A few months ago, a client called us after their automatic glass door stopped closing properly. It had been acting up for weeks, but they kept putting it off.
That delay ended up costing them in energy bills, customer complaints, and a pricey emergency repair.
That situation made one thing clear: small door problems can grow fast and quietly drain your business.
Over the years, we’ve worked with hundreds of commercial properties, from medical offices to grocery stores. This list is based on issues we’ve actually fixed and seen firsthand, so you can trust it’s coming from experience, not theory.
In this article, you’ll get a quick, clear list of seven commercial door issues that need fast attention. You’ll learn what causes each one, what it might cost if you ignore it, and what to do about it. If you’ve got doors, this article has answers.
These are fixes that protect your customers, your team, and your bottom line.
So let’s get started!
Quick Troubleshooting Chart
Here’s a clear and simplified table that captures the core details from your comprehensive content. This format is ideal for quick reference or summary review.
| Issue | Why It Matters | Warning Signs | Quick Fixes | Call a Pro If |
| Door Closers | Causes slamming and safety risks | Slamming, leaks, won’t close | Tighten, adjust, inspect | Still leaks or fails |
| Weather Seals | Leads to drafts and energy loss | Gaps, drafts, moisture | Clean, replace, check sweep | Water damage or seals missing |
| Door Frames | Affects alignment and security | Won’t latch, gaps, scraping | Tighten, measure, fill cracks | Frame is warped or loose |
| Locks | Reduces access control | Key sticks, loose lock | Lubricate, tighten, test key | Lock won’t engage or is unstable |
| Auto Operators | Interrupts foot traffic | Slow, jerky, no response | Clean, reset, check power | Door won’t move or repeats issue |
| Rusted Parts | Weakens hardware | Rust, peeling, stiffness | Clean, seal, lubricate | Part is corroded or failing |
| Door Glass | Creates safety hazard | Cracks, fog, loose glass | Tape, film, monitor | Glass is shattered or spreading |
1. Broken or Malfunctioning Door Closers
Door closers are small but mighty. They help your doors open and close safely, control speed, and reduce wear on hinges and frames. But when they stop working right, they can cause noise, safety issues, and even damage over time. Spotting problems early and knowing how to respond can save you both time and money.
Signs Your Door Closer Is Broken or Malfunctioning
- Slamming Doors: If the door slams shut instead of closing gently, the closer’s tension is likely off or the hydraulic fluid may be leaking. This can lead to damage over time or even pose safety risks.
- Door Fails to Close Completely: A door that stays slightly open instead of shutting all the way could mean the closer arm is misaligned. It can also result from internal wear or a faulty valve.
- Unusual Noises: Clicking, squeaking, or hissing sounds when the door moves often signal internal issues. It might be air trapped in the closer or fluid leakage.
- Visible Leaks or Damage: Leaking oil or cracked casing is a clear red flag. Door closers use hydraulic fluid to control motion, so fluid loss means it won’t work properly.
Troubleshooting Tips for Door Closer Issues
- Check for Loose Screws or Brackets: Tighten any visibly loose fasteners on the door closer or arm. Loose mounting can throw off alignment and cause performance issues.
- Adjust the Tension Screws: Many door closers come with adjustable valves for closing speed. Use a screwdriver to turn the adjustment screws slowly and test for smoother operation.
- Inspect for Leaks or Rust: If you see fluid or rust, replacement is often the best solution. A leaking closer usually cannot be repaired effectively.
- Call a Technician if Issues Persist: If basic adjustments don’t solve the problem, it is time to call in help. A commercial door expert can assess whether repair or replacement is best.
2. Worn-Out Weather Stripping or Seals
Weather stripping and door seals do more than just block out rain and wind. Over time, these materials can wear down or break apart, which may seem minor at first but often leads to energy loss, rising utility bills, and even water damage.
Recognizing early signs and knowing how to fix them can save your business time, money, and frustration.
Signs Your Weather Stripping or Seals Are Worn Out
- Visible Gaps Around the Door: If you can see light peeking through the edges of a closed door, your seal isn’t doing its job. These gaps allow air, water, and insects to sneak in, reducing energy efficiency and comfort.
- Drafts or Temperature Swings: Feeling hot or cold air near your door, even when it’s shut, often points to failed weather stripping. This forces your heating or cooling system to work harder, increasing your monthly energy costs.
- Moisture or Water Intrusion: Water stains, puddles, or even just dampness near the base of the door are strong signs of seal failure. Over time, this can damage flooring, drywall, and even lead to mold growth.
- Worn, Cracked, or Peeling Material: Take a close look at the rubber or foam lining your door frame. If it’s cracked, crumbling, or pulling away, it’s time to replace it. A weak or broken seal can’t keep your building protected.
Troubleshooting Tips for Seal and Weather Stripping Issues
- Clean the Door Frame First: Dust, grime, and old adhesive can prevent new seals from sticking. Wipe the entire frame with a damp cloth and let it dry before applying any replacements.
