When investing in doors for your building, longevity is a key factor to consider. As a building owner or developer, you want to ensure that your chosen components will stand the test of time, providing reliable performance and minimising the need for frequent replacements.
We delve into the life expectancy of steel doors and explore the factors that contribute to their impressive durability.
The primary reason for the longevity of steel doors lies in the inherent properties of the material itself. Steel is renowned for its strength and resistance to wear and tear. Unlike wood, which can warp, crack, or rot over time, or fibreglass, which can become brittle, steel maintains its structural integrity even under harsh conditions.
Most steel doors are constructed from galvanised steel, which is steel that has been coated with a layer of zinc. This process provides an extra level of protection against corrosion and rust, further enhancing the door’s durability. The thickness of the steel also plays a role, with most doors using 24-gauge steel for an optimal balance of strength and weight.
While steel doors are inherently durable, several factors can influence their life expectancy:
The environment in which the door is installed can have a significant impact on its longevity. Doors exposed to harsh weather conditions, such as high humidity, salt air, or frequent temperature fluctuations, may experience faster wear and tear than those in more moderate climates.
The frequency and type of usage also play a role. Doors in high-traffic areas, such as main entrances or busy commercial spaces, will naturally experience more wear and tear than those in less frequented areas.
Regular maintenance is key to maximising the life of a steel door. This includes cleaning, lubricating moving parts, and promptly addressing any signs of damage or corrosion. Neglecting maintenance can lead to premature ageing and reduced life expectancy.
Proper installation is critical for ensuring the long-term performance of a steel door. Doors that are improperly hung or aligned can experience uneven wear, leading to faster deterioration. It’s important to have doors installed by experienced professionals to ensure optimal longevity.
Given the durability of steel and the factors that influence life expectancy, it’s not uncommon for steel doors to last anywhere from 30 to 100 years. This wide range accounts for the variability in environment, usage, maintenance, and installation.
On the lower end, a steel door in a harsh environment with high usage and minimal maintenance might last around 30 years before requiring replacement. However, with proper care and in more favourable conditions, it’s not uncommon for steel doors to last 50 years or more.
In some cases, well-maintained steel doors in low-stress environments have been known to last up to 100 years. While this is more the exception than the rule, it highlights the potential longevity of this material.
When compared to other common door materials, steel often comes out ahead in terms of life expectancy:
Wooden doors, while attractive, are susceptible to warping, cracking, and rot, especially if exposed to moisture. They typically require more frequent replacement, often within 20 to 30 years.
Fibreglass doors, while more durable than wood, can become brittle over time and are more prone to cracking or breaking under impact. They often have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years.
In contrast, steel doors offer a combination of strength, resistance to the elements, and low maintenance requirements that contribute to their impressive longevity.
When selecting doors for your building, it’s important to consider not just the initial cost, but the long-term value. Steel doors, with their impressive life expectancy, offer a compelling return on investment. By choosing quality steel doors and ensuring they are properly installed and maintained, you can enjoy the benefits of secure, efficient, and attractive entryways for decades to come.
Our premium steel security door ranges, such as the M2M+ Express, Capital45, and M2M+ offer custom-engineered products to meet your specific needs. Whether you require exceptional acoustic performance to create a soundproof environment or certified fire doors for enhanced safety, we can deliver a solution that fits your exact requirements.
With Bradbury Group as your steel door manufacturer, you can be sure that you’ll get a product that’s 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 business or infrastructure. Contact Bradbury Group today to have complete confidence in your building’s safety and integrity with our steel doors.
