Key Features

Commercial-grade steel entry door specifications

Thermal Performance

Polyurethane foam cores provide R-12 to R-15 insulation values. Thermal break frames eliminate conductive heat transfer for energy code compliance.

Weather Protection

Comprehensive weatherstripping at head, jambs, and threshold. Adjustable sill systems and rain drip caps ensure water management.

Security Features

Heavy-gauge steel construction with reinforced lock areas. Multi-point locking systems and security strike options available.

Decorative Options

Embossed panel designs, decorative glass inserts, and sidelight configurations create attractive building entrances.

Fire-Rated Assemblies

UL-listed fire ratings from 20 to 90 minutes with proper frames and hardware for code-compliant installations.

Durable Finishes

Factory-applied powder coat or painted finishes with galvanized substrate for long-term corrosion resistance.

ADA Compliance

Properly sized for accessibility requirements with appropriate hardware mounting heights and operating forces.

Custom Sizing

Standard and custom sizes with sidelight and transom options for complete entrance systems.

Material Options

Steel grades and construction for exterior entry applications

Steel Material Grades

Standard

Hot-Dip Galvanized

Zinc-coated steel providing excellent corrosion resistance for exterior exposure. Standard for entry door applications.

● Corrosion: Excellent
● Paint Adhesion: Good
● Weldability: Good

Best For: Standard entries, commercial entrances

Galvanneal Steel

Zinc-iron alloy coating for superior paint adhesion and corrosion protection.

● Corrosion: Very Good
● Paint Adhesion: Excellent
● Weldability: Good

Best For: Architectural entries, premium finishes

Stainless Steel

304 or 316 stainless for severe corrosive environments.

● Corrosion: Superior
● Paint Adhesion: Good
● Weldability: Good

Best For: Coastal, marine, chemical exposure

Steel Gauge Options

Gauge	Thickness	HMMA Level	SDI Grade	Applications	Cost
18 Gauge	1.20mm (0.0478")	Level 2 - Heavy Duty	Grade 2	Standard commercial entries, office, retail	$$
16 Gauge	1.50mm (0.0598")	Level 3 - Extra Heavy Duty	Grade 3	High-traffic entries, schools, public buildings	$$$
14 Gauge	1.90mm (0.0747")	Level 4 - Maximum Duty	Grade 4	Security entries, institutional, government	$$$$

Material Comparison

Property	Galvanized	Galvanneal	Stainless
Corrosion Resistance	Excellent	Very Good	Superior
Paint Adhesion	Good	Excellent	Good
Cost Index	$$	$$	$$$$
Exterior Durability	25+ years	25+ years	40+ years
Best Application	Standard Entry	Premium Entry	Coastal/Marine

Finish & Coating Options

Weather-resistant finishes for exterior entry applications

Recommended

Powder Coat

Factory-applied powder coating for durability and weather resistance on entry doors.

Standard: AAMA 2604/2605 | Thickness: 2-4 mils

✓ Excellent UV resistance
✓ Wide color selection
✓ Consistent finish
✓ Superior weather resistance

Premium Powder Coat

Super durable PVDF powder coat for maximum exterior exposure.

Standard: AAMA 2605 | Thickness: 2.5-4 mils

✓ Maximum color retention
✓ Chalk resistance
✓ 20+ year film integrity
✓ Architectural grade

Default

Galvanized + Powder Coat

Dual protection for maximum corrosion resistance in exterior applications.

Process: Hot-dip galvanize, conversion coat, powder coat

✓ Maximum corrosion protection
✓ Dual barrier system
✓ Extended service life

Wood Grain Transfer

Decorative wood appearance on steel entry doors.

