Door Closers (12)

Door Closers: A General Guide

Door closers are devices designed to close doors automatically and safely after opening.

Widely used in both residential and commercial settings, door closers provide controlled door movement, support fire safety, and enhance building security.

Table of Contents

1. What is a Door Closer?
2. How Door Closers Work
3. What are the Different Types of Door Closers?
4. How to Know Which Door Closer to Use
5. Can you fit a Door Closer to a uPVC Door?
6. How to Install a Door Closer

1. What is a Door Closer?

A door closer is a mechanical device that automatically closes a door after it has been opened. It's commonly used in both residential and commercial buildings for safety, security and convenience.

2. How Door Closes Work

Door closers automatically return a door to its closed position after opening, using internal mechanisms to control speed and force. This section explains the key components and principles behind how they operate.

• Mechanical Door Closers - These typically use a spring-loaded hydraulic system. When the door is opened, the hydraulic fluid is pushed through valves, which control the speed of the closing action
• Electronic Door Closers - These often involve electromagnets that hold the door open until a signal (like a fire alarm) is received, at which point the door closes automatically

3. What are the Different Types of Door Closers?

Door closers come in various types, each suited to different settings and requirements. This section outlines a couple of the most common door closers.

• Overhead Door Closers - These are mounted on the door frame, usually with an arm that connects to the door
• Concealed Door Closers - These are hidden within the door frame or door itself for a more aesthetic look

4. How to Know Which Door Closer to Use

Choosing the right door closer depends on factors like door size, usage frequency, location, and safety requirements. This section will guide you through the key considerations.

1. Door Type and Size

• Weight and Width - Heavier and wider doors need stronger closers with higher power ratings
• Material - Glass doors may require floor-spring or concealed closers; wood or metal doors can use surface-mounted closers

2. Mounting Style

• Surface-Mounted - Easiest to install and the most visible
• Concealed/Integrated - Looks the most aesthetically pleasing, but is much more complex to install
• Floor or Overhead Concealed Closers - Often used in high-end or glass applications

3. Fire-Rated Requirements

• Certification - If the door is a fire door, the closer must be certified for fire safety, ensuring it can keep the door closed in case of a fire

4. Traffic Volume

• High-Traffic Areas - Buildings that have a high frequency of footfall require durable, heavy-duty closers
• Low-Traffic Areas - Areas that do not experience much traffic usually only use lighter, less expensive models

5. Opening Angle and Hold-Open Feature

• Opening Angle - Consider how far the door needs to open (e.g. 90º or 180º)
• Hold-Open Feature - Hold-open closers keep the door open until manually closed. These are not allowed on fire doors unless they have electromagnet release connected to a fire alarm system

6. Environmental Conditions

• Outdoor Use - Needs corrosion resistance and should function in varying temperatures
• Cold Climates - Choose a model with temperatures-resistant hydraulic fluid

7. Adjustable Features

• Closing Speed - If you wish to change your door-closing speed then make sure to purchase a door closer with adjustable speed.
• Latching Speed - Latch speed refers to the speed of the door at 15º. If you wish to control the speed of the final 15º of movement, choose a door closer with an adjustable latching speed
• Back check (slows door before it hits full open) - A back check is designed to stop the door opening fast from the opposite side of the door closer. Make sure to look for a door closer with an adequate back check if you wish to prevent the door from opening fast from the opposite side
• Delayed Access (slows closing for easier access) - Designed to stop the door from closing instantly, choose a door closer with a delayed access function to allow the door to stay open whilst people pass through

5. Can you fit a Door Closer to a uPVC Door?

Fitting a door closer to a uPVC door is possible, but it requires the right type of closer and proper installation to avoid damaging the door. This section explains what to consider and how to do it correctly.

