: Perfect for high-traffic areas, automatic doors provide a hands-free experience and improve accessibility.
  • Self-Closing Mechanisms: Ensure doors close properly after use, maintaining climate control and security.
  • Panic Bars: Essential for emergency egress, allowing for easy exit in case of fire or other hazards.
  • Hardware Options: From pull handles to push bars, consider hardware that complements the overall design and ease of use.
Security

2. Security

  • Locking Systems: Multi-point locking systems with high-security cores offer superior protection against break-ins.
  • Impact-Resistant Glass: Protects the storefront from vandalism and accidental breakage.
  • Security Glazing: Techniques like laminated glass or polycarbonate glazing provide additional security.
  • Access Control Systems: Keyless entry, card readers, or integrated alarm systems can further enhance security measures.
Aesthetics and Design

3. Aesthetics and Design

  • Door Material: Aluminum offers a sleek and modern look, while wood provides a warm and inviting feel. Consider options like glass, steel, or fiberglass for specific design needs.
  • Glass Options: Clear glass maximizes transparency, while tinted or frosted glass offers privacy and sun control.
  • Transoms and Sidelites: These fixed glass panels above or beside the door can enhance the visual appeal and create a more open feel.

4. Additional Considerations

  • Fire Resistance Ratings: For buildings with specific fire safety requirements, doors with fire-resistant glass and frames might be necessary.
  • Energy Efficiency: Double-paned glass with insulating gas fills and thermally broken frames can significantly improve energy efficiency.
  • Maintenance: Consider the ease of cleaning and maintaining the chosen door material and features.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying Commercial Storefront Doors

Coming to choosing the right commercial storefront door, requires careful consideration of several factors. Here's a breakdown of the key aspects to keep in mind:

1. Accessibility and Compliance

Accessibility is not just a legal requirement, it’s also good business practice. An accessible entrance ensures everyone can easily enter your store, improving customer experience and avoiding potential legal issues. Here’s what to consider:

1.1 ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) Compliance:

The ADA outlines specific requirements for commercial doors to ensure accessibility for people with disabilities. Key points to consider include:

  • Minimum Door Width:  Doors must be wide enough to allow wheelchairs and other mobility aids to pass through comfortably.
  • Clear Floor Space:  Adequate maneuvering space in front of and beside the door is required for wheelchair users.
  • Threshold Limitations:  Thresholds should be minimal in height to avoid creating a tripping hazard.
  • Operative Mechanisms:  Doors should be easy to open and close with minimal force, consider automatic door options or levers instead of knobs.
  • Signage:  Clear signage indicating accessible entrances is crucial.

For detailed guidelines and technical specifications, consult the ADA Standards for Accessible Design or refer to resources from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) website.

1.2 Local Building Codes:

In addition to ADA compliance, adhere to all relevant building codes set by your local authorities. These codes might address aspects like:

  • Fire Safety:  Fire doors with specific ratings might be required depending on the building’s use and occupancy.
  • Maximum Door Weight:  This regulation ensures the door can be safely operated and maintained.
  • Hardware Requirements:  Local codes might specify details like handle height or push/pull activation mechanisms.

2. Security

A secure storefront door deters crime and gives peace of mind. Consider:

  • Locking Systems: Multi-point locks with high-security cores offer superior protection.
  • Door and Glass Material: Impact-resistant glass and sturdy door frames minimize the risk of break-ins.
  • Security Glazing: Laminated glass or polycarbonate glazing provides an extra layer of security.

3. Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient doors can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs. Look for:

  • Double-Paned Glass: Filled with insulating gas, it minimizes heat transfer.
  • Thermally Broken Frames: Reduce heat transfer between the interior and exterior.
  • Weather Stripping: Creates a tight seal to prevent drafts.

4. Material Selection

The door material should be both aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting. Consider:

  • Aluminum: Durable, low-maintenance, offers a modern look.
  • Wood: Warm and inviting, requires more maintenance.
  • Glass: Provides transparency and a sleek look, consider tinting or frosting for privacy.
  • Steel: Highly secure, good for industrial settings, may require painting.

5. Customization and Design

Make a statement with a customized door that reflects your brand identity. Explore options for:

  • Glass Design: Etching, frosting, or custom patterns can enhance the visual appeal.
  • Transoms and Sidelights: Fixed glass panels flanking the door create a more open feel.
  • Hardware: Choose hardware finishes that complement the overall design.

6. Maintenance and Longevity

Consider the ease of cleaning and maintaining the chosen door material and features to ensure it looks its best for years to come.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when selecting commercial storefront doors that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, secure, and energy-efficient.