Process: Sublimation transfer over powder coat

✓ Wood appearance
✓ Steel durability
✓ Low maintenance
✓ Oak, walnut, mahogany, cherry patterns

Special Coatings

Anti-Fingerprint

High-visibility entries

Anti-Graffiti

Public building entries

High-UV Resistance

Sun-exposed entries

Textured Finish

Architectural entries

Color Options

Standard Colors

RAL 9016 Traffic White
RAL 8017 Chocolate Brown
RAL 7016 Anthracite Gray
RAL 9005 Jet Black

Popular Colors

RAL 3005 Wine Red
RAL 6005 Moss Green
RAL 5011 Steel Blue
RAL 1015 Light Ivory

Custom Colors: Any RAL or custom color match available upon request.

Finish Performance Ratings

Finish Type	Durability	UV Resistance	Weather	Cost
Powder Coat	Excellent	Very Good	Excellent	$$
Premium Powder Coat	Superior	Excellent	Superior	$$$
Galv + Powder	Excellent	Very Good	Superior	$$$
Wood Grain	Very Good	Good	Very Good	$$$

Technical Specifications

Comprehensive specifications for steel entry door projects

Standard Dimensions

Standard Widths

2'8" 3'0" 3'4" 3'6" 4'0"

Standard Heights

6'8" 7'0" 8'0"

Configuration	Max Width	Max Height	Tolerance
Single Door	4'0" (1219mm)	8'0" (2438mm)	+0/-1/16"
Pair Doors	8'0" (2438mm) total	8'0" (2438mm)	+0/-1/16"
Custom Sizes	Available upon request - consult factory

Construction Details

Door Faces

Gauge: 18, 16, or 14 gauge
Material: Hot-dip galvanized or galvanneal steel
Seam: Continuous welded, ground smooth

Hinge Prep

Standard: 4-1/2" x 4-1/2" heavy weight
Heavy Duty: 5" x 5" heavy weight
Quantity: 3 up to 7'0", 4 for taller

Lock Prep

Cylindrical: 161 prep (2-1/8" bore)
Mortise: 86 prep for entry
Backset: 2-3/4" standard

Core Types

Core Type	Description	Fire Rating	Thermal Value
Polyurethane	Injected polyurethane foam for maximum thermal value	45 minutes max	R-12 to R-15
Polystyrene	Expanded polystyrene for thermal performance	20 minutes max	R-8 to R-10
Steel Stiffened	Vertical steel stiffeners for fire and security entry doors	Up to 90 minutes	R-1 to R-2
Mineral Core	High-density mineral board for fire-rated entries	Up to 90 minutes	R-4 to R-6

Performance Ratings

Fire Ratings

20 min 45 min 60 min 90 min

Certification: UL, WHI/Intertek. Complete labeled assembly with frame and hardware required.

Thermal Performance

U-Factor Range: 0.25-0.50
Polystyrene Core: U-0.40
Polyurethane Core: U-0.25-0.30

ENERGY STAR Compliance: Polyurethane core with thermal break frame

Air Infiltration

Rating: 0.30 cfm/ft² maximum

Test Standard: ASTM E283

Water Penetration

Rating: No penetration at 8 psf

Test Standard: ASTM E331

Applicable Standards

Manufacturing

HMMA 860 - Guide Specifications
HMMA 861 - Selection and Usage
SDI-100 - Steel Door Standards

Testing

UL 10B/10C - Fire Test
ASTM E283 - Air Infiltration
ASTM E331 - Water Penetration
NFRC 100 - Thermal Performance

Energy

ENERGY STAR Door Criteria
IECC Energy Code Compliance

Construction & Design

Door construction details and decorative design options

Construction Types

Standard

Flush Construction

Smooth, seamless face surfaces for modern commercial entry appearance.

✓ Continuous welded seams ground smooth
✓ No exposed fasteners
✓ Clean appearance
✓ Accepts embossed panels

Best For: Commercial standard, modern architecture

Embossed Panel

Decorative panel patterns pressed into door face for traditional appearance.