- Apply New Adhesive-Backed Weather Stripping: For most commercial doors, replacing worn seals is simple. Choose the right material, cut it to fit snugly, and press it firmly into place along the door edges.
- Check the Threshold Seal Too: The bottom of the door is just as important as the top and sides. Vallisco suggests that worn threshold or door sweep can let in drafts, dirt, and bugs, even if the rest of the seal looks fine.
- Schedule Regular Inspections: Make it a habit to check all exterior door seals at least once per quarter. Inspections are quick and help catch small issues before they turn into big repairs or complaints from staff and customers.
3. Damaged or Misaligned Door Frames
Your door frame does more than just hold the door in place. It keeps everything aligned, helps the door open and close smoothly, and plays a key role in security and insulation. But with regular use, wear and tear, or impact damage, door frames can shift, warp, or crack.
Knowing what to look for helps you act before it disrupts daily operations.
Signs Your Door Frame Is Damaged or Misaligned
- Door Doesn’t Latch Properly: If the latch misses the strike plate or you have to pull hard to get the door to close, the frame is likely out of alignment. This can compromise security and make doors more prone to sticking or jamming.
- Gaps or Uneven Spacing Around the Door: Uneven spacing between the door and the frame means the structure has likely shifted. Gaps can let in air, water, and pests, and may also signal structural issues nearby.
- Cracks or Splits in the Frame: Visible damage like wood cracks, dents, or separation from the wall is a major red flag. These can grow over time and weaken the door’s stability and support.
- Scraping or Rubbing Sounds: If your door scrapes the floor or rubs against the frame when opening or closing, it’s often due to a warped or sagging frame. This can cause more wear on both the door and the hinges.
Troubleshooting Tips for Door Frame Issues
- Inspect the Hinges and Fasteners: Loose or worn hinges can cause the door to sag or misalign. Tightening or replacing screws may bring the frame back into proper alignment without the need for major repairs.
- Measure the Gaps and Compare Corners: Use a measuring tape to check for uneven spacing between the door and frame. Measuring diagonally from corner to corner can help confirm if the frame is out of square.
- Fill Minor Cracks with Wood Filler or Caulk: For small splits or gaps, a wood filler or high-quality sealant can provide a quick, temporary fix. Just make sure the surface is clean and dry before applying.
- Call a Professional for Severe Misalignment: If the frame is sagging, twisted, or pulling away from the wall, it’s best to contact a commercial door technician. Major alignment problems often need tools and expertise to avoid structural issues down the road.
4. Faulty Locking Mechanisms
Locks are one of the most important parts of any commercial door. They protect your space, equipment, and people. But like any other component, locks can wear out, jam, or break from regular use or exposure to the elements.
When locks don’t work properly, you’re not just dealing with a door issue, you’re facing a serious security risk.
Signs Your Locking Mechanism Is Failing
- Key Turns but Doesn’t Unlock: If the key rotates inside the lock but the door doesn’t open, the internal mechanism may be damaged. This usually means the lock’s internal parts are worn or disconnected.
- Difficulty Inserting or Removing the Key: When it’s hard to slide the key in or out, there may be dirt, rust, or wear inside the cylinder. This not only causes frustration but also puts stress on the key and lock over time.
- Loose or Wobbly Lock Cylinder: A lock that shifts or rattles when you use it is likely coming loose from the door. This weakens the lock’s hold and makes forced entry easier.
- Delayed Locking or Sticking Deadbolt: If you have to jiggle the handle or push the door to get the deadbolt to engage, the alignment may be off. This could be due to a warped door, misaligned strike plate, or internal wear.
Troubleshooting Tips for Faulty Locks
- Clean the Lock and Lubricate Moving Parts: Use a dry lubricant or graphite powder inside the keyway to reduce friction. Avoid oil-based products, which attract dirt and gum up the mechanism.
- Tighten Loose Screws or Lock Plates: A lock that feels loose may just need to be re-secured. Check the mounting screws and the strike plate to make sure everything is tight and properly aligned.
- Test with a Spare Key: Sometimes the issue is with a worn key, not the lock. Try using a spare or newly cut key to see if the problem improves.
- Replace or Re-key When Necessary: If the lock is damaged beyond repair or no longer secure, it’s best to replace it or have it re-keyed by a licensed locksmith. This restores both function and safety.
5. Malfunctioning Automatic Door Operators
Automatic doors help people enter and exit their building without touching a thing. They’re a key part of making your space accessible and professional. But when the operator behind those doors starts failing, it can lead to safety issues, traffic jams, or complete shutdown.
Spotting early signs and acting fast can prevent disruptions and expensive emergency repairs.
Signs Your Automatic Door Operator Is Not Working Right
- Door Opens Too Slowly or Not at All: If the door hesitates, moves sluggishly, or refuses to open, the operator may be underpowered, overloaded, or malfunctioning. This creates access issues for customers and staff alike.
- Jerky or Uneven Motion: A smooth open and close cycle is normal. If the door starts moving in a jerky or unpredictable way, there may be motor wear, track blockage, or control board issues.