Opting for the Perfect Commercial Storefront Doors with AORBIS Inc.

Choosing the ideal commercial storefront door requires careful consideration of various factors, as discussed throughout this guide. But navigating those options and finding a reliable door hardware supplier can be another challenge. That’s where AORBIS Inc. comes in.

AORBIS Inc. is a leading supplier of premium quality commercial doors hardware, specializing in fulfilling the needs of architects, builders, and property developers in the East Hartford, Connecticut area. We understand the importance of selecting the perfect storefront door and offer a comprehensive range of services to assist you:

  • Extensive Product Selection: AORBIS Inc. carries a wide variety of commercial storefront doors in various styles, materials, and functionalities. Whether you require a sleek, modern aluminum door or a classic swinging wood door, we have options to suit your project’s aesthetics and needs.
  • Technical Expertise: Our experienced team possesses in-depth knowledge of building codes, ADA compliance standards, and energy efficiency best practices. We can guide you through the selection process, ensuring your chosen door meets all the requirements.
  • Customization Options: AORBIS Inc. understands the importance of creating a unique entrance that reflects your brand identity. We can work with you to explore customization options like glass etching, transoms, and hardware finishes to create a door that stands out.
  • Reliable Installation: Partnering with qualified installers is crucial for ensuring the proper functioning and longevity of your storefront door. AORBIS Inc. can recommend experienced professionals to handle the installation process.

Conclusion

Storefront doors are more than just exits and entrances. They’re the handshake of a building, the first impression that sets the tone for the entire experience. They also play a crucial role in functionality, security, aesthetics, and even your building’s energy efficiency.

This guide unpacks these key considerations to help you make informed decisions. Remember, by partnering with the right suppliers of storefront doors and door equipment, you can transform a simple doorway into a design statement that reflects your brand.

So, choose wisely! A well-crafted storefront door outfitted with the appropriate door accessories isn’t just functional, it’s an invitation to a space you designed with purpose.

“Elevate Your Entryways: Empower your architectural vision with this guide to choosing impactful commercial storefront doors.”

FAQs

1. What are some creative ways to use storefront doors to enhance a building's design?

While functionality is important, storefront doors offer exciting design possibilities. Consider incorporating transoms and sidelights for a more open feel, or explore unique glass treatments like etching or frosting for added visual interest. Don’t forget hardware – different finishes can complement the overall architectural style.

High-speed doors are ideal for warehouses, loading docks, and industrial settings where minimizing heat loss or dust infiltration is critical. They prioritize function over design, so they might not be suitable for a retail storefront.

Absolutely! Partnering with a reputable commercial door supplier like AORBIS Inc., can be a huge asset. They possess in-depth knowledge of building codes and ADA requirements, ensuring your chosen door meets all the necessary specifications. They can guide you through the selection process, saving you valuable time and frustration.  

11 Jun

Fire Defense 101 : How Fire-Rated Doors Safeguard Your Commercial Building

Author AORBIS Inc 0 Comments Categories Blog

Picture this: a fire breaks out in your building. Panic ensues, smoke spreads, and the clock is ticking. In moments like these, fire-rated doors are the silent heroes that buy you time—time for occupants to escape, firefighters to intervene, and assets to be protected.

But here’s the kicker: fire doors aren’t just about compliance; they’re about real-world, life-saving impact. From containing fire to preserving evacuation routes, they are engineered to do what no ordinary door can—act as the first line of defense when everything is on the line.

If you’re in construction, you know safety and functionality aren’t optional—they’re essential. So why gamble with your building’s fire protection strategy? Read on to discover how fire-rated doors are more than a necessity; they’re an investment in safety, resilience, and peace of mind.

What is a Fire-Rated Door?

Fire-rated doors are specially designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke between rooms or areas in a building. They’re made from durable materials like steel, solid wood, or fire-resistant doors with glass, and play a key role in a building’s overall fire safety system. These doors of fire act as barriers, helping protect both people and property during a fire.

What are Fire Doors Designed to Do?

1. Life Safety:

Fire-rated doors are essential for keeping people safe. They slow down the spread of fire and smoke, giving people valuable extra time to escape.

2. Property Protection:

By containing the fire in one area, fire doors help minimize damage to the rest of the building and its contents.

3. Building Code Compliance:

Many local building codes require NFPA 80-compliant fire doors to be installed. This ensures that the building meets safety standards and provides peace of mind for everyone inside.

4. Lower Insurance Costs:

Buildings with fire-rated doors often qualify for lower insurance premiums, as they reduce the risk of significant damage or loss in the event of a fire.

5. Noise Reduction:

Fire doors also offer soundproofing benefits, helping to reduce noise between rooms or floors, making the building quieter and more private.