✓ Various panel designs
✓ Traditional aesthetic
✓ Adds visual depth
✓ Conceals minor damage

Best For: Traditional buildings, decorative entries

Full Glass Entry

Maximum glass area for visibility and natural light at entries.

✓ Narrow stile design
✓ Maximized glass area
✓ Insulated glass units
✓ Contemporary appearance

Best For: Storefront entries, modern offices

Core Options

Core Type	R-Value	STC Rating	Fire Rating	Weight	Applications
Polyurethane	R-12 to R-15	STC 33-36	45 min max	Medium	Standard entries, energy-efficient buildings
Polystyrene	R-8 to R-10	STC 30-33	20 min max	Light	Economical entries, mild climates
Steel Stiffened	R-1 to R-2	STC 35-40	Up to 90 min	Heavy	Fire-rated entries, security
Mineral Core	R-4 to R-6	STC 40-45	Up to 90 min	Heavy	Maximum fire rating, acoustic entries

Edge Construction

Standard - Thermal Edge

Edges designed to minimize thermal bridging at entry doors

Heavy-Duty - Reinforced Thermal Edge

Enhanced edge reinforcement with thermal break

Hinge Edge

Full height reinforcement for heavy entry doors

Lock Edge

Extended reinforcement for multi-point locks

Hardware Reinforcement

Hinge Area

Standard: 12 gauge (2.66mm)
Heavy-Duty: 7 gauge (4.55mm)

Lock Area

Standard: 14 gauge reinforcement
Heavy-Duty: 12 gauge for multi-point locks

Closer Area

Standard: 14 gauge backing
Heavy-Duty: Through-bolted for automatic operators

Glass & Sidelight Options

Vision Lites

Standard Sizes:

6"x27" 10"x10" 22"x36" Full lite

Glass types: Clear tempered, insulated, Low-E, decorative. Fire-rated UL lite kits available.

Sidelights

Widths Available:

12" 14" 16"

Insulated glass units standard. Fixed or operable options.

Transoms

Heights Available:

12" 18" 24" Custom

Insulated glass units. Fixed standard configuration.

Frame Systems

Thermal break frames designed for entry door performance

Recommended

Thermal Break Frame

Frames with polyamide thermal breaks for energy efficiency and condensation control.

✓ Eliminates conductive heat transfer
✓ Prevents interior condensation
✓ Energy code compliance
✓ Improved comfort

Best For: Building entries, cold climates

Welded Frame

Factory-welded one-piece frames for entry door applications.

✓ Maximum structural integrity
✓ No field assembly required
✓ Clean corner appearance

Best For: New construction, masonry entries

Adjustable Entry Frame

Frames with adjustable components for precise weatherstripping seal.

✓ Field adjustable for tight seal
✓ Compensates for floor variations
✓ Optimized weatherstripping

Best For: Retrofit entries, uneven openings

Frame Profiles

Profile	Face Width	Depth	Application
Entry Standard	2"	5-3/4" to 8-3/4"	Most commercial entries
Entry with Sidelight	2" + mullion	5-3/4" to 8-3/4"	Entries with sidelights
Transom Frame	2"	Various	Entries with transoms

Anchor Types

Masonry Anchor

Heavy-duty T-strap anchors for CMU, brick, concrete

Steel Stud Anchor

Reinforced clip anchors for steel stud construction

Wood Buck Anchor

Screw anchors for wood frame with steel entry

Through-Bolt Anchor

Through-wall bolting for high-security entries

Frame Gauge by Application

Application	Standard	Heavy-Duty
Commercial Entry	16 gauge	14 gauge
High-Traffic Entry	16 gauge	14 gauge
Security Entry	14 gauge	12 gauge
Sidelights	16 gauge	14 gauge

Applications

Steel entry doors for commercial building entrances

Primary Applications

Office Buildings

Professional entry solutions for commercial office buildings with energy efficiency and security.

