What is a Door Closer and What Do They Do
Often overlooked and under-appreciated, A door closer is a kind of mechanism that holds the door automatically in place. It is a vital and essential part of a door’s anatomy that is commonly installed in hospitals, schools, commercial buildings, hotels, and sports facilities. There are several different types of door closers available, depending on your specific needs and preferences.
At first glance, it seems simple enough to understand what a door closer does: they hold the door closed so it doesn’t open all the way or swing back and forth while you’re trying to get through it. Dive deeper with us and learn more about how door closers work and what types exist. We think you’ll agree that they actually do much more than just keep doors shut.
Types of Door Closers
Door closers are available in many different sizes and shapes. Each type of door closer has its own specific use, therefore it is important to know what you need before purchasing a door closer. Four of the most common types of door closers are:
- Surface-Mounted Door Closers – This door closer can be fitted into a door frame with a bar at the back of the door. It is rather popular because of its small size and can be matched with the door’s color.
- Concealed Door Closers – Commonly found in residential settings and are fitted into the door or the frame in such a way that they remain hidden. This style offers an aesthetic look to doors as they are less visible when the doors are closed. These door closers are available as spring-loaded or hydraulic versions and are typically used for interior doors.
- Overhead Door Closers – considered to be one of the most common and widely used types of door closer, there are three variations of overhead door closers:
- Parallel Arm – Two arms sit on top of the door. It is with the assistance of a spring-loaded box attached to the door and powers the closing action. These door closers are commonly found in schools and commercial properties.
- Regular Arm – This is one of the most power-efficient options of all. The regular arm has two arms, one of which is attached to the door frame while the other arm is attached to a spring-loaded box. When closed, both arms project perpendicularly from the door.
- Top Jam – The main difference between this type of overhead door closer and others is that the top jamb has a spring-loaded box mounted on the face of the doorframe. These are typically used for aluminum doors or glass doors.
- Floor-Spring Door Closer- This type of door closer is commonly used on glass doors and is mounted on the floor so that it can be concealed. A bar is fitted on the underside of the door that controls the closing action. There is also a setting so that the doors can be left open. You can usually find these at most upscale commercial properties.
Benefits of Installing a Door Closer
Besides the aesthetics and functionality of door closers, there are three main reasons why door closers are necessary:
- Security – If you have a door that is not closing properly, this will allow easy access. Installing a door closer will automatically close the door behind you and provide added protection against unwanted visitors.
- Safety – In case of a fire, doors must be closed to prevent the spread of fire and allow for occupants to exit the building safely. In order for a door to be approved as a fire-rated door, it must be self-latching and self-closing.
- Energy Conservation – Introduced nearly 150 years ago, door closers assist in energy conservation by allowing limited amounts of air in.
How you select a door closer will depend on your needs. It is important to take into consideration the size of the door, how it should be mounted, what type of application it will have, and its appearance before making a decision. These factors come into play when selecting a new unit for your home or business.