PRO INSTALLER JANUARY 2017
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PRO NEWS windows are closed up to retain heat , meaning no air gets into the building . This change in air pressure causes closers to shut doors incorrectly – either not latch or shut too quickly . This is particularly prevalent for care homes and student accommodations . Air pressure can make doors harder to open as well . For care homes , employing door closers that have a free-swing or swing-free feature , which can turn a door into a free swinging operation , can be especially useful in these situations . The door becomes easier to open for these users who may have lessened upper body strength . Use of door closers with adjustable closing force and backcheck functionality is advised in student accommodations . The former allows students to overcome air pressure forces , while the latter prevents the door from being ‘ thrown ’ open and thus protects the door , door hardware and the wall behind the door from damage .
MAINTENANCE MISCONCEPTIONS Winter inherently brings cold weather , and maintenance staff or cleaners may unwittingly assume that spraying door closers and locks with antifreeze solutions to prevent any sticking or freezing is the correct thing to do . That ’ s a common misconception , and one that should be avoided . While moisture in the air can get into locks and joints and subsequently freeze and misalign your door hardware , preventative measures can be taken to prevent this . Using a water repellent spray to stop any moisture from sticking to hardware is the best way to stop water ingress . Using antifreeze solutions is highly hazardous as the chemicals are not tested against door hardware and they will corrode the hardware materials .
RESIDENTIAL BURGLARY RISING Extended dark nights mean more opportunities for burglars to be on the prowl , particularly in residential areas . The obvious reason is that lower lighting means less visibility and better chances to attack without getting caught . Older properties are more vulnerable as attackers know these buildings may have older residents and the door components are likely to be of a less secure nature . To stop attackers getting through your doors , look at your current locks and faceplates . If they don ’ t have the BSI Kitemark standard , then it may be worth changing to ones that have . Locks baring this symbol means they have passed the British Standards Institution test and will have completed intrusion attacks . Door viewers , visible alarm systems and lighting are also advisable to ward off any opportunists .
If you have any questions pertaining to doors and door components , please call us on 0121 380 2400 or visit www . allegion . com