6. Energy Efficiency:

The materials used in fireproof doors help with insulation, keeping your building more comfortable by maintaining a steady temperature year-round—warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

In short, fire-rated doors are a smart investment for any building, not only boosting safety but also improving energy efficiency and reducing costs in the long run.

Where Are Fire Doors Required?

Fire doors are a crucial safety feature in all types of buildings, helping to protect lives, reduce property damage, and prevent the spread of fire and smoke.

1. In commercial buildings, fire doors keep evacuation routes clear and protect public spaces.

2. In residential settings, residential fire-rated doors act as barriers between apartments and common areas, slowing the spread of fire.

3. In hospitals and nursing homes, indoor fire doors are especially important in protecting vulnerable patients, particularly in high-risk areas like operating rooms.

4. Hotels, schools, factories, and other public buildings rely on fire doors to maintain safe escape routes and contain dangerous areas.

5. In transportation hubs, fire doors also called smoke barrier doors manage foot traffic and ensure emergency exits stay accessible.

6. In larger spaces, fire doors divide the building into fire-resistant sections, limiting how far a fire can spread.

Even elevator shafts are fitted with fire-rated doors to prevent smoke and fire from traveling between floors.

How Do Fire Doors Work?

Fire doors are crucial safety features designed to help contain fires and prevent them from spreading throughout a building. Their main job is to act as a barrier, keeping fire and smoke in one area, which gives people more time to escape and provides firefighters with a safer environment to do their job. Some self-closing fire doors have automatic closing mechanisms that kick in when heat or smoke is detected.

Key Parts of a Fire Door

A fire door consists of several important components that work together to keep you safe:

Key Parts of a Fire Door

1. Door Leaf:

This is the actual door itself, which swings open and closed. It’s typically made from fire-resistant materials like steel, wood, or a combination of both, designed to withstand high temperatures.

2. Door Frame:

The frame holds the door in place and keeps it aligned. Just like the door, the frame needs to be made from fire-resistant materials to ensure it doesn’t compromise the door’s effectiveness in stopping a fire.

3. Hinges:

These metal parts allow the door to open and close smoothly. Fire-rated hinges are specially designed to handle heat without failing.

4. Intumescent Seals:

These seals expand when exposed to heat, filling any gaps between the door and its frame to prevent fire and smoke from slipping through.

5. Smoke Seals:

Smoke seals prevent smoke from seeping around the edges of the door. This is crucial for keeping escape routes clear and breathable during a fire.

6. Glazing (Vision Panels):

Some fire doors, such as a 20-minute fire-rated door with glass, have fire-resistant glass panels that allow you to see through the door while still offering protection from the fire.

7. Latching Mechanisms:

These are the locks or latches that keep the door securely shut during a fire, preventing the spread of fire and smoke.

8. Closing Devices:

These are mechanisms, like door closers or spring hinges, that automatically close the door after it’s been opened, ensuring it remains shut when needed.

9. Protection Plates:

These metal plates are attached to the bottom of the door to protect it from damage. If they extend more than 16 inches, they must be labeled as fire-rated.

10. Door Coordinator:

In the case of double doors, a door coordinator makes sure the doors close in the proper order to maintain the fire door’s effectiveness.

11. Astragals:

These strips are attached to the edges of double doors, helping to seal the gap between them and prevent fire and smoke from passing through when they’re closed.

12. Door Viewer (Spy Hole):

This fire-resistant peephole allows you to see through the door without opening it, maintaining the door’s fire safety.

13. Signage:

Fire door signs, like “Fire Door – Keep Shut,” serve as reminders not to prop the door open, ensuring it’s used as intended in an emergency.

14. Thresholds and Sills:

These are located at the bottom of the door and often feature seals to prevent smoke from entering underneath the door.

15. Air Transfer Grilles:

These grilles allow air to flow through the door while automatically closing in the event of a fire, helping maintain the door’s fire resistance.

Every part of a fire door plays an important role in stopping the spread of fire and smoke, and keeping everyone safe. To ensure it functions properly, regular maintenance and checks are essential.

What Materials Are Fire Doors Made Of?

Fire doors are constructed from materials that can resist high temperatures and stay strong during a fire. Common materials include:

1. Timber (Wood):

Wood is often used for residential fire-rated doors because it burns at a steady rate, offering reliable fire resistance.

2. Steel:

Steel is tough and durable, making it a popular choice for fire-resistant doors in industrial settings or warehouses.

3. Gypsum:

Often used inside fire doors, gypsum helps absorb heat and prevent the door from becoming too hot to handle.

