Hardware Issues: The Anatomy Of The Door

Hardware problems or mechanical issues are another type of door finding that can occur unexpectedly. It's not a matter of if they will happen, but when.

Below is a list of standard parts of a school exterior door, or the anatomy of the door, that every inspector should be aware of. This includes common problems and general solutions.

Understanding your exterior doors enables better and more accurate documentation and faster and smoother response times.

Door/Gate

The leaf or commonly known as the “door” is the barrier that controls access to and from a space. In schools, doors are crucial for access control, safety, and privacy.

Common Problems:

Exterior doors used by most schools are typically made with durable materials, often using heavy-duty 18-gauge steel. While they are generally reliable, you may notice warping, shape distortion, or separation at the corners or seams. (Issues typically found arise with the surrounding components or locking mechanisms)

General Solutions:

Because most doors are made of heavy-duty materials and can be tricky to correct, it is recommended to have a professional repair or fix any damage discovered. In some cases, a complete replacement might be required.

Latch System

The latch is a mechanical device that keeps a door closed by connecting it to a door frame recess. When a door is closed, the latch automatically springs into a strike plate, a piece of metal mounted to the door frame. The latch remains in place until the door is opened by pressing an exit device or turning a knob or lever.

Common Problems:

• Misalignment: Misalignment is a common problem that can result from various forces. There is usually only a tiny margin of error between the latch and strike plate aligning correctly and creating a secure connection.
• Loose Components: Over time, the screws or fasteners that hold the latch in place may loosen, causing the lock to malfunction.
• Sticking Latch: Over time, latches can become dirty from buildup, corrosion, or rust, leading to intermittent or permanent sticking can cause the latch to freeze up.
• Broken Damaged Latch: If the latch does not retract or release even when force is applied, it is most likely damaged and needs to be repaired or replaced. This generally only occurs when it suffers a significant impact.
• Faulty Strike Plate: If the strike plate is misaligned, it can cause the lock to catch or rub against the strike, preventing a secure connection. This document will discuss the issues and solutions related to the strike plate.

General Solutions:

The latch can be an easy fix or may need to be replaced entirely, depending on the severity of the issue. In most cases, applying lubricant or slightly adjusting can resolve the problem. However, before making any decisions, we recommend consulting with the maintenance team or a professional first.

Lock System

A locking system is a mechanical device, usually involving a key, designed to control access from one area to another or prevent a door from being opened. It is often combined with an electromechanical, electronic, electromagnetic, or other device.

Common Problems:

• Key Issues: A key may break off in the keyhole, be difficult to insert, or not turn in the lock.
• Sticking: Over time, locks can become dirty from buildup, corrosion, or rust, leading to intermittent or permanent sticking effects that cause the lock to freeze up, making it difficult to turn.
• Network Security Issues: Access control systems may experience malfunctions or require updates, leading to issues such as key cards not working or failing to lock at scheduled times.
• Battery Health: Some keyless entry systems rely on batteries, which need to be regularly checked and replaced.

General Solutions:

Locks, like latches, can be an easy fix or may need to be replaced entirely, depending on the severity of the issue. Applying the proper lubricant or working the lock to loosen it can sometimes resolve the problem. However, before making any decisions, we recommend consulting with the maintenance team or a professional first.

Exit Device (Panic Bar)

An exit device, also known as a panic bar, crash bar, or panic device, is a type of door hardware that allows people to quickly exit a building in an emergency. When pressed, it disengages the latch, allowing the door to open.

Common Problems:

• Misalignment: The panic bar or the internal components may have become loose or unlevel, causing it to fail. Sticking: Panic bars can often experience thousands of presses and may become worn from friction or start to stick due to foreign objects, leading to intermittent or permanent sticking effects that cause the press bar or latch to seize up, putting it in a permanently open state.
• Rod Damage: Some panic bars have vertical rods that are completely exposed. These rods can get damaged and create a variety of issues. Other panic bars have internal rods that can also become damaged from normal wear and tear and may need adjustments.

General Solutions:

Panic bars usually require a professional to adjust or replace components. We recommend consulting with the maintenance team or a professional before making any repair decisions.

Closer

The closer is a mechanical device installed at the top of a door that controls and assists in closing after being opened. Its main functions are to ensure the door closes smoothly and securely and prevent slamming, which can cause wear or damage. Door closers can be hydraulic, spring-loaded, or pneumatic, and are commonly used in commercial buildings and areas where controlled access is a concern.

