Maximizing the Lifespan & Performance of Your Commercial Glass Door

Photo of a commercial glass door done by Wolverine Glass.

Is the front door of your business glass?

Are you taking the right steps to protect it from wear and tear?

Your storefront entrance does more than just open and close—it’s the face of your business! With constant use and exposure to Michigan’s ever-changing weather, commercial glass and aluminum doors require maintenance to stay in top condition.

Below are key maintenance tips to help extend the life of your commercial doors and avoid unnecessary downtime or expense.

1. Prevent Salt and Winter Damage

Michigan winters can be especially tough on commercial doors. While salt is necessary for keeping walkways safe, it can be highly corrosive to aluminum frames, steel components, and door hardware.

Over time, salt buildup can lead to:

Corrosion of metal frames and pivot hinges
Premature wear of moving parts
Structural weakening of the door system

Best practices:

Regularly sweep and remove excess salt from entryways
Mop or rinse entry areas to prevent salt accumulation
Perform a thorough cleaning at the end of winter to remove residue

A little extra attention during winter months can significantly reduce long-term damage.

2. Inspect and Adjust Door Closers

Door closers are one of the hardest-working components of any commercial entry system. When properly adjusted, they ensure smooth, controlled closing and help protect both the door and surrounding glass.

What to look for:

Doors should close fully and securely in about 5–7 seconds
Slamming or rapid closing can stress glass and hardware
Oil leakage is a clear sign the closer needs replacement

Maintenance tips:

Periodically test door speed and latch function
Adjust settings as needed for seasonal temperature changes
Replace failing closers promptly to prevent further damage

Investing in a high-quality commercial-grade closer can save money over time by reducing wear and tear.

3. Tighten and Maintain Hardware

Handles, locks, hinges, and other hardware components naturally loosen over time due to frequent use. Ignoring minor issues can quickly turn into larger, more expensive repairs.

To stay ahead of problems:

Routinely check for loose handles, screws, and mounting hardware
Tighten components at the first sign of movement
Replace worn or damaged parts before they fail completely

Well-maintained hardware not only improves function but also enhances security for your business.

4. Use Proper Door Stops and Hold-Open Devices

It’s common to prop doors open during deliveries or busy hours—but using makeshift solutions like rocks, bricks, or wedges can cause serious damage.

Improper door stops can lead to:

Bent hinges
Damaged door frames
Misalignment of the entire door system

Better options include:

Installed kickdown door stops
Magnetic or wall-mounted stops
Door closers with built-in hold-open features

Using the right equipment helps preserve the structural integrity of your door.

5. Protect Glass from Impact and Breakage

Commercial glass is designed to be durable, but it’s not indestructible. Many instances of glass damage are preventable with a little proactive care.

Reduce the risk of breakage by:

Keeping entry areas free of rocks, gravel, and debris
Being mindful of landscaping equipment near storefronts
Securing or removing loose objects like planters or signage near entrances

If your business experiences heavy foot traffic, it may also be worth discussing upgraded glass options for added strength and safety.

Schedule Professional Maintenance with Custom Glass Experts in Novi

Even with regular in-house maintenance, having a professional inspect your commercial doors can catch issues early—before they turn into costly repairs or safety concerns.

A professional service can:

Identify alignment or structural issues
Ensure compliance with safety standards
Recommend upgrades or replacements when needed

Routine inspections are a smart investment in the long-term performance of your storefront.

Need a glass door repaired or installed? We offer custom glass in Novi, Ann Arbor, and all their surrounding areas! Call 734-426-5600 or submit a contact form here to get started.