4. Glass:

Special fire-resistant glass is sometimes used in fire doors to provide visibility while still offering protection from the flames.

Types of Fire Doors:

1. Fire Doors by Fire-Resistance Rating

Types of Fire Doors by Fire Resistance Ratings

Fire doors are rated based on how long they can withstand a fire before they fail. The number next to the door’s name shows how many minutes it can resist fire:

• 20-minute fire-rated doors: FD20 AND 30 are typically used in areas with low fire risk, like homes or small offices.

• 45-minute doors: Common in hallways or between rooms.

• 60-minute (1-hour) doors: FD60 are installed in places that need more protection, like between different spaces or hazardous areas.

• 90-minute doors: FD90 are often found in stairwells or elevator shafts.

• 120-minute (2-hour) doors: FD120 are used in high-risk environments, like factories or areas storing hazardous materials.

These ratings help ensure the fireproof door can resist fire long enough to stop it from spreading while still maintaining its strength.

2. Fire Doors by Function (How They Operate)

Fire Doors by Function (How They Operate)

Fire doors come in different styles, depending on how they open or close:

1. Swinging Fire Doors:

These are the most common type, opening and closing like a regular door. You’ll find them in homes, offices, hallways, and stairwells.

  • With Regular Hardware:

These have standard door handles and locks, but are still rated for fire safety.

  • With Fire Door Hardware:

These doors are designed as a complete fire-rated system, with door, frame, and hardware all tested to work together for maximum fire protection.

2. Horizontally Sliding Fire Doors:

These slide open and closed on a track, often used in large spaces like factories where a swinging door would take up too much room.

3. Vertically Sliding Fire Doors:

These doors slide up and down, similar to a garage door. They’re great for tight spaces like service counters or elevator shafts.

4. Rolling Steel Fire Doors:

Made from steel slats that roll up into a coil above the opening, these are typically used in warehouses or loading docks where large openings need to be secured.

5. Accordion or Folding Fire Doors:

These fold up like an accordion when open. They’re useful in places with wide openings, like auditoriums, where a standard door might be too large or impractical.

3. Fire Doors by Material 

Fire doors can also be classified by the materials they’re made from:

1. Timber (Wooden) Fire Doors:

Made from solid wood or wood-like materials, these are often used in homes or office buildings. They provide both fire protection and an attractive appearance.

2. Steel Fire Doors:

Made from steel, these doors offer stronger fire resistance and are commonly found in high-risk areas like factories or warehouses.

3. Glass Fire Doors:

These doors are made with fire-resistant glass, so they offer visibility while still providing fire protection. They’re often used in office buildings or areas where you need to see through the door but also need fire safety.

Standards, Testing, and Inspection of Fire-Rated Doors

Standards, Testing, and Inspection of Fire-Rated Doors

1. Standards:

In the U.S., fire-rated doors must meet specific safety standards, including NFPA 80, NFPA 105, NFPA 252, UL 10B, and UL 10C. These tests are designed to assess how well the door performs in a fire, checking how long it can withstand heat and flames. They also include a hose stream test, where water is sprayed on the door to see how it handles the shock of sudden temperature changes.

2. Testing:

Fire-rated doors undergo rigorous testing to determine their fire endurance—this tests how long they can resist heat and flames without failing. In addition, the hose stream test evaluates the door’s ability to endure thermal shock, which happens when cold water is applied to the door’s hot surface, simulating the effects of fire-fighting efforts.

3. Fire Door Inspections:

Regular inspections are crucial to ensuring fire doors continue to perform as intended.

Here’s what to check for during an inspection:

• No damage: Ensure the door has no visible holes, cracks, or other surface damage.

• Parts intact: The glazing (glass) and frame should be intact and securely attached.

• Proper alignment: The door, frame, and hardware should align properly and function smoothly.

• Self-closing and latching: The door should close on its own and latch securely without any issues.

• No unauthorized modifications: The door shouldn’t have any alterations that could compromise its fire resistance.

Regular inspections are crucial to ensuring fire doors continue to perform as intended. These checks align with NFPA 80 standards, which include requirements like verifying fire door labeling, checking fire door rating labels, and ensuring self-closing mechanisms function properly.

How to Identify a Fire-Rated Door or What Makes a Door Fire-Rated?

Here is what makes a door a fire-rated door:

How to Identify a Fire-Rated Door or What Makes a Door Fire-Rated?

• Certification label: A label on the edge or frame of the door that shows its fire rating and the manufacturer’s details.

• Material: Fire doors are typically made from durable materials like steel, solid wood, or specialized composites that can withstand high temperatures.

• Special features: Many fire doors have intumescent seals that expand when exposed to heat, helping to block smoke and flames.

