Known for high performance and durability, CHI rolling steel doors are the perfect solution for commercial properties looking to achieve both security and functionality in their door design. From selecting the right door to maintaining its performance over time, we’re here to share what you should expect during the selection and installation process.
Selecting the Perfect CHI Rolling Steel Door
Selecting the perfect CHI rolling steel door for your needs is the first step in ensuring a successful installation. Luckily, with this article and consultation from O’Fallon Overhead Doors, you’ll have all the resources you need to make the best choice for your business. CHI offers three types of doors for commercial properties:
Rolling Service Doors
CHI’s overhead coiling doors, also known as rolling service doors, are designed for maximum durability and strength. These doors work best in applications where large transportation vehicles must be accommodated and are available in various slat types, gauges, and operation types.
Counter Shutters
CHI also offers overhead counter doors, or counter shutters, for vendor applications, schools, churches, and more. These counter shutters provide heightened security, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal, with unique joint designs for an attractive appearance and seamless operation.
Rolling Fire Doors
Roll-up fire doors, while similar to rolling service doors, meet all your compliance and safety needs. These doors are best for businesses working with potentially dangerous materials or in high-risk environments due to the built-in smoke detectors, audio warning systems, and visual warning systems.
Insulated vs. Non-Insulated Doors
Once you have chosen the best rolling steel door for your application, it’s time to think about what insulation type will best meet your needs. Insulation is defined by the R-Value, which measures the thermal efficiency of your garage door. The higher the R-Value, the greater the insulating power.
However, deciding to insulate your doors and choosing whether to use polystyrene or polyurethane will depend on your location, what the door is being used for, and what building it will be fitted in. For example, if you are installing an indoor counter shutter, you may not need to insulate it, but if you’re installing an outdoor-facing rolling service door, you may want to consider insulation to protect against drafts, precipitation, and sound.
Preparing for Installation
So you’ve chosen your CHI rolling steel door… what’s next? Before the real work begins, there are a few steps you can follow to prepare your site for installation.
- Clear the Area: Remove any obstacles, debris, or clutter around the door opening. This will provide a clear workspace for installation.
- Complete a Structural Assessment: O’Fallon Overhead Doors will complete a structural assessment during your site visit to prepare for the installation. This includes checking the condition of the supporting structure around the door opening, ensuring it’s strong and stable enough to hold the new door, and confirming the door will easily fit in the space provided.
- Measure Accurately: No one likes dealing with last-minute changes, so when our team visits your site before the installation, we double-check all measurements to avoid discrepancies. Precise measurements ensure a proper fit and a seamless installation process!
The Installation Process
O’Fallon Overhead Door has a proven process to ensure the installation goes smoothly for you and our crew.
1. Drive Unit: The first thing installed is the drive unit, which is responsible for holding the motor lift and lowering the door.
2. Tracks and Rollers: The tracks and guides are installed next, the vertical guides securely attached to the side of the door frame and the rollers to the door panels.
3. Beam and Motor: Once these components are in place, a beam is installed above the door opening, and the motor is attached to the beam. Motor wires are then fed from the ceiling into a wall switch.
4. Infrared Sensors: Your door will also utilize infrared sensors, which are installed next and used to detect path obstructions.
5. Mounting the Door: After all the smaller pieces are ready to go, the door is mounted on the tracks and tested to ensure smooth movements.
6. Opener: Finally, the garage door opener is installed in the chosen location, and if applicable, the wall consoles are put in place.
Paying close attention to safety is our top priority during the installation process, as incorrect installation can lead to severe injuries or even death. To prioritize your safety, we keep the work area clean and recommend keeping employees away from the installation site to avoid any accidents.
Ongoing Maintenance
Once your doors are up and running, it’s important to complete occasional maintenance, routine inspections, and cleanings to maintain optimal performance. There are a few easy ways to do this:
- Regular Inspections: Execute routine checks of the door’s components, including tracks, springs, hinges, and openers, to identify signs of wear or damage. Completing these inspections can help you catch potential problems before they cause downtime in your rolling steel door operations.
- Lubrication: Keep the moving parts well-lubricated to prevent friction-related issues. Use lithium- or silicone-based grease for best results, and make sure to wipe any excess lubricant after applying.
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the door’s surface and components to prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris. Use a mild detergent and water, and dry the surface with a clean towel or cloth.
- Professional Maintenance: Consider scheduling professional maintenance annually to address potential issues early and prolong the door’s lifespan. However, if an emergency occurs, you contact O’Fallon Overhead Doors to quickly schedule repairs.
Start Your Installation Today
With this guide in your hand and our experts at your side, you have all the information and expertise you need to make your CHI rolling steel door installation a success. O’Fallon’s dedication to your success and CHI’s commitment to quality, coupled with the right door selection and proper ongoing maintenance, ensure that your investment will stand the test of time.
To start your next rolling steel door installation, connect with one of our experts and schedule your one-on-one consultation.
