25 Dec 4 Tips for Choosing the Right Commercial Overhead Door for Your Business
Buying a commercial overhead door is not the same as purchasing a residential garage door. As a business owner and/or public property owner, you need to consider several key factors—as well as your own standards—for choosing the most suitable model for your business. These factors often differ greatly from those of a regular homeowner.
Commercial garage doors are more durable and are much more capable of withstanding wear and tear. They’re typically made of high-grade materials and heavy-duty mechanisms. As such, installation and maintenance require considerable expertise.
For business owners, your options can be overwhelming – from varying materials like steel, aluminum, and wood composite, to particular performance details like insulated or steel framed. To help you better decide on the right commercial overhead door for your business, check out these important qualities you need to look for:
1. Longevity and Durability
The best commercial overhead door is one that is as durable and hardy as it is easy to care for. Low-maintenance service doors that can stand the test of time work best for commercial buildings. They’re long lasting and can open up much quickly than other types of garage doors—three times faster than roll up overhead doors, in fact!
You can also choose from a wide range of sizes or customize your own. They often come in multiple materials and colors, so you’re never short of aesthetical options. The R-Value ratings of most service doors are between R0 to R9, meaning they work well for urban areas that experience mild weather changes.
2. Fire Safety
Does your business require you take extra precautions—i.e. you work with heavy machinery, hazardous chemicals, open flames, etc.? Then you probably have an extra set of fire safety and protection protocols in place. That being said, fire overhead doors may be the right choice for you.
Commercial overhead doors that are certified flameproof are perfect for businesses that have a higher than average risk factor concerning fire. They are reliable, practical, and function just like all other overhead garage doors. Take note that fire doors also have a lower R-Value rating. This means that they work well for businesses in areas with a more stable climate. If you want to maintain a consistent air temperature, fireproof is definitely a factor you want to consider in your selection.
3. Insulation
Speaking of consistent temperature, insulated commercial doors are a perfect choice for those who want thermally efficient security. They can protect your property from strong winds and rain, as well as keep the interior temperature regulated for maximum energy efficiency. During the summer, insulated steel doors can keep your establishment cool thanks to its R-Value rating of R10 and up. And during the winter months, these types of commercial doors can keep your property nice and toasty.
Want to Learn More About the Difference Between Insulated and Non-insulated Doors? Read this!
4. Aesthetics
Of course, physical appearances also matter when choosing commercial garage doors. Aluminum and fiberglass doors look great for urban commercial businesses such as auto dealerships, service stations, and car washes. Glass doors, on the other hand, are great choices for consumer-saturated commercial buildings like restaurants, salons, showrooms, etc., since they can let the light in, effectively keeping things looking fresh and airy.
Choosing the most ideal commercial overhead door for your business should never be a daunting task. At Frontier Pacific, we’ll work together to figure out which overhead door fits all your business needs.