Specific Uses:

Main entrances Vestibule doors Side entries Emergency exits

Recommended: 18 gauge, Polyurethane core, Architectural powder coat

Retail & Commercial

Attractive and durable entry doors for retail stores and commercial spaces.

Specific Uses:

Store entrances Shopping center Restaurant Service entries

Recommended: 18 gauge, Polyurethane core, Custom powder coat

Institutional Buildings

Heavy-duty entry doors for schools, government buildings, and public facilities.

Specific Uses:

School entries Government Libraries Community centers

Recommended: 16 gauge, Polyurethane or steel stiffened, High-durability finish

Healthcare Facilities

Entry doors meeting healthcare requirements for hygiene, accessibility, and fire safety.

Specific Uses:

Hospital entries Clinic entrances Medical offices Emergency

Recommended: 18 gauge, Per fire rating, Antimicrobial powder coat

Secondary Applications

Hospitality

Hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues

Multi-Family Residential

Apartment buildings, condominiums

Religious Buildings

Churches, temples, worship spaces

Light Industrial

Office fronts, warehouses

Code Considerations

Energy Code

Requirement: IECC compliance
U-Factor: 0.50 maximum for most zones
Air Leakage: 0.30 cfm/ft² max

Accessibility (ADA)

Clear Width: 32" minimum
Threshold: 1/2" max, beveled
Closer: 5 sec minimum close time

Egress

Hardware: Panic where required
Swing: Egress direction for high occupancy
Width: Per occupant load

Durability & Performance

Commercial-grade performance for building entries

Cycle Performance

Standard Commercial

500,000+

cycles minimum (ANSI/BHMA A156.115)

Heavy-Duty

1,000,000+

cycles with heavy weight hinges, commercial closer

Expected Service Life

Office Entry 25+ years

Retail Entry 20+ years

School Entry 30+ years

Impact Resistance by Gauge

Gauge	HMMA Level	Resistance	Application
20 Gauge	Level 1 - Standard	Light impacts only	Not recommended for entries
18 Gauge	Level 2 - Heavy Duty	Moderate impact	Standard commercial entries
16 Gauge	Level 3 - Extra Heavy	High impact	High-traffic entries, public buildings
14 Gauge	Level 4 - Maximum	Maximum impact	Security entries, institutional

Sound Performance (STC)

Polystyrene Core STC 30-33

Polyurethane Core STC 33-36

Steel Stiffened STC 35-40

Mineral Core STC 40-45

Corrosion Resistance

Galvanized 1500+ hrs salt spray

Galv + Powder Coat 2500+ hrs salt spray

Galvanneal + Powder 3000+ hrs salt spray

Maintenance Requirements

Monthly Tasks

• Clean door and frame surfaces
• Check closer operation
• Verify latch engagement
• Inspect weatherstripping condition

Annual Tasks

• Full hardware inspection
• Touch-up finish damage promptly
• Replace worn weatherstripping
• Adjust hardware as needed

Warranty Information

Standard Warranty 5 Years

Extended (16 ga+) 10 Years

Standard Finish 3 Years

Premium Finish 5 Years

Coverage: Manufacturing defects. Extended warranty requires 16 gauge minimum and premium finish.

Customization Options

Configure entry doors to your exact project specifications

Size Options

Standard Sizes

Widths:

2'8" 3'0" 3'4" 3'6" 4'0"

Heights:

6'8" 7'0" 8'0"

Custom Sizes

Width: 24" to 48" (single)
Height: 80" to 96"
Pairs: Up to 96" total
Increment: 1/8" increments

Door Types

• Single swing
• Pair doors (equal/unequal)
• With sidelights
• With transom

Hardware Preparation

Hinges

• Standard: 4-1/2" x 4-1/2"
• Heavy: 5" x 5"
• Continuous geared
• 3 std, 4 for >7'0"

Locks

• Cylindrical (161 prep)
• Mortise (86 prep)
• Multi-point
• Exit devices

Closers

• Surface mount
• Concealed overhead
• Automatic operators

Access Control

• Electric strike
• Mag lock
• Electronic lock
• Card reader prep

Vision Lite Options

Standard Sizes:

6"x27" 8"x27" 10"x10" 22"x36" Full lite

Glass Types:

Clear tempered Low-E insulated Decorative Fire-rated Security

Accessories

Kick Plates

6", 8", 10", 12" heights. SS, aluminum, brass.

