A sticky or jammed Baytown commercial glass door is more than just annoying. It’s a safety hazard and a disruption to your business. Don’t let a faulty door slow you down!
This guide will show you what to do when your commercial glass door is acting up. We’ll cover everything from simple fixes you can try yourself to knowing when it’s time to call in the pros.
Joey’s Glass is your source for Baytown commercial glass. Call us today!
What’s Wrong with Your Baytown Commercial Glass Door?
Before you can fix a sticky or jammed commercial glass door, you need to figure out what’s causing the problem. Here are a few common culprits:
Misalignment
Your door and its frame need to be perfectly aligned for it to open and close smoothly. Over time, buildings settle, and doors can shift out of place. Even a tiny misalignment can cause your door to stick or jam.
- Signs of misalignment:
- The door scrapes against the floor or frame
- There are gaps between the door and frame
- The door is difficult to open or close in certain spots
Dirt and Debris
Dirt, dust, and grime can build up in the door’s tracks and hinges, making it harder to move. This is especially common in high-traffic areas.
- Signs of dirt and debris:
- You see visible dirt or grime in the tracks or hinges
- The door makes a grinding or squeaking noise when you open or close it
Worn or Damaged Hardware – Baytown Commercial Glass
The hinges, pivots, and closers on your commercial glass door take a lot of wear and tear. Over time, they can become worn or damaged, causing the door to malfunction.
- Signs of worn or damaged hardware:
- The door sags or droops
- The door closer doesn’t work properly
- The hinges are loose or squeaky
Weather
Extreme weather conditions, like high humidity or temperature swings, can affect how your door operates.
- Signs of weather-related issues:
- The door sticks more in humid weather
- The door is difficult to open or close in extreme heat or cold
Troubleshooting & DIY Fixes for Baytown Commercial Glass Door
Now that you have a better idea of what might be causing your commercial glass door to stick or jam, it’s time to try some simple fixes.
Cleaning and Lubrication
A good cleaning can often work wonders for a sticky door.
- Tracks: Use a vacuum or brush to remove any dirt and debris from the door tracks. Then, wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Once dry, apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks. Avoid using oil-based lubricants, as they can attract more dirt and dust.
- Hinges: Clean the hinges with a damp cloth and mild soap. Once dry, apply a light coat of lubricant to the hinge pins.
Adjusting the Door Closer – Baytown Commercial Glass
If your door is slamming shut or not closing all the way, the problem might be with the door closer. Most commercial door closers have adjustment screws that allow you to control the closing speed and latching force.
- Closing speed: If the door is slamming shut, you’ll need to slow down the closing speed. Locate the adjustment screw labeled “closing speed” or “sweep speed” and turn it counterclockwise to slow it down.
- Latching force: If the door isn’t closing all the way, you’ll need to increase the latching force. Locate the adjustment screw labeled “latch speed” or “backcheck” and turn it clockwise to increase the force.
Caution: Be careful not to overtighten the adjustment screws, as this can damage the door closer.
Checking for Misalignment
If you suspect your door is misaligned, you can try a few simple checks.
- Visual inspection: Stand back and look at the door from the side. Does it appear to be hanging straight, or does it tilt to one side? Are there any noticeable gaps between the door and the frame?
- The dollar bill test: Close the door on a dollar bill. If you can pull the bill out easily, there’s probably a gap in the seal, indicating misalignment.
If you notice minor misalignment, you might be able to fix it by adjusting the hinges. However, if the misalignment is significant, it’s best to call a professional.
Addressing Weather-Related Issues
If your door is sticking due to weather conditions, there are a few things you can try.
- Humidity: If the door is sticking in humid weather, you might need to adjust the door closer or add weatherstripping to create a tighter seal.
- Temperature: If the door is difficult to open or close in extreme temperatures, you might need to lubricate the hinges or adjust the door closer.
These are just a few simple fixes you can try. If the problem persists, or if you’re unsure about any of these steps, reach out to a Baytown commercial glass company.
When to Call a Baytown Commercial Glass Professional
While some commercial glass door issues can be fixed with DIY solutions, others require the expertise of a professional. Here are a few situations where it’s best to call Joey’s Glass:
- Persistent Issues: If you’ve tried the DIY fixes mentioned above and your door is still sticking or jamming, it’s time to call in the pros. There might be an underlying issue that requires professional diagnosis and repair.
- Safety Concerns: If the glass is cracked or shattered, or if the door is severely misaligned and poses a safety hazard, don’t attempt to fix it yourself. Call a professional glass repair company immediately.
- Complex Repairs: Some repairs, like replacing door hardware or addressing major structural issues, require specialized tools and expertise. It’s best to leave these tasks to the professionals to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
Remember, your commercial glass door is an important part of your business. Don’t let a faulty door compromise the safety and security of your premises.
Joey’s Glass is your trusted partner for all your commercial glass needs in Baytown. If you’re facing a sticky or jammed door, or any other glass-related issue, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help!