Types of Commercial Garage Doors

Commercial garage doors are vital to businesses for security, efficiency, and curb appeal. Knowing the different types of commercial garage doors will help us choose the right one for our needs.

In this blog, we will educate you on the different types of commercial garage doors, from sectional to high-speed. Each type serves a purpose that can benefit multiple businesses and properties.

Sectional Garage Doors

Sectional garage doors are horizontal panels connected by hinges, allowing maximum space inside and outside the garage. Made from steel, aluminum, or fiberglass, they can be insulated for better energy efficiency. Customization options include panel styles, colors, and window designs, making them suitable for any business aesthetic.

Pros

Insulation – Reduces heating and cooling costs, perfect for extreme temperatures.
Security – Sturdy construction makes them harder to break into.
Customization options – Available in multiple sizes, colors, and finishes to match business branding.

Cons

Higher initial cost – More expensive than other garage door types, especially with insulation and customization.
Regular maintenance is required. Tracks and hardware need upkeep to prevent operational issues and costly repairs.

Ideal Applications

Due to their high-traffic-flow design, sectional garage doors are suitable for various commercial settings, such as warehouses, retail stores, and automotive facilities. Because of their insulation properties, they are also beneficial in areas that require temperature control, such as cold storage units or climate-sensitive production areas.

Rolling Steel Garage Doors

Rolling steel garage doors are compact, space-efficient doors made of steel slats. Available in customizable finishes, they are energy-efficient, durable, and suitable for commercial use. They can withstand harsh weather and provide security against fire, making them ideal for large and small openings.

Pros

Durability: Made of rigid materials, they resist dent and impact damage.
Space Efficiency: They roll up neatly, allowing maximum clearance and accessibility.
Low Maintenance: Fewer moving parts mean less wear and tear, which means lower maintenance needs.
Security: Their robust design provides resistance against break-ins and gives you peace of mind.
Energy Efficiency: Insulated rolling doors can help reduce energy costs.

Cons

Higher initial cost: The upfront cost can be higher than other door types.
Installation Complexity: Professional installation is recommended, which can add to costs.
Limited Aesthetic Options: While customizable, there are fewer design choices than sectional doors.
Potential Noise: The rolling mechanism can create noise, which may be a concern in quiet environments.

Ideal Applications

Rolling steel garage doors are suitable for:

Warehouses: Their durability makes them perfect for high-traffic areas.
Distribution Centers: Easy access points for efficient movement of goods.
Retail Stores: Security during non-operating hours.
Manufacturing Facilities: Can withstand daily operations.
Auto Services: Space-saving design for service bays.

High-Speed Doors

High-speed doors are commercial garage doors that open and close in seconds. They strengthen and reduce weight and are made from durable materials like vinyl and aluminum. They control temperature and prevent contaminants in warehouses, loading docks, and manufacturing facilities.

Pros

Improves workflow efficiency – Fast operation minimizes downtime, allowing faster movement of goods and personnel.
Temperature control – These doors let you make the most of refrigerated areas where a consistent environment is critical.
Enhanced safety – Many models have sensors to prevent accidental closures and reduce injury risk.
Compact design – These doors need less space. This makes them perfect for areas with limited room.

Cons

Higher installation cost – More expensive than standard doors due to technology and materials.
Specialized maintenance required – Mechanical issues must be addressed quickly and may require skilled technicians.
Limited suitability – May not perform as well in extreme weather conditions as other door types.

Best Use Case

High-speed doors are best for high-traffic areas that require fast entry and exit. Common applications are:

Manufacturing facilities: Production lines where time is critical.
Distribution centers: Quick loading and unloading can improve logistics.
Food processing: Strict temperature control is required in this industry.

Fire-Rated Garage Doors

Fire-rated garage doors are made from steel and have special seals and mechanisms. They are designed to withstand a specific fire duration: 20 minutes, 45 minutes, 60 minutes, 90 minutes, or 240 minutes. Fusible links will close the door in a fire, allowing occupants more time to evacuate safely.

Pros

Safety: They provide a fire barrier, protecting lives and property.
Compliance: Many areas require these doors to meet local fire codes, helping businesses comply with regulations.
Insurance Benefits: Fire-rated doors can lower insurance premiums and reduce risk.
Durability: Made from robust materials, these doors have a long lifespan, making them cost-effective in the long run.

Cons

Cost: They are more expensive than standard doors due to specialized materials and engineering.
Maintenance: These doors require regular inspections to operate correctly in an emergency.
Limited Designs: Compared to non-rated doors, aesthetic options may be limited, which can affect the overall look of your facility.

Ideal Applications

Fire-rated garage doors are suitable for:

Warehouses: These areas often require fire separation between sections for safety and compliance.
Manufacturing Facilities: These doors are essential to prevent fire spread where hazardous materials are stored.
Parking Garages: Fire-rated doors can contain flames and smoke during emergencies, providing safe escape routes.
Loading Docks: They protect against fires from loading and unloading activities.

Other Types

Folding doors are a great alternative to traditional doors in limited spaces. They can be folded to the side, providing a wide opening for warehouses or loading docks.

Accordion doors function similarly, expanding or contracting to save space. They offer flexibility in opening and closing, perfect for areas that need quick access. These doors can also enhance a business’s appearance.

Pass-through doors can be integrated into larger doors for added convenience. They allow easy pedestrian access without opening the entire door. This feature can improve workflow during peak hours.

Choosing The Right Door

When choosing a commercial garage door, we must consider several key factors.

Budget
First, we need to set a budget. Different doors have different price tags, depending on the materials and features. We must balance quality with our budget.

Frequency of Use
Consider the frequency of door use. High-traffic operations may require faster, more durable options that withstand wear and tear.

Security Needs
Security is also essential. We need to assess our specific security needs. Our door should provide adequate protection against theft and vandalism.

Insulation Requirements
Insulated doors can save energy costs by maintaining a stable indoor climate, so temperature control is crucial.

Aesthetics
The door’s look matters, too. It should match our business’s branding and look. A well-designed door can make a good impression on our customers.

Businesses – Make Informed Decisions

When choosing a commercial garage door, consider insulation, durability, space, security needs, and traffic volume. Sectional doors are suitable for insulation and durability, rolling steel doors are ideal for limited space and heavy usage, and high—speed doors are for high-traffic areas. By identifying their specific requirements, businesses can make informed decisions that enhance security and operational functionality. By choosing the right door, we can ensure that our doors meet our needs and that our business operations will improve.

At Two Brothers Garage Doors, we specialize in helping businesses find the perfect commercial garage door solution. Whether you need a durable sectional door, a space-saving rolling steel door, or a high-speed option for busy operations, our expert team is here to guide you. Contact us today for a consultation, and let’s find the right door for your business!