• Hardware: Fire doors often include self-closing mechanisms and latches to ensure they stay closed in the event of a fire.

Parting Thoughts

In the high-stakes world of building safety, fire-rated doors aren’t just another box to check—they’re a vital investment in protecting lives and property. Whether it’s a 20-minute fire-rated door for a home or a self-closing fire door in a commercial space, these fire-resistant doors can mean the difference between chaos and control, panic and escape, devastation and containment.

If you’re in construction, ask yourself this: Can you afford to cut corners when it comes to fire safety? A fire door, compliant with standards like NFPA 80, isn’t just a door—it’s a shield, a safeguard, a silent sentinel standing between disaster and survival. So, as you plan your next project, remember: Fire-rated doors don’t just meet codes; they set the standard for safety, resilience, and peace of mind.

AORBIS stands as the most trusted and reliable partner in fortifying your premises, equipping you with the right door hardware solutions for comprehensive fire protection. With an unparalleled selection of over 300 door styles, 90 frame designs, and 48,000 hardware options in 10+ materials, AORBIS is the best choice for fire-rated doors. We even offer fire-rated door specifications to ensure you get the exact solution tailored to your building’s needs.

Let us help you enhance your fire safety strategy—Contact AORBIS today to explore our full range of fire-rated doors and door hardware options!

FAQs

Are fire doors needed for cabinets?

Fire doors aren’t typically required for regular cabinets, but cabinets that hold flammable or hazardous materials have to follow stricter fire safety guidelines. For instance, cabinets designed to store flammable liquids must have self-closing doors, a lock that secures the door in three different places, and the bottom of the cabinet must be raised at least 2 inches to help contain any spills.

Yes, fire doors are generally required for circuit cabinets, especially in areas with complex electrical systems or higher fire risks. These doors help contain fires that could start due to electrical issues, preventing the fire and smoke from spreading to other parts of the building.

To find the building rules for doors:

1. Identify the Relevant Codes: Start by figuring out which building codes apply to your area, such as the International Building Code (IBC) or your local regulations.

2. Consult Official Sources: Visit official websites or publications from organizations like the International Code Council (ICC) for the IBC.

3. Review Specific Sections: Focus on parts of the code that cover fire safety and exit requirements, such as Chapter 9 (Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems) and Chapter 10 (Means of Egress) in the IBC.

4. Get Expert Advice: If you’re unsure, talk to building inspectors or fire safety professionals who can offer guidance specific to your project.

Fire code requirements for exit doors typically include:

1. Fire Resistance: The doors need to be able to withstand fire for a set amount of time, depending on their location and purpose.

2. Self-Closing: The doors should automatically close in the event of a fire to prevent the spread of smoke and flames.

3. Clear Access: Exit paths must remain unobstructed, and the doors should open in the direction people will be moving during an evacuation.

4. Easy-to-Use Hardware: The doors must have handles or locks that are simple to operate—no keys, tools, or special skills required—so people can escape quickly.

Common materials used for fire doors include:

• Timber: Wood is commonly used because it burns in a controlled manner, helping to manage the spread of fire.

• Steel: Steel is strong and provides excellent fire resistance, often holding up for a long time during a fire.

• Gypsum: This material absorbs heat, which helps slow the fire’s progress.

• Glass: Special fire-resistant glass is used for windows in fire doors, allowing visibility while still offering fire protection.

The choice of material depends on how fire-resistant the door needs to be and where it will be installed.

Whether exterior doors need to be fire-rated depends on their location and purpose in the building. For example, the walls around stairways or ramps that provide an exit must meet specific fire-resistance standards. To know exactly what’s required, it’s important to check your local building codes and regulations.

AORBIS supplies and distributes fire-rated doors in West Palm beach, Florida and other states in the USA designed to meet specific safety standards and building codes. These doors are constructed to withstand fire for designated periods, helping to contain the spread of fire and smoke within a building.

To get a fire-rated doors specifications PDF, please chat with us via our chatbot. We can provide you the fire-rated doors specifications PDF and assist with any specific requirements you may have.

11 Oct
Standard Wood Door Finishing System Ratings

Standard Wood Door Finishing System Ratings

Author AORBIS Inc Categories Infographic

Infographic - Standard Wood Door Finishing System Ratings

Download an A2 size (16.5″ x 23.4″) print-friendly “Standard Wood Door Finishing System Ratings” The chart indicates overall performance scoresto provide the specifier with a guide to select the system that meets the resistance needs of the project.

This infogrpahic also specifies system number and chemical description for clarity.

To know more about our doors & hardware supply services, feel free to contact us now.

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