Why Commercial Doors Need Door Closers
A door closer is the small mechanical or hydraulic device mounted at the top of most commercial doors. Its job: automatically close the door behind whoever just walked through, smoothly and reliably. Without a closer, commercial doors get left open — defeating climate control, security, fire compartmentation, and accessibility.
Modern commercial codes effectively require door closers on most exterior doors and many interior doors:
- Fire-rated doors must be self-closing and self-latching to maintain their fire rating
- Smoke barriers require auto-closing for smoke compartmentation
- Exterior doors typically close automatically for climate / security
- ADA accessibility requires that closers don't make doors too hard to open (5 lbs max for interior, 8.5 lbs for exterior, with specific timing)
Types of Door Closers We Install
- Surface-mounted closers — The most common type. Closer body mounts to the door or frame, arm extends to the opposite surface. Easy to install, easy to service. LCN 4040, Norton 7500, Sargent 1431, Dorma 8616.
- Concealed-in-frame closers — Hidden inside the door frame for a cleaner look. More expensive, more involved install.
- Concealed-in-door closers — Hidden inside the top of the door itself. Very clean look, premium price.
- Overhead concealed closers — Mounted above the door frame inside the transom area
- Floor-mounted (pivot) closers — In the floor at the bottom of the door, common on premium glass entry doors
- Electromagnetic hold-open closers — Hold the door open during normal operation, release on fire alarm activation
Adjustments That Make a Difference
A properly installed door closer isn't just bolted on — it's adjusted for your specific door and use case:
- Closing speed — How fast the door swings closed from fully open
- Latching speed — How fast the last few inches close to ensure the latch engages
- Back-check — Resistance to over-swinging (protects walls and the closer from kicked-open doors)
- Spring power — Adjustable for door weight and width
- Delayed action — Holds the door briefly to allow accessibility
A door closer dumped on a door with default settings and no adjustment is the reason commercial doors slam, drag, fail to latch, or are too hard to open. Professional installation includes proper adjustment for your specific application.
ADA Compliance Matters
ADA accessibility regulations specify maximum opening force on doors used by the public:
- Interior doors: 5 lbs maximum force
- Exterior doors: 8.5 lbs maximum (varies by jurisdiction)
- Sweep period: Minimum 5 seconds from 90° open to 12° from latch
We adjust every closer install to meet ADA requirements when applicable. Call (253) 796-8550 for door closer installation throughout Auburn and South King County.
