Door closures are devices that are installed on doors to ensure that they close automatically and securely after being opened. These devices are commonly used in commercial and residential buildings, where they provide an important layer of security and safety.

However, with so many different types of door closures available on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is best for your specific needs. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of door closures available and their unique advantages, helping you to choose the right one for your building or facility.

What are the Different Types of Door Closers?

Door closures come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be mounted on different types of doors, including wood, metal, and glass. They work by using a spring-loaded mechanism that closes the door once it is released, ensuring that the door is always shut and locked when not in use.

There are three main types of door closers:

1. Surface-mounted door closers
2. Overhead door closers
3. Concealed door closers
4. Floor-spring door closers

Each kind has multiple types that you can choose from as well. As you read through this post, you’ll gain insight into which type of door closer is suitable for your needs, along with the advantages and disadvantages of each type.

Surface-Mounted Door Closers

Surface-mounted door closers are one of the most common types of door closers and are easily recognizable due to their visible placement on the surface of the door. As the name suggests, these closers are mounted on the door’s surface and connected to the frame using brackets or other hardware.

Surface-mounted door closers come in a range of sizes and styles to accommodate various door sizes and weights. They are available in both manual and automatic options, and their closing force can be adjusted to suit the needs of the door and the building.

Pros and Cons of Surface-Mounted Door Closers

Surface-mounted door closers offer several advantages, but they also have some disadvantages to consider. Let’s take a closer look at some of the pros and cons of surface-mounted door closers.

Advantages:

• Surface mounted door closers are easy and quick to install without the need for any special tools or equipment.
• Available in a wide range of sizes and styles, making them suitable for various door sizes and weights.
• Compared to other types of door closers, surface-mounted door closers are relatively inexpensive, making them a popular choice for many building owners and facility managers.

Disadvantages:

• Surface mounted door closers are mounted on the surface of the door and can be unattractive to some people.
• More susceptible to damage and vandalism due to their visibility.
• Not as adjustable as other types of door closers, such as overhead closers.

Examples of Surface-Mounted Door Closers

There are several examples of surface-mounted door closers available on the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are a few examples:

1. Norton 1600 Series: This series of surface-mounted door closers is designed for heavy-duty commercial applications. They offer adjustable spring sizes and adjustable backcheck for added versatility. The Norton 1600 Series also features a slimline cover for a more streamlined appearance.
2. LCN 4040XP: The LCN 4040XP is a surface-mounted door closer that is designed for institutional and industrial applications. It offers adjustable spring power and an adjustable backcheck feature for added flexibility.
3. Sargent 351 Series: The Sargent 351 Series is a surface-mounted door closer that is designed for medium-duty commercial applications. It offers a choice of four adjustable spring sizes and a variety of arm options for added versatility.
4. Yale 2701 Series: The Yale 2701 Series is a surface-mounted door closer that is designed for light-duty commercial applications. It features a compact design for a more streamlined appearance.

Qualified Hardware provides an extensive range of surface-mounted closers, sourced from the top brands in the door hardware industry, including LCN, Norton, Sargent, and several others. These brands come with their distinctive attributes and functionalities, making them ideal for specific applications.

Overhead Door Closers

Overhead door closers are one of the most commonly used types of door closers, particularly in commercial and public buildings. These closers are mounted on the surface of the door, typically at the top of the frame, and use a mechanical arm to control the movement of the door. They can be used on a wide range of doors, including wood, metal, and glass doors.

There are several different types of overhead door closers available, including standard arm closers, top jamb closers, and parallel arm closers. Each type has its own unique features and advantages, making it important to choose the right type of closer for the specific application.

Pros and Cons of Overhead Door Closers

While there are several benefits to using overhead door closers, there are also some downsides.

Advantages:

• Overhead door closers provide an added layer of security. By automatically closing the door after someone enters or exits a room, you can ensure that no one can slip in unnoticed.
• They help to save energy by preventing drafts and keeping heated or cooled air inside the building. This can help to reduce heating and cooling costs and make your building more environmentally friendly.
• Overhead door closers can make it easier for people with disabilities or mobility issues to navigate your building. By closing the door automatically, you can ensure that everyone has equal access to your space
• They help to reduce noise levels.

Disadvantages:

• Overhead door closers require regular maintenance to ensure that they are functioning properly. This can include lubrication, adjustment, and replacement of parts as needed.
• They are expensive to install and maintain. If you have a large building or multiple entrances, the cost of installing and maintaining overhead door closers can add up quickly.
• Some people find overhead door closers to be inconvenient, especially if they are heavy or difficult to open. If your door closers are not properly adjusted, they can make it difficult for people to enter or exit your building.
• They can pose a safety hazard if not installed and maintained properly.

Examples of Overhead Door Closers

There are several different types of overhead door closers available, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Some examples of overhead door closers include:

Standard arm door closers – This type of overhead door closer is the most common and consists of a connecting arm that is attached to the frame and the door. Standard arm door closers are available in both surface-mounted and concealed options.

Parallel arm door closers – This type of overhead door closer is designed for use on narrow doors where a standard arm door closer may not fit. Parallel arm door closers use a connecting arm that runs parallel to the door when it is closed, then swings up and over the door when it is opened.

Top jamb door closers – Similar to standard arm closers, top jamb door closers also have arms that extend out perpendicularly from the door. However, the main difference is that the spring-loaded box is mounted on the face of the door frame. These types of closers are commonly used for glass or aluminum doors that have a narrow top rail.

At Qualified Hardware, you can find a wide selection of overhead door closers from the three top brands: Rixson, Dorma, and LCN. Each closer comes with unique specifications that make it suitable for specific application conditions.

Concealed Door Closers

Concealed door closers are a type of door closer that is hidden within the door or frame, making them a popular choice for those who desire a sleek and minimalist aesthetic.