Push/Pull

Plates, handles, entry sets. Various finishes.

Thresholds

Thermal break, ADA compliant, heavy-duty.

Weatherstripping

Head, jambs, adjustable sweep.

Minimum Order Information

Standard Doors

No minimum quantity

Custom Sizes

1 door minimum

Custom Colors

5 doors recommended

Product Comparison

Compare entry door configurations for your project

Entry Door Grade Comparison (SDI/HMMA)

Feature	Grade 2 (Level 2)	Grade 3 (Level 3)	Grade 4 (Level 4)
Face Gauge	18 gauge	16 gauge	14 gauge
Face Thickness	1.20mm	1.50mm	1.90mm
Frame Gauge	16 gauge	16 gauge	14 gauge
Impact Resistance	Moderate	High	Maximum
Traffic Level	Standard	Heavy	Maximum
Cost Index	$$	$$$	$$$$
Typical Use	Commercial Entry	Public Buildings	Security Entry

Recommendation: Grade 2 (18 gauge) for most commercial entries. Grade 3 for high-traffic public buildings.

Core Type Comparison for Entry Doors

Feature	Polystyrene	Polyurethane	Steel Stiffened	Mineral
R-Value	R-8-10	R-12-15	R-1-2	R-4-6
U-Factor	0.40	0.25-0.30	0.60	0.50
STC Rating	30-33	33-36	35-40	40-45
Fire Rating	20 min	45 min	90 min	90 min
Weight	Light	Medium	Heavy	Heavy
Cost Index	$	$$	$$$	$$$
Best For	Economy	Standard Entry	Fire/Security	Fire/Acoustic

Recommendation: Polyurethane core is the standard for most energy-efficient entry doors. Steel stiffened or mineral for fire-rated entries.

Recommended Configurations by Building Type

Building Type	Grade	Core	Finish	Fire Rating
Office Building	Grade 2	Polyurethane	Architectural PC	20-45 min
School/University	Grade 3	Polyurethane	High-durability	45-60 min
Hospital/Healthcare	Grade 2	Per fire req.	Antimicrobial	45-90 min
Retail/Shopping	Grade 2	Polyurethane	Custom color	20-45 min
Hotel/Hospitality	Grade 2	Polyurethane	Decorative	45-60 min
Government Building	Grade 3	Steel stiffened	High-durability	45-90 min

Steel Entry Doors vs Alternatives

Feature	Steel Entry	Fiberglass	Wood	Aluminum
Durability	Excellent	Very Good	Good	Good
Thermal Performance	Excellent	Excellent	Fair	Fair
Fire Ratings	Up to 90 min	20 min	90 min	Limited
Security	Excellent	Good	Fair	Fair
Maintenance	Low	Low	High	Low
Cost	$$	$$$	$$$	$$$
Best Application	Commercial	Residential	Traditional	Storefront

Conclusion: Steel entry doors provide the best combination of durability, fire rating, security, and value for commercial applications.

Installation Guidelines

Professional installation for optimal entry door performance

Receiving & Inspection

1. Inspect packaging for shipping damage
2. Verify door and frame match project schedule
3. Check hardware prep against specifications
4. Store in dry, climate-controlled location
5. Keep doors on edge or flat, protected from damage

Opening Verification

1. Confirm rough opening dimensions
2. Verify opening is plumb and level
3. Check wall construction matches frame anchors
4. Ensure adequate structural support for entry loads

Frame Installation

Set Frame in Opening

Position thermal break frame in rough opening. Set as one piece for welded frames.

