Overview
Restaurant and retail swinging doors are designed for high-traffic interior areas like kitchens, stockrooms, and service corridors. These double-swing doors help manage foot and cart movement, reduce noise, and maintain separation between customer-facing and back-of-house spaces. This FAQ answers common questions about door types, sizes, features, and installation to help you choose the right solution for your commercial environment.
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General Use & Applications
What are restaurant and retail swinging doors used for?
Restaurant and retail swinging doors are used to separate back-of-house areas like kitchens and stockrooms from public zones. They help manage cart and foot traffic, reduce noise, and support hygienic workflows in high-use commercial environments.
Where are these swinging doors typically installed?
These double-swing doors are usually installed between kitchens and dining areas, food prep spaces, stockrooms, or service corridors—anywhere interior traffic needs to be controlled without disrupting workflow.
Can these doors be used between a dining area and the kitchen?
Yes. These doors are ideal for kitchen-to-dining transitions, offering privacy, noise reduction, and easy staff access without requiring hands to open or close them.
Are they suitable for food prep zones and storage rooms?
Yes. Their durable construction and cleanable surfaces make them a great fit for food prep zones, dry storage rooms, and supply areas that need frequent access and sanitary separation.
Do these doors support frequent cart and foot traffic?
Yes. These doors are built for constant use in high-traffic areas. They handle repeated bumps from trays and carts while swinging smoothly for foot traffic.
Can swinging doors help reduce kitchen noise in dining areas?
Yes. While not soundproof, they reduce noise transfer by acting as a barrier between noisy kitchens and quieter dining spaces.
Are these doors designed for back-of-house use only?
Yes. They are intended for internal zones like kitchens, service corridors, and stockrooms—not for exterior entry points or outdoor exposure.
Can I use swinging doors in my retail stockroom?
Yes. These doors work well in stockrooms by allowing employees to move inventory quickly while maintaining separation from customer areas.
Are these doors a good fit for restaurant service corridors?
Yes. Their easy-swing design and optional bumpers make them perfect for restaurant service corridors with frequent tray and cart traffic.
Do they work well in fast-paced food service environments?
Yes. These doors are designed for speed and durability, handling the demands of fast-service restaurants and kitchens without slowing down staff.
Can these doors be used in grocery stores or food courts?
Yes. They’re ideal for food courts and grocery backrooms, offering a clean, efficient barrier between prep areas and public zones.
Are swinging doors okay for medical or prep-room use?
Yes. They’re suitable for many medical or prep areas thanks to their hygienic finishes, though site-specific compliance should always be checked.
Do these doors help with visual separation in open spaces?
Yes. These doors block visibility into kitchens or stockrooms, creating a more polished look for customer-facing spaces.
Are these doors appropriate for hospitality settings like hotel kitchens?
Yes. Their professional finish and easy operation make them a great match for hotel kitchens, service stations, and banquet prep areas.
Can these doors be used in cafés and quick-service counters?
Yes. Smaller double-swing models are perfect for fast-moving café setups, enabling smooth back-and-forth access behind the counter.
Are swinging doors used in mall backrooms or service halls?
Yes. Their rugged build and compact footprint make them suitable for malls, department stores, and service corridors.
Can these doors help contain smells from the kitchen?
Yes. When equipped with perimeter seals, they help contain odors and maintain cleaner air in front-of-house zones.
Do swinging doors provide any privacy for staff-only areas?
Yes. These doors create a clear boundary between staff and customer zones, with window options for visibility where needed.
Are they a good option for high-turnover dining environments?
Yes. Their self-closing swing action and tough construction make them ideal for restaurants with constant movement and minimal downtime.
Can I use these in convenience stores or mini-marts?
Yes. These doors offer a compact, low-maintenance way to separate prep or stock areas from the customer space in small retail setups.
Are restaurant swinging doors weather-rated for outdoor zones?
No. These doors are for interior use only and are not rated for exterior weather exposure or outdoor access points.
Will swinging doors work with food delivery or pick-up lanes?
Yes. They’re helpful in interior staging zones for food delivery or pick-up, but not for exterior drive-thru use.
Can these doors be used in dishwashing or cleaning areas?
Yes. ABS and stainless models resist moisture and are easy to sanitize, making them well suited for wet or washdown zones.
Are swinging doors appropriate for employee-only access points?
