The installation of commercial doors, particularly roll-up and pipe chase doors, requires careful planning and adherence to manufacturer guidelines. The documentation provided by Chase Doors offers detailed specifications and recommendations for ensuring both safe and efficient installation. This article will focus on the installation methods, safety features, and structural components associated with Chase Doors' products, based on the source material provided.
Installation Methods for Vinyl-Pro Roll-Up Doors
Chase Doors outlines three primary mounting methods for the Vinyl-Pro Roll-Up Doors, each designed to accommodate different architectural constraints and environmental conditions.
In-Jamb Mounting
In-Jamb Mounting is a method where the door is installed within the existing door jamb. According to the source, this requires approximately 8.5 inches of headroom, 8.5 inches of jamb depth, and 5 inches on each side of the jamb. This mounting technique is ideal for retrofitting existing door frames, allowing for minimal structural modification. However, the documentation does not specify the load-bearing capacity of the jamb or whether additional reinforcement is necessary for heavy-duty doors.
Face of Wall Mounting
The second mounting option is Face of Wall Mounting, which is described as the most common method for Vinyl-Pro Roll-Up Doors. This method involves installing the door flush against the wall surface when no door frame is present. The documentation advises that if the door is mounted externally, a protective covering should be applied to the barrel and motors to safeguard against weather damage and external elements. This recommendation indicates that the standard materials used in the door’s construction may not be fully weather-resistant without additional protective measures.
Inside Stand-Off Mounting
Inside Stand-Off Mounting is a third option that allows the door to be installed around an existing rolling steel or sectional door. This method keeps the door mounted inside the building, thereby protecting it from external weather conditions. The source does not provide further technical details regarding the compatibility of this method with different types of existing doors or the structural requirements for installation.
Each of these mounting methods is designed to accommodate different building layouts and functional needs, but the documentation does not specify the preferred method for high-traffic or high-security environments. Users are encouraged to evaluate their specific installation requirements and consult with a professional if necessary.
Safety Features and Functional Enhancements
Chase Doors emphasizes the importance of integrating safety features into their roll-up doors, particularly in environments where personnel and equipment are in close proximity to the door’s operating path. Several safety options are available to enhance the door's functionality and reduce the risk of injury or damage.
Photo-Eyes and Pneumatic Reversing Edges
The documentation mentions that Chase Doors can include photo-eyes and pneumatic reversing edges as part of the door’s safety configuration. These features are designed to detect obstacles in the door’s path and trigger an immediate reversal of the door’s movement. This is particularly important in industrial settings where forklifts, pallets, or other equipment may inadvertently be in the door’s path. The absence of detailed specifications regarding the range, response time, or compatibility of these systems with different door models is a notable gap in the information provided.
Clear PVC Vision Panels
To improve visibility and promote safety, Chase Doors also offers the option of adding clear PVC vision panels to the vinyl roll-up doors. These panels allow for a line of sight through the door, enabling operators to better assess the environment on the other side of the opening. The documentation does not specify the dimensions or placement of these panels, nor does it provide information on how they might affect the door’s structural integrity or insulation properties.
Save-T Breakaway Bars
Another key safety feature is the Save-T Breakaway Bars, which are designed to prevent the roll-up vinyl door from breaking if it is struck by an object. The documentation explains that the bottom bar releases in either direction when impacted and can be easily reset into the track. This feature is particularly beneficial in high-traffic areas where accidental collisions are more likely. However, the source does not clarify the load capacity or the force threshold at which the breakaway mechanism activates, which could be important for users in heavy-duty applications.
Structural Components and Material Specifications
The structural components of Chase Doors' products are engineered to provide durability, stability, and resistance to environmental stressors. The documentation outlines several key components that contribute to the overall performance of the doors.
Extruded Aluminum Wind Bars
Extruded Aluminum Wind Bars are described as being up to 50% stronger than other stiffeners in the industry. These bars are designed to protect the door against wind and negative pressure, which is especially important for doors installed in regions with high wind exposure. The documentation does not mention any limitations or specific wind resistance ratings, which would be useful for users in coastal or high-wind areas.
Extruded Aluminum Guide Tracks
The guide tracks are also made of extruded aluminum and include UHMW (Ultra-High Molecular Weight) inserts. These inserts serve to reduce friction and prevent the accumulation of black aluminum dust, which can be a maintenance concern over time. The source does not provide a comparison of UHMW inserts with other types of lubrication methods or materials, nor does it specify the expected lifespan of these components under different usage conditions.
Modular Panels
The Vinyl-Pro Roll-Up Doors are composed of modular panels made of heavy-duty 22 oz vinyl. These panels are designed to be interchangeable, allowing for quick and easy repairs of damaged sections without the need to replace the entire door. The documentation emphasizes that this feature reduces maintenance and repair costs over the door's lifetime. However, it does not specify the process for replacing individual panels or whether any special tools or expertise are required for this task.
Pipe Chase Door Specifications
In addition to the roll-up doors, the documentation also includes information about the Pipe Chase Door, a product offered by Unidoor. The Pipe Chase Door is described as a powder-coated model with a standard 18-gauge steel frame and sheet. It includes a 6mm clear glass window, hinges, locks, and screws for installation. The source does not provide further technical details such as the dimensions of the door, the type of powder coating used, or the specific security features of the lock mechanism.
The inclusion of a glass window is notable for applications where visibility is important, such as in security checkpoints or service areas. However, the documentation does not address the impact resistance or shatterproof qualities of the glass, which could be a concern in high-risk environments.
Conclusion
Chase Doors offers a range of installation options, safety features, and structural components designed to meet the needs of various commercial environments. The Vinyl-Pro Roll-Up Doors and Pipe Chase Doors are engineered for durability, ease of maintenance, and safety, with features such as photo-eyes, breakaway bars, and modular panels. However, the documentation provided does not include detailed specifications for all aspects of these products, particularly in terms of load capacity, wind resistance, and installation requirements for high-traffic or high-security applications. Users are encouraged to consult with a qualified technician or reach out to Chase Doors for additional technical information to ensure proper installation and optimal performance.