Different Elevator Door Types

Different Elevator Door Types

Choosing the perfect elevator doors requires expert understanding of the building and the purpose of your elevator. From there, you can decide which doors will suit yours and the users’ needs. 

1. Side Sliding

Automatic sliding doors offer a smooth open and close for easy access by opening towards the right or left. It’s one of the most common elevator door types in North America. This type of elevator door is highly efficient operation-wise.

Best installed in: Side sliding elevator doors are the most common and can be installed in any passenger elevator that can accommodate them. They can be found in most places including parking lots, older residential buildings, small businesses and more.

2. Center parting

Center parting elevator doors are another wide-spread type of entrance. They incorporate two or more door panels that work together to protect a hoistway opening. Unlike side sliding doors, center-parting entrance door panels move in opposite directions from each other. These types of elevator doors employ faster door-open-and-close cycles. The door panels only travel to and from the midpoint of the opening, which saves boarding time for passengers.

Best installed in: Center parting 2 speed doors are best installed in high-traffic high-rises like offices and condos. 

Elevator Entrance and Door Frame Styles

Other than the main entryway, the most important doorways are elevator entrances and doors frames found in the lobby. These areas have some of the highest foot traffic in buildings, so make it count. 

When it comes to choosing elevator entrances and door frame styles, you have a few options to pick from:

1. Glass

Glass elevator entrances most commonly come in full or partial glass (with or without a frame). Glass doors are useful for security purposes and can help prevent crime and vandalism. You can typically find them in hotels, shopping malls, subway stations, airports and more. 

2. Decorative stainless steel

Decorative stainless steel entrances come in a variety of textures and patterns. If you decide to go with this option, you can get your logo custom-etched on the front of your elevator door. Many retail spaces and office buildings do this to promote their company. 

3. Plain stainless steel

Stainless steel options are a great way to carry a design across a building or property. You can also use elevator skins that come in different materials, finishes and patterns for your stainless steel doors. 

Choosing the Right Elevator Door Type

Picking the right elevator entrance and door is essential for building cohesion and the passenger journey. There are a few things to consider before choosing one right off the bat. 

Since the beginning of elevators, safety has always been the number one priority. If you’re in need of new doors due to previous damage, that’s a good place to start. Keep in mind that your elevators doors will need to be the same size and type as the ones you’re replacing.

Next, consider the purpose of your building and how much foot traffic it gets, its aesthetic and space. With this information, you can determine what type of elevator doors you need. It’s important to consider your elevator’s environment because first impressions are key in maintaining future business.