Yes. These doors help designate staff-only spaces and allow efficient entry and exit without keys or handles.
Do these doors help create a more professional environment for guests?
Yes. They enhance the front-of-house experience by keeping back-of-house areas out of sight while maintaining efficient operations.
Features & Material Options
What material options are available for restaurant and retail swinging doors?
You can choose sheet-metal models in anodized aluminum or brushed stainless, as well as wood-core doors wrapped in aluminum/laminate and ABS-core options like PE‑720 for a sturdy, moisture-resistant finish.
What’s the difference between a sheet door and a wood-core door?
A sheet door is lightweight and economical, made from a single metal panel. A wood-core door is sturdier—built around a ¾″ solid core—better handling pressure and allowing seals or locks.
How is the PE‑610 different from the PE‑620 model?
The PE‑610ALC is a restaurant-grade, ¾″ wood-core door in brushed aluminum, up to 88″×96″. The PE‑620ALC is a retail-style version sized up to 96″×96″ with similar construction but larger dimensions.
Can I request a door with a stainless‑steel finish?
Yes—you can choose full stainless models like PE‑510SS (sheet) or PE‑630SS (wood-core wrap), ideal for hygienic back-of-house areas.
Do you offer high‑pressure laminate (HPL) finishes?
Yes, HPL finishes are available on models like PE‑510HPL and PE‑625HPL, offering a decorative, easy-clean surface in various colors and woodgrain patterns.
Can I choose between aluminum and stainless‑steel skins?
Absolutely – sheet-style doors offer satin anodized aluminum or brushed stainless options, while wood-core and ABS wraps also support either metal finish choice.
What core materials are used in these doors?
Core options include solid ¾″ wood (PE‑610/620), ⅝″ ABS honeycomb (PE‑720), or durable polyethylene ABS for industrial models—each offering different strength and moisture resistance.
Are wood‑core doors stronger than aluminum sheet models?
Yes. Wood-core doors offer better resistance to air pressure and impacts and support added features like seals and locks that sheet doors can’t accommodate.
Which door model is best for heavy‑duty commercial use?
Wood-core models like PE‑610ALC/PE‑620ALC or ABS-core PE‑720 are ideal. They’re built with gravity hinges and impact plates to withstand heavy foot and cart traffic.
Do the doors come with bumpers or kick plates?
Yes. Many models include 12–48″ stainless or ABS kick plates and tear-drop bumpers as optional extras to protect the panels from carts or forks.
Can I add tear-drop bumpers to my door?
Yes—documented on PE‑620ALC doors. Tear-drop bumpers (18″–42″) are a handy extra to protect door edges in back-of-house use.
What are vision panels, and are they included?
Vision panels are acrylic windows (standard 9″×14″ with black gasket). They’re included on most models and help staff see traffic before opening. Custom shapes and larger sizes available.
Are window shapes customizable?
Yes—besides standard rectangles, you can request larger rectangles (up to 9″×30″), squares (18″×18″), or round vision panels in many models.
Can I get a door without any windows at all?
Yes—windows are optional on most doors. You can specify a solid panel with no vision panel during customization.
Are full‑perimeter seals available for better air control?
Yes—wood-core and ABS-core models offer optional full-perimeter gasketing to reduce odor, dust, and temperature transfer between zones.
Do you offer sound‑reducing options?
While not fully acoustic, sealed doors (wood-core and ABS) help dampen noise between noisy and quiet zones by controlling airflow and closing gaps.
Can these doors be made moisture‑resistant?
Yes. ABS-core models and stainless laminate or sheet doors resist moisture and cleaning fluids—ideal for dishwashing or prep areas.
Are insulated core doors available for temperature‑sensitive areas?
While this line doesn’t include insulated cores, it integrates with insulated models from the Insulated Swinging Doors range. Some ABS doors also offer moderate thermal control.
Do your swinging doors come pre‑drilled for hinges?
Yes—they’re prepped for heavy-duty gravity hinges on both frame and panel sides, making installation fast and accurate.
Are there any ADA‑compliant options available?
While none are explicitly labeled ADA, the lightweight gravity-hinged design supports easy push-through operation. Specific width requirements should be verified per code.
What color options are available for the doors?
Sheet and wood-core doors are available in brushed metal finishes; ABS-core models can be powder-coated. Custom HPL laminate adds a variety of woodgrain or solid color options.
