In this piece, we will be discussing the two main categories of automatic doors in Northern Ireland: the swing doors and the sliding doors. We will provide a detailed analysis of both types to help you make a well-informed decision on which one is most suitable for your specific needs.
What Does An Automatic Swing Door Include?
An automatic swing door is a type of door that functions automatically to open and close. It usually consists of two or more panels connected at a central pivot point, allowing the door to swing open in either direction.
How Do They Operate?
Automatic swing doors work by using an electronic sensor located near the floor. When a person approaches the door, the sensor detects their presence and sends a signal to the door controller.
The controller then activates the door motors, opening the doors wide enough for people to pass through. Once the person moves out of the sensor’s range, the controllers turn off the motors, and the doors shut.
Possible other methods of activation:
- Power Assist- Activates the door using reduced force.
- Push and Go- Starts the opening process when the door is manually pushed.
- Sensor Activated- Starts the opening process when motion is detected.
- Press Pad- Starts the opening process when pressed.
- Access Control- Starts the opening process after an authorised user passes an access check.
Automatic doors in Northern Ireland, including swing doors, often use these methods of activation to ensure both accessibility and security.
User-Friendliness
Businesses often prefer automatic swing doors due to their user-friendliness and convenience. These doors have sensors that detect an approaching person, triggering the doors to open automatically. This eliminates the need for manual operation, making it extremely convenient for both employees and visitors. This feature is particularly beneficial in high-traffic areas such as shopping malls, hospitals, and office buildings.
Features
- Available in both single and double versions.
- Can be fitted onto most existing doors.
- The door can swing open in either direction, being anchored on pivot/hinge points.
- A wide variety of door leaf finishes are available.
- Handles can be added.
- Various glazing options are available.
Maintenance
One significant advantage of automatic swing doors is their low maintenance requirements. It is crucial to keep the sensors free from obstructions and ensure the door hinges are properly lubricated.
The durability of a swing door is a significant advantage; with regular maintenance, it can operate well for 5-10 years before showing signs of wear. However, this lifespan can be extended with routine maintenance checks.
Advantages
- Can be fitted onto existing doors.
- Cost-efficient.
- Complies with standard requirements for disabled access.
- Allows a broad entrance.
- Suitable for one-way traffic.
- Can support heavy doors.
- Has a classic appearance.
- Can be securely locked.
Automatic Sliding Doors
An automatic sliding door is a type of door that operates automatically, sliding open and closed. It usually consists of one or more panels that move along a track, enabling the door to slide open and shut.
Functioning
Automatic sliding doors are activated by an electronic sensor located near the floor. When a person approaches, the sensor detects their presence and sends a signal to the door’s control unit. This unit then activates the door motors, moving the panels along the track. Once the person leaves the sensor’s detection area, the control unit turns off the motors, causing the doors to close.
User-Friendliness
Automatic doors in Northern Ireland are favoured by businesses for their user-friendliness and convenience. These doors have sensors that detect an approaching person, which then triggers the doors to slide open automatically. This eliminates the need for manual operation, making it extremely convenient for both employees and visitors. This feature is especially beneficial in high-traffic areas such as retailers, airports, and office buildings.
Besides their user-friendliness, automatic sliding doors offer several other benefits. Firstly, they save space as they open horizontally and do not require any swing space. This makes them ideal for locations with limited space or where efficient space use is a priority.
Automatic sliding doors are also beneficial for accessibility. They make it easier for people with mobility challenges, such as those using wheelchairs or pushing strollers, to enter and exit buildings without needing assistance. This not only meets legal requirements for accessibility in many places but also shows a business’s commitment to being inclusive and accessible to all.
Thirdly, automatic sliding doors can contribute to energy savings. By opening only when someone is approaching and closing immediately after they have passed, the doors help minimise the loss of conditioned air, thereby reducing the building’s energy consumption.
Maintenance
Like all automatic doors, automatic sliding doors require regular maintenance to ensure smooth operation. It is crucial to clean the sensors and tracks regularly and lubricate the door hinges every few months.
Benefits
- Ideal in areas with continuous foot traffic.
- Available in a wide range of sizes.
- Options for single/double openings.
- Long-term cost-efficiency.
- Suitable for bidirectional traffic.
- Operates using sensors.
- Preferred by hospitals.
- Applicable for both interior and exterior.
- Sleeker design due to lateral opening function.
- Reduced likelihood of collisions.
We Are Here For You
Leveraging our expertise and years of experience, we can evaluate your unique circumstances, take into account all pertinent factors, and suggest the most suitable automatic door solution for your requirements. Additionally, we can provide a comprehensive breakdown of the pros and cons of each alternative, aiding you in making a well-informed choice.
Our approachable and knowledgeable staff is always available to support you, from the initial consultation through to the installation and upkeep of your automatic doors. We are dedicated to delivering top-notch service and ensuring your contentment.
In summary, there is a vast selection of automatic doors in Northern Ireland. If you are uncertain about the most fitting type for your needs, it is recommended to consult a professional installer, like ourselves, who can guide you in making the most informed decision.
We provide the best automatic doors in Northern Ireland, customised to accommodate everyone’s needs. Our devoted and amiable team is always ready to offer help and support. Your contentment is our utmost priority, and we are devoted to providing the highest standard of service to fulfil your requirements.