Door closers and pivots work thousands of cycles a day in busy stores and office lobbies. When they start to fail, the door becomes a safety, security and accessibility problem. Here are five signs it is time to call a technician.
1. The door slams shut
A closer that slams has lost hydraulic control or is out of adjustment. Slamming doors break glass, injure fingers and damage frames.
2. The door does not close or latch completely
If the door stops a few inches short, your building is not secure and conditioned air escapes. Often the closer needs adjusting; sometimes a worn pivot or sagging door is the real cause.
3. Oil leaking from the closer
Oil on the floor or on the closer body means the seals have failed. A leaking closer cannot be repaired reliably and should be replaced.
4. The door drags or is hard to open
Dragging usually points to worn top or bottom pivots, loose hinges or a dropped door. A door that is too heavy to open can also fail ADA opening-force requirements.
5. Unusual noises or a wobbling door
Grinding, knocking or a door that moves sideways indicate worn pivots, loose fasteners or damaged arms.
Why fix it early
Small adjustments cost far less than replacing shattered door glass or a bent frame. Regular service also keeps your entrance compliant and secure. Our commercial door repair technicians carry common closers, pivots and exit devices so many repairs are completed on the first visit. If you are considering an automatic entrance, see our page on automatic sliding doors and ADA operators.
Need help with your commercial glass?
CBE Glass serves businesses, property managers and general contractors across Washington DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia. Call (202) 492-0676 (24/7 for emergencies), email bid@cbeglass.com or request a free estimate.
