Serving Midwest Aviation Since 1960

Preparation Is Key Before Ordering A Hangar Door

Sharing Engineering Data Is Part Of Pre-Installation Task

When you decide it's time for you to build a new hangar or replace doors on your current hangar there are steps to take to make this process go smoothly and cost efficient as possible.

Contractors, architects, and door buyers should contact a reputable door manufacturer prior to placing a new or replacement door on their hangar to garner important engineering information that will prepare them for the job ahead.

Schweiss Doors can provide door weights and imposed loads that a bifold or hydraulic door exerts on your door header, endwall and building along with windload and design specifications, installer information and service after the sale. In addition, they can guide your decision on whether a bifold liftstrap door or one-piece hydraulic hangar door will be best suited for you. Other things to consider:

• Will you be getting all the headroom needed. What will be your clear inside measurement for your door?

• Will your door be equipped with various built-in safety features? Your manufacturer should be able to provide you with photo eye sensors, warning horns, lights, remote openers, walkdoors, keyless entry and backup systems in case of power outages?

• How much header support will be needed to accept the weight of a large door? Endwall rafter header placements are different for wood and steel buildings.

• If your hangar is a pole building, the number one thing to remember is with poles on each side, bracing is half the battle.

• If you are in a high wind area, you should consider having automatic windpins placed on your door for added stability.

• Can your bifold door be ordered with an automatic latching (locking) system?

• If you are adding a door to an older building or wood building, should you consider a freestanding header for additional support. Can your doors be built with external or internal trusses?

• How robust are the cylinders and hinges on the manufacturer's doors? Do the hinges have grease zerks for easy lubrication?

• What warranties or guarantees do the doors and components carry.

• What lead time will be needed once you place an order. What will your deposit be?

• Don't substitute quality for price.

For more information, contact Schweiss Doors at (507) 426-8273 or visit http://www.schweissdoors.com

 

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