There is a vast array of choices available when it comes to door closers and it can be difficult to determine which one best suits your needs. You’ll need to consider factors like sizing, mounting, door type and usage, aesthetics, safety requirements and maintenance needs.

Door closers are hardware devices that automatically close and re-latch doors. They help to control air movement in and out of rooms, reduce slamming doors and comply with accessibility regulations.

Grade 1

Grade 1 door closers are a great option for high-traffic doors in locations such as schools, hospitals and offices. These durable, reliable models offer an adjustable power size from 1 to 6 and feature independent adjustment valves for sweep (closing), latching and backcheck speed to suit your needs.

Door closer grades are established as part of the ANSI/BHMA 156.4 standards for builder's hardware and indicate how many door cycles the device can perform without malfunctioning or leaking hydraulic fluid. However, outside factors such as wind and air stack pressure can affect the actual number of completed door cycles with the help of the Certified locksmiths.

Grade 2

Overhead concealed door closers are ideal for medium-to heavy traffic areas. They are installed and hidden from view inside the headers of storefront doors and frames.

Look for cUL or UL (in the US) marked door closers, which have been tested and certified to meet specific performance standards. These include cycle testing and closing force.

Choose a door closer with a power size based on the door's weight and traffic. The higher the power size, the more force the closer can exert. Many closers have field adjustable sizing, so you can increase or decrease the spring strength. This helps to avoid overpowering the door.

Grade 3

Door closer grades were created by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Builder’s Hardware Manufacturers Association to create a universal way to categorize door closer performance. Generally speaking, higher grade door closers are used in areas that see high traffic like mall entrances or office buildings.

Lower grade commercial door closers are used for doors that see low to medium traffic, such as condo or apartment entry doors. These types of doors typically have a backcheck feature that helps prevent the door from being thrown open by people or wind. This prevents potential damage or personal injury.

Grade 4

Door control products are one of the most durable and attractive components of any door opening. They can help ensure that a door is closed and secure without slamming or catching people off guard, while also complying with fire-rated doors requirements and ADA standards.

Some door closers are available in different spring power sizes ranging from 1 to 6. Choose the power size that is best for your specific door and installation location. For example, taller or wider doors require a larger spring that can withstand more force. Also, consider the weather conditions in your area. Extreme weather can damage a door and cause it to open too easily, posing a safety hazard.

Grade 5

Door closers are rated by opening and closing force, called "size." Size ratings range from one to six.

Many factors can affect a door closer's cycle performance. They can include a variety of things like the size, weight, location and type of door, and even wind or stack pressure.

Overhead concealed closers are a very durable and long-lasting option for heavy doors or areas with high traffic. They are installed recessed into the top rail and frame header, so they are hidden from view. Floor closers are another great choice for high traffic doors and they are a good alternative to overhead closers for budget-conscious applications.

Grade 6

A heavy duty closer designed for high traffic areas to help control the closing and latching of doors to eliminate slamming and damage. These door closers can also be configured to provide resistance or back check to prevent the door from being thrown open by wind, people or objects.

Door Closers Installation Service as surface mounted, regular arm surface mounted or parallel arm surface mounted and come with a standard plastic cover. They are fully adjustable from size 1 to 6 and can be configured with standard arms including regular arm, hold open arm, heavy duty parallel arm and dead stop arm. They can be specified with delayed action which is required by ADA for a ADA compliant opening.