The 5 Different Types of Commercial Doors, and How to Find the Right One for You

There are a variety of commercial garage doors available on the market today, with different doors being suitable for different kinds of businesses. When choosing a garage door, it’s important to know what purpose each different type of commercial garage door serves so you can end up with the right one for you.

Garage doors are more than just a point of entry, being critical for providing access to vehicles and equipment, loading and unloading materials, and ensuring the security of your business. The four primary types of commercial garage doors are roll-up doors, fire doors, commercial gates and security grilles, each of which is suited to different types of commercial properties.

1. Rolling Doors
   Commercial rolling doors are known for the security and weather protection they provide, constructed from heavy materials forming a ribbed steel curtain that moves vertically. Requiring a significant amount of side room and headroom, rolling doors are best suited to warehouses and distribution centers with plenty of space.
2. Sectional Doors
   Sectional doors are a more lightweight version of the classic roller door, comprising of rigid panels that are hinged together and open vertically, then horizontally across the ceiling. While requiring more maintenance, sectional garage doors are a great, responsive option for businesses that see frequent traffic enter and exit through the garage.
3. Fire Doors
   Fire doors, as the name suggests, offer protection from fires while also being noise-resistant and insulating. They are often used in fire departments, warehouses, and parking garages, with a handy automatic closure feature if a fire or alarmed incident occurs. Additional features inclusive a weather seal and glass options that allow for increased strength and insulation.
4. Security Grilles
   Folding security grilles provide protection while allowing for visibility, used often in shopping centers, banks, offices, and airports to protect against theft and damage. Security grilles are available in various materials, such as aluminum or galvanized steel, with panels made of clear polycarbonate or tempered glass.
5. Security Shutters
   Security shutters are an attractive option for buildings that see high pedestrian activity but still require a flexible security option. Hospitals, liquor stores and more can all benefit from security shutters, which are easy to roll up or down as needed.

Before choosing your commercial garage door from the above options, ask yourself the following questions:

• • What’s your budget?
    The more high-tech your door is, the more you’ll have to fork up. Bear in mind that when it comes to protecting your business, a quality investment will be well worth it.
  • How vulnerable is your commercial property? Scope out the potential security risks your business and employees may face, such as the suburb you are in or the kind of products you stock. Depending on the risk factors you face, you may want to consider higher security upgrades.
  • Do aesthetics matter?
    If your commercial property is an office, restaurant or any other building that is visible to potential customers and clients, ensure you have an aesthetically pleasing garage door. For properties like warehouses and factories, the appearance of your garage door is likely not to matter so much.
  • Do you require insulation?
    If temperature regulation is important for your products, go for an insulated garage door. Doors that provide good insulation will also help your property conserve energy and keep your bills low.
  • Does the door need to have windows?
    Your need for windows will vary depending on the nature of your business. Businesses with large amounts of valuable stock will be best off choosing a door without windows, to hide your products from prying eyes. For other businesses, windows can be a stylish and practical touch, such as car dealerships, design firms or gyms, allowing you to enjoy natural light and showcase your business.
  • How often will the door be used?
    Parking garages will need a garage door that operates smoothly and can handle heavy use, while shops will only need to raise or lower their doors a few times a day.