1. Preparation

• Read the Instructions - Consult the door closer and mounting plate instructions for model-specific guidance
• Assess the Door - Consider the doors opening direction, whether it opens inward or outward, and any potential obstructions like multipoint locks or decorative glazing
• Choose the Right Closer - Select a door closer designed for uPVC doors, preferably one that offers an optional mounting plate

2. Mounting

• Install the Mounting Plate - If required, attach the mounting plate to the uPVC door using screws and appropriate fixings, potentially drilling extra holes for a secure fit
• Position the Closer - Align the door closer body with the frame and the arm with the door, following manufacturer instructions and templates
• Secure the Closer - Attach the door closer body to the mounting plate using bolts (if applicable)
• Attach the Arm - Secure the closer arm to the door, ensuring it's at the correct length and aligned properly
• Adjust - Fine-tune the closing and latching speeds using the adjustment screws on the closer

3. Final Steps

• Check for Smooth Operation - Open and close the door to ensure the closer functions correctly without binding or excessive force
• Test the Closing Speed - Adjust the closing and latching speeds as needed to achieve the desired performance
• Consider a Back Check - If the door is in a windy location, consider a back check closer to prevent slamming

6. How to Install a Door Closer

Installing a door closer involves careful positioning and secure mounting to ensure proper function and safety. This section walks you through the basic steps and tools needed for a successful installation.

Tools Required

• Drill and Drill Bits
• Screwdriver (Phillips Head)
• Pencil
• Tape Measure
• Level
• Safety Glasses
• Utility Knife
• Masking Tape
• Hex Keys

Step 1: Determine the Door Swing Direction - Begin by identifying the swing direction of your door. To do this, stand behind the door jamb while the door is open, if the door is on your right, it is a right-hand swing door, if it's on your left, it's a left-hand swing door. Once you've identified the swing direction, you can decide which side to install the door closer on. Typically, the closer is mounted on the garage or room side to keep it out of the main living space.

Step 2: Mark the Drilling Locations - If your door closer kit includes a template, you may find different options for left and right-hand swing doors. Choose the correct template, cut it out using a utility knife, and tape it to the door according to the instructions. If there is no template provided, refer to the manufacturer's guidelines to identify the correct drilling spots. Use a pencil to mark the positions, measuring the hinge side of the door. Place a speed square against the top of the door and draw vertical lines through your pencil marks. Then, use a tape measure or the ruler on the square to mark the height of each hole along the vertical lines. Be sure to also consult the instructions to locate the correct position on the door jamb for the swingarm attachment.

Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes - Using a power drill fitted with a small drill bit, make pilot fitted with a small drill bit, make pilot holes at the marks you created. After that, switch to the correct drill bit size to enlarge the holes. Avoid drilling all the way through the door; usually, drilling to a depth of about ¾ of an inch is sufficient. If you're unsure, check the manufacturer's recommendations.

Step 4: Install the Door Closer Body - Most door hardware uses a No.3 Phillips bit, so install one in your drill for this step. Use the screws included in your kit to secure the door closer to the door, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Make sure you install the closer in the correct orientation as indicated in the directions.

Step 5: Mount the Swingarm Bracket to the Door Jamb - Keeping the No.3 Phillips bit in your drill, use the provided hardware to attach the swingarm bracket to the door jamb. It may help to temporarily detach the swingarm from the door closer, as one of the mounting holes is often difficult to access when there is tension in the arm.

Step 6: Connect and Adjust the Swingarm - If you removed the swingarm earlier, now is the time to reattach it to the closer. Follow the instructions in your kit to ensure proper alignment. Typically, this involves loosening the set screw on the arm and adjusting it so that the portion connected to the jamb sits perpendicular to the jamb itself.

Door closers play a crucial role in maintaining safety, security, accessibility, and energy efficiency in both residential and commercial buildings. By automatically closing doors after use, they help control traffic flow, ensure fire doors remain shut, and support compliance with building codes and accessibility standards. When selecting a door closer, it's important to consider factors such as door size, usage frequency, environmental conditions, and regulatory requirements. With the right choice, a door closer can offer reliable performance, extend the life of the door, and contribute to a safer, more functional space.

For further technical information relating to our range of door closers, please telephone our main sales line on 01772 431 216 or email [email protected].