- Sensors Fail to Detect People: If the door doesn’t respond when someone approaches, the motion sensor may be dirty, blocked, or failing. This can leave customers stuck or unsure how to enter.
- Loud or Unusual Sounds During Operation: Grinding, buzzing, or clicking sounds from the operator are never a good sign. These noises often point to mechanical stress, misalignment, or parts nearing the end of their life.
Troubleshooting Tips for Automatic Door Operator Issues
- Inspect and Clean the Sensors: Dirt, dust, or spider webs can block the infrared or motion sensors. Wipe them clean gently and test the door again before assuming it’s a deeper issue.
- Check the Power Supply: Make sure the door operator is receiving power and hasn’t been disconnected. If there’s no response at all, this is the first thing to check.
- Reset the Door System: Some automatic doors have a reset function or power switch. Turning the system off and on again can clear minor faults in the control board.
- Schedule Preventive Maintenance: If your door operator is having recurring issues, set up regular maintenance with a certified technician. Vallisco suggests that these systems need routine checks to keep running smoothly and safely.
6. Rust and Corrosion on Metal Components
Metal parts are everywhere in commercial doors. These components are built to last, but over time, moisture, salt, and daily wear can cause rust and corrosion. If left unchecked, rust weakens the structure, affects performance, and can even lead to full part failure.
Spotting early signs and treating them quickly helps extend the life of your doors and keeps your building secure.
Signs of Rust or Corrosion on Door Hardware
- Visible Orange or Brown Stains: The most obvious sign of rust is discoloration on metal surfaces. These stains usually appear near hinges, bolts, or the bottom of the door where water collects.
- Flaking or Peeling Metal Surfaces: If you notice pieces of metal breaking away or flaking off, corrosion has already started to damage the material. This makes the hardware weaker and more likely to break under stress.
- Stiff or Creaky Moving Parts: Hinges, closers, and locks that suddenly become harder to move could be rusting from the inside. This puts strain on users and wears down parts faster.
- Loose or Warped Components: Rust can eat away at fasteners and mounting points, causing parts to shift or lose alignment. A loose hinge or bracket can eventually lead to a full door failure.
Troubleshooting Tips for Rust and Corrosion Issues
- Clean Affected Areas with a Wire Brush: Remove surface rust gently using a wire brush or fine sandpaper. Be careful not to damage the surrounding area, especially on painted surfaces.
- Apply a Rust Converter or Sealant: Use rust-neutralizing products to stop corrosion from spreading. These treatments bond to the metal and create a protective coating.
- Lubricate Hinges and Moving Parts: After cleaning, use a commercial-grade lubricant to protect joints and hinges. This helps prevent new rust from forming due to moisture buildup.
- Replace Severely Corroded Parts: If rust has compromised the function or strength of any part, it’s best to replace it. A failing hinge, bolt, or bracket can cause bigger issues if it breaks during use.
7. Cracked or Shattered Door Glass
Glass doors are common in storefronts, offices, and commercial buildings because they create an open, modern look. But when that glass cracks, chips, or breaks completely, it’s more than just an eyesore.
Damaged glass is a serious safety risk, affects your building’s insulation, and can even lead to theft or injury. Whether the issue is a small crack or a full break, it should never be ignored.
Signs of Glass Damage in Commercial Doors
- Hairline Cracks or Chips in the Glass: Small cracks or edge chips might not seem urgent, but they weaken the entire pane. With enough pressure or temperature change, they can quickly spread or shatter.
- Fogging Between Glass Panes: If your door uses insulated glass and you see fog, moisture, or streaks between the layers, the seal has failed. This reduces insulation and can eventually lead to further cracking.
- Visible Impact Marks: A dent, scratch, or circular mark from a hit often means the glass was weakened. Even if it hasn’t cracked yet, the surface is more likely to fail under stress.
- Rattling or Loose Glass: If the glass wiggles in the frame or feels loose when touched, it may have shifted due to impact or a broken seal. This can lead to breakage with even light use.
Troubleshooting Tips for Damaged Door Glass
- Mark and Monitor Minor Cracks: For small cracks, place a piece of tape near the damage and check it daily. If it grows or spreads, take action right away. Avoid applying pressure or slamming the door.
- Use Safety Film as a Temporary Fix: Apply a clear safety film to hold the cracked area together while you wait for repair. This helps prevent injury and keeps glass from falling if it breaks further.
- Avoid DIY Repairs on Major Breaks: Large cracks or shattered glass should not be handled without proper gear and training. Contact a commercial glass technician to safely remove and replace the panel.
- Upgrade to Tempered or Laminated Glass: If breakage has been a recurring issue, consider replacing the panel with a stronger option like tempered or laminated glass. These resist impact better and are safer if they do break.
Conclusion
Remember that business with the broken door that wouldn’t close? After their emergency fix, they started doing regular checks, and saw fewer complaints and better energy savings.
Each of these seven repairs could be the one that saves your next workday.
Go back through the article if you need a quick recap. It’s all there—clear, simple, and built for busy business owners like you.
Door issues don’t solve themselves. Stay ahead of them. Let Vallisco help you get started. Contact us today!
