An Easy Guide to Using the Door Closer Sizing Chart for Commercial Steel Doors

There is technically a thorough process in procuring door closers for steel doors. While the right supplier is crucial, buyers must first consider the sizing of such doors to ensure the safety and functionality of commercial spaces.  Here lies the essence of a door closer size chart for a precise calculation. This guide helps you identify the key points a buyer should review when using such a size chart. 

Understanding the Variables: Door Weight vs Closing Force

The fundamental principle behind door control is the equilibrium between the door weight vs closing force. Commercial steel doors usually weigh 100-150 lb, meaning they’re denser than wood- or aluminum-made doors. A very low closing force causes the building to fail under the air pressure, making it unsecured. 

In contrast, an excessive closing force makes steel doors a physical barrier. This will be an issue when complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. It requires interior doors to be open with no more than 5lb of force. If you base it on the door closer size chart, the ‘Power Size’ (around sizes 1 to 6) must be used to achieve balance. 

Steps for Accurate Sizing of Door Closers

To use a sizing chart effectively, you must follow a structured technical process to obtain precise door closer measurements. Miscalculating even one aspect can lead to premature hardware failure or safety violations.

1. Measure the Door Leaf Width: This is the most critical data point. Wider doors require more leverage while exerting force against the closer. Charts typically categorize sizes based on widths (e.g., 36″, 42″, 48″). 

2. Determine Interior vs. Exterior Placement: Exterior steel doors face wind loads and “stack pressure” from HVAC systems, usually requiring at least one full power size higher than an identical interior door.

3. Identify the Mounting Application: Account for the mounting style. For instance, a closer mounted in a Parallel Arm configuration typically loses about 15% of its efficiency. You must often “size up” on the chart to compensate for this mechanical disadvantage.
4. Check the Door Weight: While width is the primary metric, a heavy-duty 14-gauge lead-lined steel door will require a Size 6 closer regardless of width due to the sheer mass involved in the door weight vs closing force calculation.

Aspects to Analyze Within the Chart

When reading a manufacturer’s door closer size chart, look beyond the basic numbers to identify these specific performance aspects:

• Spring Adjustment Revolutions: High-quality units allow you to adjust power from Size 1 to 6. The chart shows the number of 360-degree turns required for the spring nut to reach each size.

• Closing Cycle Timing: The right sizing for steel door closers must close from a 90-degree angle in about 5 to 7 seconds. The chart often correlates power sizes with these expected speeds. 

• Latch vs. Sweep Force: Ensure the chart specifies the force needed to overcome the latch bolt, as steel doors often have tighter weatherstripping that requires a more decisive “final kick” to seal.

Selecting Adjustable Hardware for Steel Doors

Because steel doors are subject to environmental changes, fixed-size closers are often a liability. Modern engineering solutions offer adjustable power ranges. This adjustability is vital for steel doors because it allows for seasonal tuning. In the winter, thicker air and heavier grease in the hinges may require a slight increase in power, which can be managed by referencing the manufacturer’s adjustment turns against the door closer size chart.