Can I match the door’s finish to my existing decor?
Yes—HPL laminates offer decorative finishes, and stainless or powder-coated options let you coordinate with existing restaurant or retail interiors.
Are hardware finishes like handles and hinges customizable?
Gravity hinges are standard. Frames can be ordered in paintable steel or brushed stainless to match hardware finishes. Handles or locking hardware must be added separately.
What types of frames are compatible with these doors?
Compatible frames include three-piece 16‑gauge steel or tubular stainless frames—pre-drilled and available in paintable or brushed stainless finishes.
Which model is best if I want a premium look for a front-facing service area?
Models like the PE‑630SS or PE‑625HPL offer premium brushed stainless or decorative HPL finishes, providing a polished, upscale look suitable for front-of-house service counters.
Installation & Maintenance
How hard is it to install restaurant or retail swinging doors?
Installation is straightforward. Most doors arrive pre-drilled and prepped for gravity hinges, so with the right tools, a basic install takes under an hour.
Can one person install these doors alone?
Yes—with lighter models like sheet metal doors, solo installation is doable. Heavier wood-core or ABS-core models may require a second set of hands for alignment.
Do the doors come pre-drilled for hinges?
Yes. The doors and frames come pre-drilled for heavy-duty gravity hinges, ensuring accurate alignment and quicker install times.
Are your doors compatible with existing door frames?
Usually. If your current opening matches standard measurements and has a flat mounting surface, the doors can be mounted using supplied hardware or compatible frame kits.
What type of frame do I need for these doors?
Most models install into standard 3-piece steel or stainless tubular frames. Pre-fabricated frame kits are also available for clean installations.
Can I install these doors on a drywall opening?
Yes—with proper backing. For drywall installs, use a reinforced wood or metal subframe to anchor the hinges securely.
Do you offer frame kits along with the doors?
Yes. Pre-welded 16-gauge steel or stainless steel frames are available and recommended for clean installs in new or renovated spaces.
Are special tools required for installation?
No special tools are required. A drill, level, tape measure, and basic fasteners are typically all you need for most installations.
How do I align swinging doors correctly?
Mark hinge placement with a level, mount the hinges on the frame, and then align the door leafs with hinge pins. Most models are self-centering with built-in return features.
Can I install the doors with gravity hinges on both sides?
Yes. Most models are bi-directional and mount using two gravity hinges—one top and one bottom—for smooth swing and automatic return.
Are instructions included with the door delivery?
Yes. Every order includes printed install guides and a link to online PDFs or video tutorials for step-by-step help.
Is professional installation required?
Not necessarily. Many customers choose DIY installation, but for wood-core or double doors, hiring a professional ensures optimal fit and alignment.
How do I clean swinging doors in food service environments?
Use mild soap or a degreaser with a soft cloth. Stainless and laminate finishes are easy to wipe down, and ABS surfaces resist moisture and grime.
Are the vision panels easy to clean?
Yes. Vision panels are made from scratch-resistant acrylic or polycarbonate and can be wiped down with glass-safe cleaners.
How do I clean kick plates and bumpers?
Wipe down with a cloth and mild cleaner. Stainless kick plates are rust-resistant, and ABS bumpers are chemical-safe and easy to scrub.
Are maintenance parts like hinges or bumpers replaceable?
Yes. Replacement hinges, bumpers, and vision panels are available for all standard models. Most are easy to swap using basic tools.
How often should I check the hinges or hardware?
Check every 3–6 months, especially in high-traffic areas. Look for loose fasteners or signs of fatigue, and retighten or replace as needed.
Can I repaint or refinish the doors over time?
Powder-coated or HPL laminate finishes aren't designed for refinishing. However, some sheet metal models can be painted with appropriate metal primers.
Do door seals wear out or need replacement?
Yes, seals may degrade over time, especially in high-moisture or temperature-variable zones. Replacements are available and easy to reapply.
Are repairs covered under any warranty?
Product warranties typically cover manufacturing defects, not wear-and-tear. Parts like bumpers or vision panels may be replaced under warranty if deemed defective.
Do you offer maintenance or repair kits?
Yes. Optional repair kits include bumpers, hinges, hardware, and replacement gaskets tailored to each door model.
What’s the typical lifespan of a retail swinging door?
