When it comes to maintaining and enhancing the functionality of commercial doors, businesses must often decide between repairing and replacing. But a third option, retrofitting, offers a solution that combines the benefits of both conventional options. Whether you’re updating the commercial doors in your warehouse, your store’s pedestrian doors, or the automatic doors in your building, here’s what you should know.

What Is Retrofitting?

Retrofitting refers to the process of upgrading or modifying an existing door system to enhance its performance, functionality, and overall efficiency. It involves making targeted improvements to specific components or systems without completely replacing the door itself. This approach allows businesses to leverage their existing infrastructure while benefiting from the advantages of modern technology and innovation.

Retrofitting Vs. Repairs

Repairs focus on specific issues with the door, but retrofitting takes a broader approach by addressing overall performance and functionality. Repairs usually involve fixing broken parts, replacing damaged sections, or adjusting mechanisms to restore the door to its original state. Retrofitting, on the other hand, goes beyond mere restoration and aims to improve the door's capabilities, energy efficiency, security, and safety features.

Why Not Just Replacement?

In contrast to replacement, retrofitting offers a cost-effective alternative that uses the existing structure. Retrofitting allows businesses to integrate new technologies and features into their current door system, thus avoiding the need for extensive demolition, installation and associated downtime. This approach provides a significant advantage in terms of time and money, and it can minimize disruptions to your business’s operations.

Retrofitting Considerations

When retrofitting commercial and pedestrian doors, several important considerations should be taken into account to ensure a successful and effective upgrade.

• Your goals. Clearly define your objectives for the retrofit and determine which improvements you want to prioritize. This could be enhanced energy efficiency, increased security, improved functionality, or updated compliance with industry standards.

• A professional assessment. Creative Door Services^TM can conduct a thorough evaluation of your current door system to identify potential issues, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. We’ll help you review factors such as the age of the system and advise you of any issues with the components. Plus, we can help you consider the compatibility of your existing infrastructure with modern technologies.

• Product selection. The team at Creative Door Services^TM is happy to help you explore suitable retrofitting options. We’ll help you evaluate the specific needs of your business and guide you in selecting products and solutions that align with your goals while providing you with the best value for your investment.

• Energy efficiency. Retrofitting can involve the installation of components such as insulated panels, weather seals, and energy-efficient operators to improve thermal insulation and reduce energy loss. The potential savings provided by energy-efficient upgrades can make them a great investment.

• Safety and security. If securing your property is a priority, retrofitting can include the integration of safety sensors, motion detectors, fire-rated components, and access control features to enhance door safety and security.

• Maintenance and durability. Opt for high-quality components and materials known for their longevity and requiring minimal maintenance. This will help reduce ongoing maintenance costs and ensure the doors operate reliably in the long term.

• Aesthetics. You may want to consider the appearance of and branding for your business. Think about the colours, finishes, and branding elements that will provide your business with a cohesive and professional appearance.

• Budget. Evaluate the initial investment cost, potential energy savings, maintenance costs, and the expected return on investment. Compare the cost of retrofitting to all benefits gained, such as improved functionality, energy efficiency, and enhanced security, to determine the cost-effectiveness of the project.

• Compliance with regulations. Creative Door Services^TM will ensure your retrofit complies with local building codes, safety regulations, and industry standards. Our expertise includes familiarity with all requirements pertaining to fire safety, accessibility, and emergency egress.

By considering these factors, business owners can make informed decisions and select the most appropriate retrofitting solutions for their needs.

Retrofitting Commercial Doors in Western Canada

In Western Canada, Creative Door Services^TM is available to help you with your commercial door retrofit. For more than 55 years, we’ve proudly offered businesses innovative products, solutions, and services. We can help you optimize your door system, enhance security, and elevate the overall functionality of your facility.

Contact us today at one of our eight locations. We’re happy to serve you from Kelowna, British Columbia; Vancouver, British Columbia; Calgary, Alberta; Edmonton, Alberta; Fort McMurray, Alberta; Regina, Saskatchewan; Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; or Winnipeg, Manitoba.