What Are Door Closers?

A very frequent question we encounter in the architectural hardware industry is: What exactly is a Door Closer? In simple terms, a door closer is a specialized mechanical or automatic hardware device designed to ensure a door closes securely and safely after it has been opened.

Surface Mounted Door Closers

When professionals in the commercial door business discuss door closers, they are primarily referring to surface-mounted door closers. This robust hardware is installed directly onto the door and the door frame using heavy-duty fasteners.

The mechanism features a linkage arm that connects the main body of the door closer to a mounting bracket, often called a "shoe." Depending on the structural circumstances and swing requirements of the opening, the closer body can be attached to the door itself, while the shoe connects to the frame. Conversely, the body can be mounted on the frame with the shoe attached to the door.

The most significant benefit of equipping your facility with commercial door closers is the extensive range of control they offer over the door's swing and closing motion. Properly adjusted hydraulic closers help maintain building security, regulate air flow to reduce HVAC costs, and are strictly required on fire-rated doors. By automatically securing the door behind escaping occupants, they play a critical role in preventing the spread of fire and smoke.

Alternative Door Closing Solutions

Beyond traditional surface-mounted hardware, other door closing solutions include automatic door operators and spring hinges. Utilizing spring hinges is an incredibly economical alternative when project budgets are a primary concern.

It is important to note that spring hinges do not offer the same comprehensive adjustability as standard hydraulic door closers. The internal mechanism can be tightened to increase tension for positive latching, or loosened to reduce the closing speed. However, aside from basic spring tension, advanced fluid swing control is not available.