With proper use and occasional maintenance, most doors last 5–10 years—even in high-traffic restaurant or retail settings.
Are the doors weather-resistant long-term?
Models with stainless, ABS, or powder-coated surfaces offer long-lasting protection against moisture, cleaning agents, and temperature fluctuations.
Can I adjust the door swing resistance or tension?
Yes. Some gravity hinge styles include adjustable tension settings to control return speed or firmness.
Do I need to lubricate the hinges?
Not regularly. Gravity hinges are mostly self-lubricating but may benefit from occasional light oiling if exposed to dust or grit.
Sizing, Specs & Ordering Info
What standard sizes are available for retail swinging doors?
Standard sizes range from 24″×50″ to 48″×96″ for single panels. Double-door assemblies can reach up to 96″×96″, with options for height up to 108″ depending on model.
Can I request a custom-sized swinging door?
Yes—as stated on the pillar page, all models are fully customizable in width, height, and vision-panel placement to fit unique openings.
How do I accurately measure my doorway opening for these doors?
Measure the rough opening width and height, ensuring it’s plumb and level. For frames, measure from jamb-to-jamb and include ½″ clearance on each side.
What’s the maximum size you can make a door?
Single panels can be ordered up to 48″ wide and 108″ tall. Larger openings use double-door configurations, each panel sized to your specifications.
Are there minimum size requirements for installation?
Minimum single-panel width is around 24″, though ABS-sheet models sometimes start at 18″. Consult specs per model to confirm.
Can I order double doors for extra-wide openings?
Yes—double-door setups are available, commonly used for openings up to 96″, with overlapping edges for light and odor containment.
What is the lead time for standard vs. custom doors?
Standard sizes ship in 5–7 business days, while custom sizes take 7–10 days, depending on hardware, finishes, and customization.
Do you provide fast-turnaround options for urgent installations?
Yes—fast order processing is offered for standard sizes, with 5–7 day dispatch after payment confirmation.
How long does it take to receive a quote?
Quotes are typically sent within 24 hours of request, with same-day pricing available for standard models.
Can I get drawings or CAD specs before ordering?
Absolutely—you can request CAD files and spec sheets for all models to assist architects or contractors.
Do you offer a spec sheet or brochure for each model?
Yes—all models come with downloadable spec sheets, including detailed dimensions, materials, hardware, and options.
Are technical data sheets available for architects or contractors?
Yes—full technical datasheets are available, covering R‑values, material finishes, weight, and certifications.
Are these doors fire-rated for code compliance?
No—these models are not fire-rated. However, fire-rated swinging doors are available in our specialty fire-door line.
What certifications or testing do these doors meet?
Many models are USDA/NSF rated for food service. They comply with ADA clearance specs and commercial-grade impact standards.
Can I order doors with exact hinge placement specs?
Yes—you specify top and bottom hinge heights. Our CAD guides show predefined hinge locations adjustable to suit your job site.
Do I need to supply my wall thickness when ordering?
Yes—it helps us recommend the right frame depth. Typical frame depths range from 4½″ to 6½″, depending on wall type.
Are custom frame sizes available for irregular openings?
Yes—non-standard frame sizes are available, including block frame kits and welded box frames for precise fit.
Do I have to choose a specific handing (left/right)?
No—doors are double-acting and swing both ways. Handing applies only to frame prep; our team preps the frame accordingly.
Can I get matching door pairs for back and front zones?
Yes—you can order identical sets with the same finish or mix finishes (e.g., stainless front, aluminum back) for seamless integration.
Are there bulk order discounts or commercial pricing tiers?
Yes—volume pricing tiers are available for orders of 10+ doors, and incentives for repeat customers.
How are the doors shipped—flat or crated?
Standard orders ship crate-packed on pallets. Larger double-door orders may ship in two crates for safer handling.
Can I specify a preferred freight carrier for delivery?
Yes—you can choose your preferred freight carrier or use ours. International shipping is supported with customs-ready documentation.
Is there a way to track my order once it’s shipped?
Yes—tracking details are emailed once your order dispatches, including ETA and contact info for the carrier.
Can I cancel or revise my order after it’s submitted?
Orders can be revised within 24 hours. After that, they enter production and are non-cancellable due to customization.
Do you offer assistance with selecting the right model for my needs?
Yes—our team provides pre-sales support to help match model specs to your application, including site photos and requirement review.