Commercial automatic sliding doors are easy to come by these days. They are a critical component of a business’s operational efficiency, accessibility, and energy conversation. These doors provide not only convenience but also an enhanced aesthetic appeal to many types of businesses. In this post, we’ll look at the various types of commercial automatic sliding doors and some of their applications in different settings. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about them so you can learn more about automatic doors.

Types of Commercial Automatic Sliding Doors

When you think of commercial automatic doors, you likely think of the two-door kind that slides open when you approach it. There are actually a few different types of automatic sliding doors, each with different perks and benefits for different applications.

Single Sliding Doors

Single sliding automatic doors consist of one moving panel that slides open to one side, often used in narrow entrance spaces. They work well in spots with limited space that still require ease of access for employees and visitors alike. They can also make accommodating higher traffic in a smaller area easier due to their sleek and minimal design that takes up less space.

Bi-Parting Sliding Doors

Perhaps the most common type of automatic sliding door, bi-parting sliding doors feature two panels that open in the middle and slide apart to each side. This type is common at busy entrances such as retail stores or malls for their excellent traffic management. They are great for larger entrances that need to accommodate high traffic while also keeping up the energy efficiency of the building.

Telescopic Sliding Doors

Telescopic sliding doors are less common than other sliding doors, and they have multiple panels (more than two) that slide and stack compactly on one another. This allows for a larger opening in confined spaces. Instead of one or two large panels taking up space on the side of an automatic door, the telescopic panels stack into a smaller space to allow for a larger entrance. These doors are great for areas that need larger entrances but have limited wall space.

Curved Sliding Doors

Curved sliding doors offer a more modern look with panels that slide into a curved track. They are often used in luxury hotels, corporate buildings, and high-end retail stores and are less common than other types of automatic sliding doors. They offer a more dramatic look and make for great entrances that stand out.

Applications for Automatic Sliding Doors in Commercial Settings

Automatic sliding doors are a staple in many businesses, and there’s no shortage of ways they can improve your commercial space. Here are some common use cases where automatic sliding doors are the perfect commercial entry solution.

Retail Stores and Shopping Malls

For larger stores and malls, having an accessible entrance that allows for heavy traffic flow is essential. Automatic sliding doors are not only perfect for this, but they also offer an inviting entrance that is easy for anyone to use and allows for easy traffic flow on busy days.

Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities

From urgent care clinics to large hospital complexes, automatic doors are commonplace. They offer easy access for healthcare professionals transporting patients or equipment on the property, make access easier for those with disabilities, and make entrances appear more open and inviting. Automatic doors are also hands-free, making them a great choice for places that need to mitigate the spread of germs.

Airports and Transportation Hubs

Telescopic and bi-parting automatic doors are perfect for areas like this. Automatic doors help manage heavy traffic flow, and transportation hubs like airports need doors like these to manage the flow of people and their luggage. With telescopic automatic doors especially, small areas that need doors can still maintain efficient access points without sacrificing space.

Hotels and Hospitality Venues

Luxury and convenience are two key traits of automatic doors that dining and hospitality businesses can benefit from. They also help improve the efficiency of your building by ensuring your doors stay closed. This helps keep your energy costs low and your guests comfortable by helping maintain the temperature of your building. 

Office Buildings

Curved, single, and bi-parting automatic doors all work well for office buildings that see a lot of traffic. They elevate the look and feel of corporate office buildings while also benefiting the energy efficiency of your building. Automatic doors also make managing the traffic of your building easy with no need for manual movement of the doors.

Commercial Automatic Sliding Doors: FAQs

How Are Automatic Sliding Doors Energy Efficient?

Aside from being made with insulating glass and metals, automatic doors are designed to open and close quickly. This minimizes the amount of time the door remains open. It also reduces the amount of conditioned air that can escape your building and prevents your doors from being left open accidentally. This makes them more energy efficient than other types of entry doors.

Are Automatic Sliding Doors A Safe Option?

Yes, most automatic doors are quite reliable and don’t pose any safety hazards. So long as the doors are well maintained and looked after, they rarely pose any issues for function or safety. 

Can Automatic Sliding Doors Be Customized?

Yes, but usually not as much as other commercial doors can. With automatic doors, you can sometimes customize the metal finishes, types of glass, or opening mechanism to suit your building. Automatic doors can also be customized to fit the specifications of your building in some cases.

How Do I Maintain My Automatic Doors?

Routine maintenance for most automatic doors includes cleaning the tracks, checking the functionality of sensors, and ensuring all of the mechanical parts are functioning correctly. Some parts can also benefit from being lubed every few months. With automatic doors, it’s always a good idea to have them inspected annually by an AAADM-certified professional or as specified by the manufacturer of your automatic door.

What is the Lifespan of an Automatic Sliding Door?

The lifespan of your automatic door can vary depending on what type of door it is, how often is it used, and how often it undergoes maintenance. Most automatic doors can last 20 years or more. Plus, proper maintenance and timely repairs are key to ensuring you get the most out of your automatic door.

Getting Commercial Automatic Sliding Doors for Your Business

Commercial automatic doors offer a blend of functionality with a sleek look and greater energy efficiency for your building. They are a preferred choice for many commercial buildings and businesses. Different types suit different spaces and needs, so talk to a commercial door professional to find your perfect option.

If you’re looking for AAADM-certified commercial door technicians in Oklahoma City, Norman, or Tulsa, look no further than Commercial Door! We work on, repair, and install commercial automatic doors for all types of businesses in Oklahoma. Give us a call, check out all of our services, and get in touch with us today for a free estimate on your automatic sliding doors.