Do you know how much of your annual budget is dedicated to doors and hardware, especially locking hardware? While it may not be one of your big ticket items, it’s still an easy area to reduce spend. With the amount of abuse back doors can take, it’s no surprise that we are commonly asked:
“What are some things I can do to increase the longevity of my back doors and hardware?”
New doors and hardware can be expensive, and they’re something you need to take good care of in order to get your money’s worth. Some things like not propping your back door open in a downpour may seem like common sense; however, you’d be surprised at the actions people sometimes take that can really damage a door.
Top 10 Ways to Increase the Longevity of Your Doors and Hardware
Call a Technician
While it seems a little ‘cart before the horse’ to have this #1 on the list, it’s really the easiest solution. At the very first sign of any problem that can’t (obviously) be properly fixed by you, call a tech. If you notice the door dragging, slamming, sticking, etc., call. Early repairs prevent further damage caused by the issue at hand, and quickly relieve the resultant stress on other hardware on the door.
Use the Hardware Properly
While this should be one of the aforementioned “common sense” items on the list, that’s unfortunately not always the case. On more than one occasion, we’ve been called out for malfunctioning panic devices only to see a foot imprint on the hardware. We also have to replace a fair number of keys and cores because people pull the door closed with the key. Properly using the hardware is only going to do one thing – increase the longevity of your doors and hardware.
Change the Batteries
Changing batteries on your panic alarms on a regular basis will ensure you are always notified of any unauthorized exit from the building. Plus, you’ll avoid that annoying low battery chirp. That alone is worth changing the batteries!
Use a Proper Door Stop
If you have to prop the door open, use a proper door stop. We’ve seen countless back doors with hinge problems caused by objects such as brooms and mops being wedged into the hinge and frame. Neither one of these is considered proper door stops and can damage your door.
Avoid Getting the Door Wet
Every now and then, restaurants need to hose out their kitchen floors. When doing this, make sure the back door is propped open (with a proper door stop) and avoid getting water on the door. Getting the door and hardware wet can cause a number of issues including interior door rust and hardware damage.
Don’t Install Anything that Holds Moisture on the Exterior of the Door
Adhesive signs and large kick plates can hold a lot of moisture. When moisture is held in between the sign or kick plate and the door, that will cause rusting.
A Solid Coat of Paint
Paint will help you avoid rust. If you see any chipped paint, you should touch it up ASAP. If you do happen to see some rust forming, wire brush the area thoroughly and paint it with primer and a good exterior paint.
Comply With Fire Code
Installing any auxiliary locking hardware such as deadbolts and police bars on any exterior door labeled as an exit may be a fire code violation. If you’re violating fire code, it’s unsafe for anyone within the building. Moreover, if cited by the fire marshal, you can be forced to pay hefty fines and will be required to install the proper hardware, all of which will cost you time and money.
Avoid the Rain
That sentence alone may sound impossible, but it really isn’t. If it’s raining outside, it isn’t a good idea to have your back door propped open. Not only does that leave your exit vulnerable to rust, but it also can damage any electrical equipment.
Open the Door Properly
On multiple occasions we’ve seen employees push doors open with carts, their foot, etc. Levers and exit devices are there for a reason. If you use them correctly, you’re going to have doors and hardware that last a lot longer.
For such an expensive piece of hardware, it’s surprisingly simple to keep things in good working condition. At LockNet we’re happy to help with any questions you may have regarding getting the most out of your back doors.