A surface-mounted door check is a type of door closer that attaches at one end to the surface of the door and at the other, to the frame or wall of the building. Its function is to control the speed at which the door opens and closes and to introduce a delay in closing so that people can safely traverse.
Surface mount door checks are commonly fitted to high-security commercial doors as they offer numerous benefits to building managers and business owners.
Benefits of surface-mounted door checks as security door hardware
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Improve safety
Door checks can suit a variety of different commercial settings, based upon the security door controls applied during installation. They can hold doors open in settings where hygiene is a priority, preventing the need for prolonged contact with the door. They can have a delayed action which enables mobility-challenged individuals time to safely enter or exit. They can also close firmly, even without human intervention, therefore preventing unauthorized access and limiting the spread of a fire should one break out within the building.
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Improve security
By removing the need to physically close the door after access is gained, security is improved as the door will shut itself after a specified duration and remain closed until another authorized person uses it to gain access. When used in conjunction with biometric or keyless entry control systems, surface-mounted door checks are an invaluable feature that can dramatically reduce security breaches and near misses while simultaneously enhancing convenience for authorized building occupants.
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Improve energy efficiency
Depending on the security door controls applied, surface-mounted door checks can dramatically improve a building's energy efficiency by reducing unwanted heat transfer. They prevent doors from being unintentionally left open, allowing heat to escape and causing the ventilation system to work overtime to compensate. They also keep doors closed, even in poor weather conditions, which otherwise may cause them to blow open, not only impacting energy efficiency but potentially harming a passerby.
Choosing the right surface-mounted door check
As with all types of security door hardware, it is important to select a surface-mounted door check based on your specific needs. You should assess the type of door that you have (size, shape and locking mechanism), the type of building you wish to secure and the volume of foot traffic that you are likely to encounter. You should also consider whether security, safety or energy efficiency is your main priority.
High-volume footfall environments such as schools and shopping centers will need a robust door check to enable regular passage, while laboratories and office buildings will require one with a more delicate operation to prevent unnecessary noise disturbance.
High-security environments typically require a door check to make sure that their premises are secure at all times. For this reason, surface-mounted door checks that are installed onto high-security commercial doors are unlikely to have a delayed or hold action but will snap shut tight quickly once access is gained.
To ensure that you select the most appropriate surface-mounted door check for your particular circumstances and environment, you should consult with a commercial locksmith, such as Pro Locksmiths, for bespoke advice, professional installation and follow-up maintenance which will keep your door check operating smoothly, quietly and correctly for years to come.