Hollow metal door frames are crucial to many building’s safety and functionality. But they are also incredibly expensive to replace.
As a business owner, your primary goal is to keep expenses under control. Maintaining your commercial doors is just one easy way to do this. By fixing small issues early on and making them last longer, you can avoid the high cost of replacements.
Maintaining hollow metal door frames also helps to secure your property. When your door frames are in good condition, they act as a strong barrier against unauthorized entry.
When it comes to maximizing the lifespan of your commercial metal door frames, Thompson Garage Doors is a name you can trust. Whether you need inspections, repairs, or preventative maintenance, we’re equipped to keep your garage doors and frames operating smoothly.
In this guide, we’ll explore the ABCs of maintaining hollow metal door frames.
But before we dive into the meat and potatoes of this post, let’s discuss what hollow metal door frames are.
Table Of Content
1. Understanding Hollow Metal Door Frames
2. Identifying Maintenance Needs
3. Cleaning and Routine Care
4. Preventative Measures
5. Repairing Minor Damage
6. Handling Major Repairs
7. Seasonal Maintenance Considerations
8. Specialized Care for Different Environments
9. Ensuring Safety and Security
10. Cost-Effective Maintenance Strategies
11. The Bottom Line
Understanding Hollow Metal Door Frames
Hollow metal door frames are exactly what they sound like – frames made from steel that are hollow on the inside. This construction allows for strength and durability, all while keeping the frame lightweight.
The steel used in these frames is typically cold-rolled or galvanized for added protection against corrosion and damage.
With their strength and security features, hollow metal door frames are generally used for interior/exterior doors in commercial settings. You’ll often find them in schools, hospitals, office buildings, and retail stores.
In residential settings, they’re used with entry doors, custom garage doors, and garage doors with man doors.
Benefits of Hollow Metal Door Frames
Hollow metal door frames are popular for many reasons. Some of the biggest benefits of these types of frames include:
- Durability to withstand heavy use.
- Most are fire-rated doors.
- Provide a solid barrier against intruders.
- Fire-rated
- Require minimal maintenance compared to wood.
- Last for decades with proper care.
Despite their durability, hollow metal door frames require regular maintenance to function at their best. Let’s talk about how you can keep them in peak condition.
Identifying Maintenance Needs
Routine checks can help you identify and address issues with your commercial door frame before they escalate into costly problems.
- Start by visually inspecting the entire surface of the door frames, inside and out. Look for signs of damage, such as dents, scratches, or rust spots.
- Make sure the door frames are properly aligned with the door and its surrounding structure.
- Keep an eye on the hardware, including the exit devices, door closers, hinges, and more.
- Check the hardware attached to the door frames, including hinges, handles, and locks.
- Inspect the weather stripping for signs of wear and damage.
- Keep an eye out for moisture-related problems.
A few signs your hollow metal door frames need attention are:
- Rust
- Dents and scratches
- Loose hardware
- Warped or bent frames
- Damaged weather stripping
If you notice these red flags during your inspection, contact Thompson Garage Doors. We’ll assess your metal door frames and conduct repairs as needed.
Cleaning and Routine Care
To maintain your door frames, the first step is to clean them regularly.
Mix a small amount of soap with warm water and use a soft sponge to wipe down the frames.
Use gentle, circular motions to remove dirt and grime without causing harm. Avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners that can scratch the metal’s surface. Once the door frames are clean and rinsed, dry the surface with a cloth. Moisture left on the metal can lead to rust or corrosion over time.
You may also consider polishing your hollow metal doors and frames periodically to remove stubborn stains and restore shine. Choose a metal polish designed for steel surfaces and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
Work in small sections, using circular motions to buff the polish into the metal. Allow the polish to dry to a haze, then buff it off with a clean, dry cloth.
How often you clean and polish your commercial door frame will depend on your environmental conditions, usage, and personal preferences. As a rule of thumb, we recommend cleaning your door frames at least once every three to six months.
Preventative Measures
Preventative maintenance goes a long way in helping your metal door frames stand the test of time. Here are some steps to take.
Prevent Rust
Paint your door frame to minimize rusting. A good coat of paint freshens up your door frame AND acts as a barrier against moisture. Opt for a paint that’s specifically made for metal surfaces.
Weatherproofing Strategies
Check for any gaps around your door frame and seal them with weather stripping or caulk. This keeps water from sneaking in and starting trouble. Moreover, do a scan to make sure the frame leaves no gaps. Even small openings can let in moisture, leading to rust and deterioration over time.