Plumb Hinge Jamb

Shim hinge jamb plumb. Check at top, middle, and bottom.

Level Head

Verify head is level. Adjust strike side as needed.

Secure Anchors

Attach anchors to wall structure. Maintain plumb during securing.

Install Threshold

Set and secure threshold. Apply sealant under threshold.

Seal and Insulate

Apply backer rod and sealant at frame perimeter. Insulate voids.

Fire-Rated Installation Requirements

Critical Requirements:

• Install per NFPA 80 and manufacturer instructions
• Use only listed hardware
• Maintain maximum clearances (1/8" head and jambs)
• Install smoke seals where required
• Do not modify labeled door or frame

Inspection Points:

• Label intact and legible
• All hardware fire-listed
• Proper clearances
• Self-closing functional
• Self-latching functional

Note: Annual inspection required per NFPA 80 for all fire-rated door assemblies.

Common Issues & Solutions

Air leakage at threshold

Cause: Improper threshold seal

Solution: Adjust threshold and sweep, replace seal if worn

Water intrusion

Cause: Missing or improper sealant

Solution: Apply proper perimeter sealant, check drip cap

Door drags or binds

Cause: Frame out of plumb, thermal expansion

Solution: Re-shim frame, verify thermal break integrity

Excessive closer force

Cause: Closer adjustment

Solution: Adjust closer per ADA requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about steel entry doors

What makes steel entry doors energy efficient?

Steel entry doors achieve energy efficiency through polyurethane foam cores (R-12 to R-15 insulation), thermal break frames that eliminate conductive heat transfer, comprehensive weatherstripping systems at head, jambs, and threshold, and low-E insulated glass options for vision panels. These features combined can meet ENERGY STAR and IECC energy code requirements.

What is a thermal break frame and why is it important?

A thermal break frame incorporates a polyamide or similar non-conductive material between the interior and exterior frame surfaces. This breaks the path of heat conduction through the metal, preventing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Thermal break frames also prevent condensation on interior surfaces, which can cause damage and mold growth.

What fire ratings are available for steel entry doors?

Steel entry doors are available with fire ratings from 20 minutes to 90 minutes, certified by UL and WHI. The 45-minute rating is most common for commercial entries. Fire-rated entry doors require complete assemblies including listed frames and hardware, and must be installed per NFPA 80 requirements.

How do I choose between polyurethane and polystyrene core?

Polyurethane core provides the highest thermal performance (R-12 to R-15) and is recommended for most entry applications. Polystyrene core (R-8 to R-10) is a more economical option suitable for mild climates or budget-conscious projects. For fire-rated entries, steel-stiffened or mineral cores may be required depending on the rating.

Can steel entry doors be customized with decorative glass?

Yes, steel entry doors can include various glass options including clear tempered, decorative/textured, Low-E insulated, and fire-rated ceramic. Standard lite sizes range from narrow lites to full-glass configurations. Sidelights and transoms can also be incorporated into complete entry systems.

What gauge steel should I specify for entry doors?

For most commercial entries, 18 gauge (HMMA Level 2) provides excellent durability and thermal performance. High-traffic public building entries benefit from 16 gauge (Level 3) for added abuse resistance. Security entries and institutional applications may require 14 gauge (Level 4) for maximum protection.

How do steel entry doors compare to fiberglass or wood?

Steel entry doors offer superior durability, security, and fire rating options compared to fiberglass or wood alternatives. They provide excellent value with lower maintenance requirements and longer service life. Fiberglass excels in residential applications, while wood offers traditional aesthetics but requires more maintenance.

What is the lead time for custom entry doors?

Standard entry door configurations typically ship in 3-4 weeks. Custom sizes, colors, or configurations require 5-7 weeks. Fire-rated assemblies may require additional time for certification documentation. Contact us with project details for accurate lead times.