Automatic Door Considerations

We’ve come to expect automatic doors in many types of facilities. Grocery stores, hotels, hospitals, airports and convenience stores all have automatic doors. However, automatic doors can add convenience, cost savings and an enhanced sense of customer service in many other types of buildings as well. Architects may want to consider automatic doors for building designs where they may not traditionally think of them. The American Association of Automatic Door Manufacturers has identified 6 situations where architects may want to consider automatic doors.

For older demographics
When buildings are in neighbourhoods with an older demographic, such as near a retirement community, automatic doors can provide a competitive advantage. Retail stores, movie theatres and restaurants that have automatic doors would attract customers who use assistive devices that make it easy for them to enter and exit the building.

For high traffic venues
Entertainment venues, educational facilities and public transportation terminals that have high traffic at peak times can benefit greatly from automatic doors. It can make it easier for these institutions to manage the flow of people and provide them with an easy to use entry system.

When space is limited
Sliding automatic doors do not need to account for the space needed for the swing of traditional doors. They are a great way to maximize space in compact areas, while also adding convenience for pedestrians.

For lower cost AODA compliance
It is often more effective and cost-efficient to install automatic doors than it is to implement other architectural AODA requirements. Low-energy swinging doors offer a cost-effective solution to provide universal accessibility while also allowing manual operation of the door.

To save energy
Automatic doors can reduce wasted energy and may significantly reduce heating and cooling costs. Automatic doors only open when triggered. This eliminates the possibility of the door being left open, which would let outside air in, keeping the inside cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

For premium convenience
Studies show businesses with automatic doors are perceived by consumers to have a higher level of service than those that do not. An automatic door can be a great way to show that your organization is customer-focused.