Common Problems:

• Leaking Hydraulic Fluid: This can reduce the door closer's ability to control the door's speed and movement, leading to slamming or finding to close fully.
• Improper Adjustment: If the tension or speed is not set correctly, the door may close too quickly, too slowly, or not latch properly.
• Misalignment: Over time, door frames can shift or door closers can become loose, causing the door to close unevenly or not seal properly.
• Broken or Worn-out Components: Springs, seals, or valves inside the closer can wear out, leading to malfunction or a complete finding.
• Obstruction or Dirt Buildup: Dirt, debris, or objects obstructing the door closer mechanism can affect its operation and create inconsistent door movement.

General Solutions:

Regular maintenance can resolve common door closer issues, such as loose parts, speed adjustments, lubrication, and cleaning. Persistent problems like fluid leaks may require replacement. However, before making any decisions, we recommend consulting with the maintenance team or a professional first.

Strike

A door strike is the metal plate or assembly installed on the door frame that works in conjunction with the latch or bolt of a lock. When the door is closed and locked, the latch or bolt extends into the strike plate, securing the door in place. There are two primary types of door strikes:

1. Standard Strike: A basic strike plate used with mechanical locks, featuring a simple opening for the latch or bolt to engage when the door closes.
2. Electric Strike: An advanced strike that can be integrated with electronic access control systems. Electric strikes allow the door to be unlocked remotely or via an electronic device, such as a key card or keypad, without physically turning the lock.

Common Problems:

• Misalignment: Frequent use or building settling can cause the strike and latch to misalign, preventing the door from latching or locking properly.
• Wear and Tear: High-traffic doors experience constant use, leading to worn-out or damaged strike plates that reduce security and functionality.
• Electric Strike Malfunctions: Power findings, wiring issues, or mechanical defects in electric strikes can cause them to fail, resulting in access control issues or the door not locking/unlocking properly.
• Improper Installation: Poor installation can lead to performance problems, such as misalignment or the latch not seating correctly, affecting the overall security of the door.
• Tampering or Forced Entry: Strike plates can be damaged by attempts to pry open or force the door, compromising security.

General Solutions:

Common door strike problems include regular maintenance, ensuring proper alignment, replacing worn or damaged strike plates, and checking the wiring or power supply for electric strikes. However, before making any decisions, we recommend consulting with the maintenance team or a professional first.

Mullion

A mullion is a vertical element that separates different sections of a door frame, such as a door and a sidelite, or two door leaves. Mullions can be fixed or removable. Fixed mullions allow them to function as a single door, while a removable mullion can be taken out to allow the full width of the opening to be used.

Common Problems:

• Misalignment: Over time, mullions can shift due to building settling or frequent use, leading to misalignment with the doors and affecting security or door operation.
• Improper Installation: Mullions can accidentally be installed backward or upside down, causing the latch and strikes not to match and preventing the door from locking securely.
• Wear and Damage: Constant use or accidental impacts (e.g., from carts or equipment) can cause damage, bending, or warping.
• Obstruction: Mullions can sometimes obstruct the proper closing or locking of doors if they become loose or misaligned.

General Solutions:

Regularly inspect mullions for alignment and damage, tighten or replace any loose components, and ensure they are securely fastened. However, before making any decisions, we recommend consulting with the maintenance team or a professional first.

Frame

A door frame is the structure that surrounds and supports the door, typically consisting of the head (top), jambs (sides), and sill (bottom). It provides the foundation for the door and its locking mechanisms.

Common Problems:

• Shifting or Warping: Frames can shift or warp due to building movement, weather conditions, or heavy use, leading to alignment issues with the door and locking mechanisms.
• Cracking or Splitting: Constant use, or environmental exposure can cause cracking or splitting, compromising door security.
• Corrosion: Metal frames can rust or corrode over time, especially in areas with high humidity or exposure to the elements, weakening the structure.

General Solutions:

Regularly inspect frames for signs of warping, cracks, or corrosion. Adjust or reinforce frames as needed to maintain proper alignment. However, before making any decisions, we recommend consulting with the maintenance team or a professional first.

Threshold

A threshold is the bottom part of the door frame that lies beneath the door, providing a seal between the door and the floor. In commercial settings, thresholds help with weatherproofing, pest control, and ensuring a secure door closure.

Common Problems:

• Wear and Tear: High foot traffic or the movement of heavy equipment across thresholds can cause a threshold to lift or warp, creating a friction point that interferes with the door's operation, leading to issues with opening, closing, or latching.

General Solutions:

Check thresholds regularly for wear, gaps, or improper height and replace them as needed to ensure a proper seal and smooth operation.