Lubrication and Hinge Maintenance
A squeaky hinge or issues with the door closers is more than just annoying — it’s a tell-tale indicator of wear. Use a silicone-based lubricant to keep the hinges moving smoothly. Also, make it a habit to inspect the hinges and the door frame for signs of wear or rust. Catching issues early can save you a lot of trouble later.
Repairing Minor Damage
When it comes to repairing minor damage on your commercial door frames, the first step is to handle small dents and holes. You can fill these in with a metal filler – which is a kind of putty designed specifically for metal surfaces.
Apply the putty to the affected areas, let it dry as per the instructions, then sand it down to ensure the surface is smooth and flush with the rest of the frame.
For surface scratches, fine-grit sandpaper can work wonders. Gently sand the affected area until the scratch blends with the surrounding surface. Next, choose a paint that matches your door frame’s color and finish. Apply it with a small brush, covering the treated areas without overstepping onto the untouched parts.
Handling Major Repairs
If the damage compromises the frame’s structural integrity or function, it’s time to consider replacing the damaged sections.
Under such circumstances, calling in the professionals is your best bet. Experts in metal door frame repairs are equipped to offer solutions that aren’t apparent to the untrained eye. They have the tools, skills, and experience to make sure your door frame is restored hassle-free.
You can reach out to a service provider by phone or by submitting a request through their website. Be prepared to provide details about the nature and extent of the damage, as well as any specific concerns/requirements you may have.
Once you’ve contacted the professionals, they will schedule a consultation to assess the damage and discuss potential solutions. After the assessment, the professionals will provide you with a detailed estimate outlining the cost of the repairs or replacements needed. Review the estimate carefully and ask any questions you may have before proceeding with the repairs.
Seasonal Maintenance Considerations
It’s important to adapt your commercial door maintenance strategy to tackle seasonal demands.
Winter: Apply weather stripping to guard against cold drafts and moisture, which can lead to rust. Check the insulation around the frame to keep the warmth in and the cold out.
Summer: Focus on lubricating hinges to prevent sticking from heat expansion and ensure proper closure to keep insects out.
Autumn: Clean the frames to remove debris and potential moisture-trapping elements. Inspect for any damage or wear that might have occurred during the extremes of summer and touch up paint as needed.
Spring: Spring is a good time for a thorough inspection following winter’s wear and tear. Address any issues like rust spots or loose hardware to prepare for the rest of the year.
Specialized Care for Different Environments
In Sparks, with its dry summers and cold winters, your hollow metal door frames need a maintenance plan that’s right for the climate.
Here’s how to keep them in top shape, especially in industrial settings.
- Be sure to regularly lubricate hinges and locks. The dry air in Sparks can lead to them sticking or wearing out faster than you’d expect.
- Big temperature swings can warp or crack your frames. Weatherstripping and thermal breaks can help keep everything tight and right.
- Protect frames from chemical exposure and physical damage with appropriate barriers. A good clean now and then will keep them in fighting form.
Additionally, make sure to have a garage door specialist regularly check your hollow metal door frame. This way, you’ll spot issues early and avoid big expenses later.
Ensuring Safety and Security
Commercial door maintenance goes beyond looks and longevity.
Start by making a habit of checking your door’s lock mechanisms. A sturdy lock is your first line of defense against unwelcome guests, so give it the attention it deserves.
Next, fire safety is non-negotiable. Equip your doors with fire-rated hollow metal door frames so people have enough time to escape during an emergency. Check if the frames meet specific standards for fire and smoke containment.
Lastly, regularly review your door frames to see if they’re up to code. Following building codes can keep your facility safe and compliant.
Cost-Effective Maintenance Strategies
You need a smart maintenance strategy to keep your commercial garage doors in top shape without overspending.
Budget for your maintenance needs. Allocate funds for regular upkeep, like inspections and minor repairs, so you’re never caught off guard by sudden expenses.
Furthermore, weigh the pros and cons of DIY versus professional services. You can handle tasks such as painting or simple adjustments yourself to save on labor costs. But for complex repairs that require specialized knowledge, hiring professionals is a worthwhile investment.
The Bottom Line
To sum up, cleaning door frames doesn’t have to be a daunting or expensive task. With the right approach — budgeting smartly, balancing DIY efforts with professional help, and understanding the value of regular maintenance — you can keep your commercial door frames and steel doors in prime condition.
Do you have more questions about hollow metal door frames? The team at Thompson Garage Doors will be happy to answer them. Get in touch with us for premium garage door repair and installation services today!
