Top Common Commercial Door Problems and How to Fix Them?

Liberty Door
June 26, 2025

In commercial properties, doors aren’t just points of entry—they’re integral to safety, security, accessibility, and operational flow. A door malfunction can interrupt business, jeopardize safety compliance, or leave a negative impression on customers. Whether you manage an office building, retail space, or warehouse, understanding the most common door problems—and how to address them—can save you time, money, and legal headaches.

Let’s walk through the typical door issues that facility managers encounter and how to approach them confidently and efficiently.

What Are the Most Frequent Door Problems in Commercial Buildings?

Even the sturdiest doors experience wear over time. High-traffic commercial entrances especially take a beating, which can lead to mechanical, electrical, or structural problems. Below are the most frequently reported issues—and what they mean for your building.

Misaligned Doors & Binding Tracks

When a commercial door sticks, drags, or won’t close properly, the culprit is often a misaligned hinge or warped track. This can be caused by frequent use, building settling, or impact damage.

Fix: A technician will inspect the alignment, adjust the hinges, and lubricate or replace worn track components. Realigning a door ensures proper sealing, smoother operation, and reduced long-term damage to the frame.

Worn or Missing Weatherstripping & Seals

If your interior feels drafty or your HVAC system seems overworked, your door seals might be the issue. Over time, weatherstripping can crack, shrink, or detach, letting in air, dust, and moisture.

Fix: Replacing seals and sweeps not only improves energy efficiency but also ensures your door meets NFPA and energy code standards. Choose durable materials suited to your climate and door type.

Broken Springs, Cables & Rollers (for Roll‑Up/Overhead Doors)

In warehouses or service bays, overhead doors rely on tension systems. When springs snap or cables fray, doors may become unbalanced or completely inoperable—posing a major safety risk.

Fix: These repairs should only be performed by licensed technicians. They’ll replace broken components with proper safety precautions and recalibrate the system for smooth and safe function.

Malfunctioning Door Closers & Automatic Operators

Does your door slam shut or fail to close fully? Malfunctioning closers can be dangerous, especially for accessible entryways. If automatic doors move too slowly—or not at all—they may violate ADA standards.

Fix: Professionals can recalibrate the closer, inspect hydraulic pressure, test sensors, and reset automatic systems. Timing and response sensitivity must be fine-tuned for accessibility compliance.

Rust, Corrosion & Rot (Metal/Wood Doors)

Exposure to weather, chemicals, and age can cause metal frames to corrode and wooden ones to warp or rot. This not only weakens structural integrity but also affects door security.

Fix: Minor rust can be sanded, primed, and sealed, while extensive corrosion or rot may require section replacement. Moisture control and protective coatings can prevent future issues.

Cracked Glass or Damaged Hardware (Hinges/Locks)

Glass doors and windows are common in storefronts and lobbies—but they’re also vulnerable to impact and stress fractures. Similarly, worn hinges or loose locks can become safety liabilities.

Fix: Replace cracked panes immediately to maintain safety and visibility. Hinges can be tightened or replaced, and commercial-grade locksets installed to secure the entryway.

Faulty Panic Bars & Crash‑Bars

Panic bars are essential in emergency exits—but if they jam or fail to latch, you may face serious code violations. Overuse or poor installation are common causes.

Fix: Technicians can repair latches, adjust bar alignment, or replace malfunctioning units per ANSI/BHMA standards, restoring full emergency egress function.

Sensor & Electrical Malfunctions (for Automatic Entries)

Automatic sliding and swinging doors rely on sensor arrays and control boards. If your door doesn’t open on cue or stays stuck, there could be a sensor fault or wiring problem.

Fix: Cleaning the sensors may solve minor issues. Otherwise, a professional will test the circuit, replace any faulty components, and recalibrate door behavior to ensure reliability.

Why These Problems Matter for Businesses

It’s easy to overlook a slightly dragging door or a slow closer—until it causes serious consequences. Here’s why timely repair matters beyond convenience:

Security and Liability Risks: Faulty locks, latches, or closures compromise building access and expose your business to theft or accidents.
Code Compliance (Fire/ADA): Malfunctioning panic bars or door openers can violate local safety or accessibility codes, leading to penalties or legal exposure.
Operational Downtime: A stuck overhead door can halt warehouse operations. A broken storefront entry could repel customers.
Energy Waste: Gaps or faulty seals lead to air loss, higher utility bills, and inconsistent building temperatures.

DIY vs. Professional Door Repair—When to Call the Pros

While some door issues seem easy to address, not all are safe or straightforward.

DIY-suitable fixes: Replacing weatherstripping, cleaning sensors, or tightening screws.
Call a professional when:
- There’s spring or cable tension involved (safety hazard)
- The problem involves wiring, automation, or fire code hardware
- You need repair documentation for insurance or inspections

Professionals not only fix the issue—they diagnose root causes, test functionality, and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Preventive Maintenance & Inspection Schedules

Routine inspection can prevent surprise breakdowns. Create a maintenance plan based on your building’s usage and door types:

Monthly: Visual inspections—check for wear, misalignment, rust, or missing parts.
Quarterly: Test closers, locks, sensors, and lubrication points.
Annually: Schedule full professional inspection for compliance, mechanical function, and performance testing.

Consistent upkeep is cost-effective and keeps your building safe, efficient, and within legal standards.

Estimated Cost Table & Urgency Levels

Here’s a practical look at what to expect in terms of repair urgency and budget planning:

Issue	Urgency	Estimated Repair Cost
Misalignment/Binding	Medium	$150–$400
Weatherstripping Replacement	Low	$50–$200
Spring/Cable Replacement	High	$300–$800 (licensed tech)
Closer/Sensor Repair	High	$200–$500
Glass Replacement	Medium	$150–$600 (per pane)
Panic Bar/Crash Bar Adjustment	High	$250–$600
Rust/Corrosion Treatment	Medium	$100–$400
Automatic Door Motor Rebuild	High	$400–$1,200

Costs vary by region, brand, and repair complexity, but early diagnosis often saves hundreds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does insurance cover all commercial door repairs?

Some repairs—especially from impact, vandalism, or severe weather—may be covered. Always check with your provider.

How often should a commercial door be inspected?

Professionally: once a year. Informally: every month. High-traffic areas may need more frequent checks.

What is ADA compliance for automatic doors?

Doors must open within a set time window and respond to sensors appropriately to be accessible. Closers, width, and response speed are all regulated.

Can I order replacement parts directly?

Yes, but installing them properly and maintaining compliance often requires professional service—especially for regulated components.

Final Takeaway — Keep Doors Operating Safely & Smoothly

A commercial door that sticks, slams, or fails to open on time isn’t just annoying—it’s a liability. Understanding the most common issues, acting on repairs early, and committing to regular maintenance can ensure smoother operations, code compliance, and peace of mind.

If your building shows signs of wear or if you’ve experienced repeated door issues, don’t wait for a total breakdown. Schedule an expert assessment today—and keep your business open, accessible, and secure.