Commercial Doors Don't Last Forever
Roll-up doors are designed for dependable operation, but they're mechanical systems that experience wear every time they open and close.
In warehouses, workshops and commercial facilities, that can mean thousands of operating cycles over the life of a door.
Routine maintenance can extend service life, but eventually facility owners need to decide whether continued repairs still make sense.
Warning Sign #1: The Door Is Becoming Difficult to Operate
A properly functioning door should operate smoothly.
If a door suddenly becomes unusually difficult to raise, lower or control, don't simply force it.
Changes in operation can indicate that components require inspection or service.
Because roll-up door assemblies contain springs and other components under tension, repairs should be handled appropriately rather than improvised.
Warning Sign #2: Visible Curtain Damage
Inspect the door curtain.
Dents, bends and other damage may affect more than appearance.
Significant deformation can interfere with the way the curtain travels through the guides or coils above the opening.
Warning Sign #3: Corrosion
Steel doors are designed for durability, but environmental exposure can eventually affect metal components.
Pay particular attention to doors exposed to coastal environments, moisture, chemicals or other corrosive conditions.
Surface appearance isn't the only consideration. Hardware and operating components should be inspected too.
Warning Sign #4: Repeated Service Calls
One repair doesn't necessarily mean a door needs replacement.
But when the same aging door requires service again and again, compare the continuing repair expense with the cost and benefits of installing a new door.
Repeated downtime also has a cost in a commercial facility.
Warning Sign #5: The Door No Longer Fits the Building's Use
Sometimes the door still works—but the business has changed.
Perhaps larger trucks now need access.
Maybe the warehouse is being climate controlled.
Perhaps a manual door is being opened far more frequently than originally anticipated.
Replacement can be an opportunity to choose a door better suited to the building's current use.
Warning Sign #6: Security Has Become a Concern
Doors are part of the building's security.
Damage to the curtain, locking components or guides should not be ignored.
If an aging door no longer provides the level of security required by the operation, replacement may be worth considering.
Warning Sign #7: Appearance Is Hurting the Property
Commercial doors occupy a large portion of many building exteriors.
Old, faded or heavily damaged doors can make an otherwise well-maintained facility appear neglected.
Replacing doors can improve both function and exterior appearance.
Repair or Replace?
There isn't one rule that applies to every door.
Age, condition, repair history, replacement-part availability and the building's current use should all be considered.
A relatively new door with a minor issue may be an obvious repair candidate.
An older door with corrosion, repeated operating problems and an outdated configuration may tell a different story.
Upgrade Your Commercial Doors
Duro Doors supplies replacement and new-construction door solutions for warehouses, steel buildings, self storage facilities, garages and commercial properties.Whether you're replacing one damaged door or upgrading multiple doors across a facility, our team can help you identify appropriate options.
Call Duro Doors at 800-872-5740 to discuss your existing doors and request replacement pricing.