On Tuesday, we discussed the issues that commonly arise when using wood doors on an exterior opening. While wood doors are beautiful, they just can’t hold up to the elements like they need to. CurriStain doors solve this problem, but that still leaves you scratching your head on what to do about your interior wood doors. There are no ‘elements’ for them to hold up to, but are they functioning efficiently for your facility? Interior wood doors and frames can be less functional than other door and frame materials, and they tend to have issues such as sagging and splitting. If you’re like countless others who have tried to use wood doors on a kitchen entrance, you have probably long replaced them with double acting doors for the ease-of-use that’s necessary for your kitchen staff. Likewise, if you’ve tried to use wood doors in a wood frame, you’re likely having issues with long-term durability. The good news is that there are constant innovations to accommodate these issues, and products that work in tandem with your beautiful wood doors are already available to solve these two common issues.

Wood Doors – Kitchen Application

If you’re operating, managing, building, or specifying hardware for a restaurant you don’t need me to tell you that the kitchen door HAS to be double acting. You also don’t need me to tell you that your architect is likely giving you some push back on the ugly metal door you requested to replace the wood doors he originally specified. Fortunately, there is a solution that will make both of you happy. Horizontal spring hinges manufactured by McKinney (pictured right) are attached to the bottom of the door; the installation requires only a single rectangular mortise cut and provides the ability for double-action. I told you it was easy – the architect is happy because your wood door remains beautiful, and your restaurant staff is happy because the door is easy to use.

Wood Frames

Now that you know how to use your wood door on the kitchen as well as interior and exterior openings, you have a couple of choices regarding the frame. Option one – you can install this beautiful wood door with a metal frame [please don’t actually do that]. Option two – you can use the wood frame and take your chances with its longevity. A wood frame can’t hold up to the guaranteed beating it will receive in a high traffic commercial setting. When installed in the traditional manner the frame begins to sag and disconnect from the opening, causing a plethora of issues from door alignment to safety hazards. Option three – install a frame that has the durability of metal but looks like wood. Timely Industries has created a heavy-duty frame accompanied by a wood casing for visual appeal. The frame itself is available in steel, aluminum or PVC, all of which are known for their long-term commercial lifespan and durability. The casing can be custom milled by Timely or provided by an outside supplier of your choice. At installation the frame is installed as usual followed by the wood casing, which is simply attached using a nail gun or trim head screws. Even fire-rated doors are optional; simply apply the wood casing with hot melt glue or contact adhesive on all fire-rated frames and glazed openings.

Have we solved your burning questions about wood doors yet? Did we miss something? Let us know in the comment section – we’ll make it our mission to find a solution for whatever issue you’re having!
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