The choice of door frames is just as important as the choice of doors themselves. The frame not only provides structural support but also contributes to the overall security, fire resistance, and aesthetic appeal of the building.
Among the various options available, steel door frames have emerged as a popular choice due to their robustness, versatility, and long-term reliability. But what exactly are these frames made of?
At the heart of every steel door frame is, unsurprisingly, steel. However, not all steel is created equal. The most commonly used type of steel in door frame construction is galvannealed steel. This is a specific type of steel that undergoes a process called galvannealing, which involves coating the steel with a thin layer of zinc-iron alloy.
The galvannealing process offers several advantages over traditional galvanising. It results in a smoother, more uniform surface that provides better paint adhesion. This is particularly important for door frames, as a well-adhered paint or powder coating is crucial for long-term durability and corrosion resistance.
In addition to the type of steel, the gauge of the steel also plays a significant role in the strength and durability of the door frame. The gauge refers to the thickness of the steel, with a lower gauge number indicating a thicker, stronger steel.
For commercial and industrial applications, 16-gauge steel is a common choice. This provides a robust frame that can withstand heavy use and impact. In areas with more extreme security requirements, such as high-risk facilities or secure rooms, 14-gauge or even 12-gauge steel may be used for added strength.
While galvannealed steel provides a good base level of corrosion resistance, additional coatings can be applied to further enhance the durability of the door frame. These coatings can include:
Powder coating involves applying a dry powder to the surface of the frame and then curing it under heat to create a hard, durable finish. This not only provides an additional layer of protection against corrosion but also allows for a wide range of colour options to match the building’s aesthetic.
For environments with specific requirements, such as high humidity or chemical exposure, specialised coatings can be applied. These can include epoxy coatings, which provide excellent resistance to chemicals and abrasion, or polyurethane coatings, which offer superior UV and weather resistance.
In addition to the steel itself, many door frames also incorporate reinforcement elements to provide additional strength and rigidity. These can include:
The area around the hinges is subject to significant stress every time the door is opened and closed. Hinge reinforcements, typically made of thicker steel, are welded into the frame to provide extra support and prevent sagging over time.
Similarly, the area around the strike plate, where the latch engages with the frame, is another high-stress point. Strike reinforcements provide additional strength to prevent the frame from deforming under repeated use or attempted forced entry.
In some cases, particularly with larger or heavier doors, corner reinforcements may be added. These are triangular pieces of steel welded into the corners of the frame to provide additional rigidity and prevent the frame from twisting out of square.
When choosing steel door frames for your building, it’s important to consider the specific requirements of your application. Factors such as your security needs and the environmental conditions should all influence the choice of material, gauge, and coatings.
By understanding the components that go into a steel door frame, you can make an informed decision that will provide your building with reliable, long-lasting performance.
At Bradbury Group, we understand that every building has unique security challenges. That’s why our security door ranges, such as our the M2M+ Express, Capital45, and M2M+ steel doors, are designed to meet these challenges head-on.
Investing in Bradbury Group’s steel security doors and frames is a decision that delivers long-term value. The enhanced security, durability, and resistance to wear and tear make our products a superior choice compared to traditional alternatives.
With the added benefits of fire resistance, acoustic control, and low maintenance requirements, our doors and frames provide a comprehensive solution for building owners and developers.
When you choose Bradbury Group as your steel door manufacturer, you can be assured that you will receive a product that is built to last, designed to protect, and crafted with meticulous attention to detail. You can trust us to provide the most comprehensive physical security solution for your company or infrastructure.
Contact Bradbury Group today to discover how we can provide you with the perfect balance of security, performance, and style for your building with our steel doors.
