This post was inspired after overhearing a bright new technician get these products confused. If he’s confused, we knew we needed address this question more broadly.
Rolling steel doors and commercial sheet doors are both types of barrel or drum-style overhead doors commonly used in commercial and industrial settings. Unlike traditional rollup overhead doors, these doors coil around a spring-loaded shaft that sits just above the door frame. This design can be motorized and be fitted into compact spaces and locations where wall and overhead space is at a premium. While the doors are similar, there are some key differences between them:
- Material Composition:
- Rolling steel doors, also known as slat doors, are typically constructed from interlocking steel slats. These doors are durable, secure and can be insulated. The slat design also allows a reputable garage door repair company to replace select sections of the door that may become damaged.
- Commercial sheet doors are often made from lighter weight materials such as aluminum or large sections of corrugated steel lock seemed together into a continuous sheet. These doors tend to be used in lighter-duty applications where security and insulation may be less of a concern. If you can picture a typical self-storage unit door and you are most likely visualizing a sheet door.
- Strength and Security:
- Rolling steel doors are known for their strength and security features. They are sturdy and used in applications where protecting the building and its contents from intrusion is a priority. Rolling steel doors are also often used in applications calling for bay doors and shutters with windload, design pressure, and fire rated capabilities.
- Commercial sheet doors are generally not as strong or secure as rolling steel doors. They are commonly used in settings where security requirements are lower, such as inside self-storage facilities and retail establishments.
- Insulation:
- Rolling steel doors can offer insulation properties, helping to regulate temperature and reduce energy costs in climate-controlled environments. The ability to insulate these doors also make them a go-to option for fire-rated applications.
- Commercial sheet roll-up doors typically provide little insulation compared to rolling steel doors and are often used in settings where insulation is not a primary concern.
- Cost:
- Rolling steel doors tend to be more expensive than commercial sheet roll-up doors due to their heavier construction.
- Commercial sheet doors are generally more cost-effective, making them a popular choice for businesses on a budget or for applications where security and insulation requirements are lower.
- Customization:
- Rolling steel doors can often be customized with various features such as different finishes, window inserts, and specialized locking mechanisms.
- Commercial sheet doors may offer fewer customization options compared to rolling steel doors.
Ultimately, the choice between a rolling steel door and a commercial sheet door depends on factors such as the level of security required, budget constraints, insulation needs, and aesthetic preferences.
About Garage Door Doctor
Garage Door Doctor is locally owned and proudly serves residential and commercial customers in Charlotte, Belmont, Concord, Cornelius, Davidson, Fort Mill, Gastonia, Harrisburg, Huntersville, Indian Trail, Kannapolis, Lake Norman, Marvin, Matthews, Mint Hill, Monroe, Mooresville, Mount Holly, Pineville, Rock Hill, Tena Cay, Waxhaw, Wesley Chapel, Weddington, North and South Carolina.
We offer new garage door design and installation, new garage door openers, same day service for repairs, fair and honest pricing, top quality products, and experienced and background checked technicians.
