Choosing the Right Metal Door Frame for Your Commercial Project

Jun 19, 2023 | Door Materials

When it comes to selecting a metal door frame for your commercial project, there are several important factors to consider. From size and material to weight capacity and fire safety, each decision plays a crucial role in ensuring the success and longevity of your project. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of choosing the right metal door frame, providing you with valuable insights and helpful tips along the way.

 

Importance of Metal Door Frames in Commercial Projects

Metal door frames play a crucial role in commercial projects for several reasons.

  • Durability: Metal door frames offer exceptional durability and strength, making them ideal for high-traffic areas such as office buildings, retail stores, and hospitals. They can withstand heavy use and resist damage from impacts, ensuring long-lasting performance.
  • Security: Of course, metal door frames provide enhanced security. Compared to other materials like wood or aluminum, metal frames offer superior resistance against forced entry and vandalism. They are less prone to warping, splitting, or being easily broken, providing a robust barrier against unauthorized access.
  • Fire-Resistance: Steel metal door frames are fire-resistant, which is of utmost importance in commercial settings. In the event of a fire, metal frames can help contain the spread of flames and smoke, allowing occupants more time to evacuate safely.

 

 

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hollow Metal Door Frame

 

Frame Typeย 

It’s important to note the two different hollow metal frame types available on the commercial market. These include knock down and welded door frames.

 

Knock Down Door Frame

A knock down door frame refers to a type of door frame that is designed to be easily assembled and disassembled. Unlike traditional door frames that are permanently fixed in place, knock down door frames are made up of separate components that can be taken apart and reassembled as needed. This feature makes them convenient for transportation and installation in areas with limited access or tight spaces. Knock down door frames typically consist of separate jamb legs, header, and threshold, which can be quickly assembled using screws or other fasteners. They are commonly used in commercial projects where flexibility and ease of installation are important factors.

 

Welded Door Frame

A welded door frame is a type of door frame constructed by welding together its components. Unlike knock down door frames that can be easily assembled and disassembled, welded door frames are permanently fixed in place once they are welded together. The components of a welded door frame, such as the jamb legs, header, and threshold, are joined together using welding techniques, creating a strong and durable frame. Welded door frames are commonly used in commercial projects where stability and long-term security are essential.

 

Types of Welded Frames

The difference between face-welded and full-profile welded frames lies in the welding technique used to join the components of the door frame.

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Face Welded Frames: In a face-welded frame, the components of the frame are joined together by welding along the face or front surface of the frame. This creates a strong bond between the components and ensures stability and durability. Face-welded frames are commonly used in commercial projects where strength and security are important factors.

 

Full Profile Welded Frames: On the other hand, full profile welded frames involve welding along the entire profile or perimeter of the frame. This means that all edges and corners of the frame are welded together, creating a seamless and robust connection. Full-profile welded frames provide even greater strength and stability compared to face-welded frames. They are often preferred in high-security commercial settings where maximum resistance against forced entry is required.

 

Frame Gauge

The hollow metal door frame gauge refers to the thickness or size of the metal used to construct the door frame. It is important to consider when choosing a hollow metal door frame for your commercial project.

The frame gauge system works by assigning a numerical value to indicate the thickness of the metal. The higher the gauge number, the thinner the metal. For example, a lower gauge number, like 16 gauge, indicates a thicker and more durable metal compared to a higher gauge number, like 20 gauge.

 

Choosing the Right Gauge for Your Commercial Building

When selecting a frame gauge, it is crucial to consider the specific requirements of your commercial project. Thicker gauges provide increased strength and durability, making them suitable for high-traffic areas or locations where security is a priority. However, they may be more expensive and heavier to install.

On the other hand, thinner gauges can be more cost-effective and easier to handle during installation. They are commonly used in areas with lower traffic or where security is not a major concern.

Ultimately, the choice of frame gauge depends on factors such as the level of security required, the expected usage of the door frame, and budget considerations. It is advisable to consult with professionals or suppliers who specialize in commercial door frames to determine the most appropriate gauge for your specific project.

 

Fire Rating

Steel doors are fire-rated, meaning they have been tested and certified to meet specific fire safety standards, and they are also fire-resistant, as they can help contain the spread of flames and smoke in the event of a fire.

 

Why Choosing a Fire-Rated Hollow Metal Steel Door is Crucial for Safety

A fire-rated steel door is crucial for safety on a commercial property due to its ability to withstand and contain the spread of flames and smoke in the event of a fire. These doors have been tested and certified to meet specific fire safety standards, providing an added layer of protection for occupants and valuable assets. By preventing the rapid spread of fire, these doors allow more time for evacuation and minimize the potential for injury or loss of life. Additionally, they help to limit property damage by confining the fire to a specific area, reducing the overall impact of the fire incident. Therefore, choosing a fire-rated hollow metal steel door is essential in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals within a commercial building.

 

Material

Two materials to consider when selecting the perfect metal door frame for your commercial door are steel and aluminum.

Steel metal door frames and aluminum metal door frames have distinct characteristics that can be compared and contrasted.

When it comes to strength and durability, steel door frames are generally stronger than aluminum door frames. Steel is a heavier and denser material, making it more resistant to impact and force. On the other hand, aluminum is a lightweight metal that is less sturdy compared to steel.

In terms of corrosion resistance, aluminum door frames have an advantage. Aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer that prevents rusting and corrosion. Steel, on the other hand, is prone to rusting if not properly coated or treated.

Another aspect to consider is cost. Steel door frames tend to be more affordable compared to aluminum door frames. However, the exact pricing may vary depending on factors such as frame design, size, and manufacturer.

When it comes to aesthetics, both steel and aluminum door frames offer various design options. Steel frames often have a more industrial and robust appearance, while aluminum frames can provide a sleek and modern look.

Overall, the choice between steel and aluminum door frames depends on specific requirements such as strength, corrosion resistance, budget, and desired aesthetics. It is recommended to consult with a professional or supplier to determine the best option for your particular needs.

 

Let Us Help You Get the Right Metal Door Frame for Your Property

Choosing the right metal door frame for a commercial project can be overwhelming, but with the right information and guidance, you can make an informed decision that will benefit your project in the long run. Before making a purchase, take the time to consider the size, material, weight capacity, and fire safety of the product. With this blog post as a guide, you can make the best decision for your commercial project. Get started today and find the perfect metal door frame for your project!

 

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