Door closers are mechanical devices that ensure doors close slowly after they've been opened. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requires all commercial buildings to have them to provide accessibility for people who use wheelchairs or have mobility concerns. Here's a closer look at how these safety devices operate and some options to consider when discussing the installation with a commercial locksmith.

How Do Door Closers Work?

The commercial locksmith installs the closer assembly at the top or base of the door. The assembly consists of at least one compression spring, a geared spindle, and a gear-driven piston behind a chamber of hydraulic fluid. As the door is opened, the spring is compressed and the spindle pushes the piston back to the open position, with hydraulic fluid filling in behind it. 

As the door is released, the spring begins pushing the piston back to the closed position. The piston meets resistance from the hydraulic fluid, which it must push through the small holes in the assembly's cylinder. This is what makes the door close softly. 

Many assemblies have two holes in the cylinder. The first is a larger size to sweep the door closed slowly, with a second smaller hole at the end of the assembly to slow the door down even further as it reaches the latch. 

What Are the Types of Door Closers?

Surface Mounted

A surface mounted closer is an affordable solution for installing on existing doors. It consists of an arm mechanism attached to both the door and the door frame. 

It is mounted perpendicular to the door and frame at the top of the door and will hinge open when the door is opened. It is installed on the interior for outward opening doors or the exterior for inward opening ones. 

Concealed

The concealed closer provides a more aesthetic solution and will not be susceptible to vandalism, which is an important consideration for commercial buildings. The closer is installed either into the top of the door frame or beneath the door's threshold, with a cover plate placed over the mechanism. 

All that can be seen is the thin arm that connects the mechanisms concealed by the door and the frame or floor. Instead of hinges, these doors have a pivot point vertical rod that runs the length of the door and aligns with the closer. 

If you need door closers installed at your commercial building, contact ADA NY Locksmith Inc. in New York City. They have over 30 years of experience installing these safety devices. This licensed and insured commercial locksmith will get the job done quickly to ensure your building is ADA-compliant. Learn more about their services on their website, visit their storefront, or call (212) 689-1803 to request an estimate.