Unlike surface-mounted door closers, concealed door closers do not protrude from the surface of the door, making them a subtle and inconspicuous option for those who wish to maintain the appearance of their doors.

Concealed door closers typically consist of a rectangular box-shaped housing that is installed within the door or frame. A connecting arm, which is often adjustable in length, is used to connect the door to the housing. As the door opens and closes, the housing’s internal mechanism, which often includes a hydraulic piston, regulates the speed at which the door moves.

Pros and Cons of Overhead Door Closers

Concealed door closers are a popular choice for many modern buildings due to their sleek appearance and ability to maintain the aesthetics of the door and surrounding architecture. However, like any product, they come with both advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a closer look at some of these:

Advantages:

• Concealed door closers help maintain the appearance of the door and surrounding architecture. Because the closer is hidden within the door or frame, it does not detract from the overall design.
• These closers provide better security than surface-mounted closers. This is because they are hidden from view and therefore less susceptible to tampering or vandalism.
• Concealed door closers are easier to clean than surface-mounted closers since they do not have exposed components that can accumulate dirt and grime.
• Are known for their quiet operation. This is because the closer is hidden from view and can operate without producing as much noise as a surface-mounted closer.

Disadvantages:

• Concealed door closers are typically more expensive than surface-mounted closers due to their specialized design and installation requirements.
• Require professional installation, which can be more complex than the installation of surface-mounted closers.
• Require more maintenance than surface-mounted closers since they are hidden from view and may not be noticed until they malfunction.
• Concealed door closers may not be suitable for all door types or applications, and there are fewer options available compared to surface-mounted closers.

Examples of Concealed Door Closers

If you’re in the market for a concealed door closer, Qualifiedhardware.com offers a wide selection of products from top brands such as LCN, Rixson, and Dormakaba. Here are some examples of concealed door closers products available on our website:

1. LCN 3130 Series: The LCN 3130 is a concealed door closer that is suitable for use in aluminum, wood, and hollow metal doors. It also has a built-in hydraulic backcheck function for added control.
2. LCN 2030 Series: The LCN 2030 is a concealed overhead door closer that is suitable for use in aluminum, wood, and hollow metal doors.
3. Rixson 91N-689: If you prefer a concealed closer aesthetic but require ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 reliability and durability, the Rixson 91 overhead concealed closer is the ideal solution.
4. Dorma ITS9613-689: The Dorma ITS9613 is a standard duty closer that is mounted into the door body while the track is mounted into the frame.

Floor Spring Door Closers

Floor spring door closers are a type of door closer that are installed into the floor rather than the door frame or surface of the door. This type of door closer is commonly used in commercial settings, particularly for glass doors, and offers a number of advantages over other types of door closers.

The basic mechanism of a floor spring door closer is a hydraulic piston located within a housing that is installed into the floor. The piston is connected to the door via a pivot arm, which allows the door to swing open and closed. The hydraulic piston provides resistance to the door’s movement, controlling the speed at which it closes.

Pros and Cons of Floor Spring Door Closers

Advantages

• Floor spring door closers are designed to be durable and long-lasting. They can withstand heavy use and provide reliable performance for many years.
• They can be installed in a way that doesn’t interfere with the design of the door or the room.
• Floor spring door closers can be adjusted to control the speed and force with which the door closes. This feature allows for greater control over the door and makes it possible to customize the closing mechanism to meet specific needs.
• Provide an added level of security to buildings. They prevent doors from slamming shut, which can damage the door or even cause injury. They also ensure that doors are closed securely, preventing unauthorized access.

Disadvantages

• Floor spring door closers can be more expensive than other types of door closers. This is due to their durable construction and advanced design.
• Installing floor spring door closers can be a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and tools.
• Floor spring door closers require regular maintenance to ensure that they function correctly. This can include lubrication, adjustment, and cleaning.
• These can be difficult for some people to operate, particularly those with disabilities or limited mobility.

Examples of Floor Spring Door Closers

Here are some examples of floor spring door closers currently available on the market.

1. Rixson 28 Series Floor Closer: This floor spring door closer is designed for use with heavy-duty doors and can support door weights of up to 600 pounds.
2. Dorma BTS 80 Series Floor Spring: This heavy-duty floor spring door closer is designed for use with glass doors and can support door weights of up to 660 pounds.
3. DORMAKABA TS 98 XEA Floor Spring: This floor spring door closer is designed for use with glass doors and can support door weights of up to 330 pounds.

How to Choose the Right Type of Door Closure

Choosing the right door closer is important in ensuring safety, security, and convenience. With so many different types and brands of door closers available in the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is the best fit for your specific needs. Here are some suggestions to consider when selecting a door closer for your application:

• Choose a door closer that is designed for the size and weight of your door. Overhead door closers typically have a weight capacity of up to 300 pounds, while concealed door closers are suitable for doors that weigh up to 250 pounds.
• The frequency of use and the level of traffic in the area should also be considered when selecting a door closer.
• The opening and closing force of a door closer should be appropriate for the user’s physical abilities.
• Door closers come in various styles and finishes. It is important to select a door closer that complements the design and decor of the space in which it will be installed.
• Quality and reliability are essential when it comes to door closers. It is recommended to choose a brand that is well known and has a good reputation in the industry, such as Norton, LCN, or Rixson.

Door Closers at Qualified Hardware

At Qualified Hardware, we take pride in offering an extensive selection of door closers from the top market leaders including Norton, Sargent, LCN, and Rixson. Our inventory includes a wide variety of options such as surface mounted closers, concealed overhead closers, and door closer parts and accessories – all of which meet the ANSI and ADA standards.

We provide free shipping, and a no-hassle returns policy for all of our products. Additionally, our knowledgeable associates are available via phone and email to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.