Automatic doors offer a seamless and convenient solution for various types of buildings, from retail stores and office buildings to hospitals and airports. They provide hands-free access, enhance accessibility, and improve traffic flow in high-traffic areas. However, for those considering installing automatic doors.
The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the type of automatic door, the features required, installation costs, and maintenance. In this blog, we’ll break down these factors to help you better understand the cost of investing in an automatic door system.
1. Types of Automatic Doors and Their Cost
There are several types of automatic doors, each designed for different settings and purposes. The cost of the door will vary depending on the type of mechanism used. Below is an overview of the most common types and their typical price ranges:
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Sliding Doors: One of the most common types used in commercial settings, sliding doors open by sliding horizontally on a track. The cost for a basic sliding door typically ranges between $2,000 to $5,000. More advanced models, such as those with security features or energy-efficient glass, can push the price toward the higher end of that range.
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Swinging Doors: Automatic swinging doors operate similarly to traditional doors but are powered by automatic mechanisms. These doors are often used in places where space is limited. The cost of automatic swinging doors ranges from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on factors such as door size, material, and features.
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Folding Doors: These are a great option for tight spaces where sliding or swinging doors may not be suitable. Automatic folding doors are generally more expensive due to their complex mechanism. Expect to pay between $3,000 and $6,000 for folding doors.
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Revolving Doors: Automatic revolving doors provide continuous access, allowing for the smooth entry and exit of multiple people simultaneously. These doors are typically found in hotels, airports, and high-end office buildings. The cost of automatic revolving doors ranges from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the size, materials, and custom features.
2. Factors That Affect the Cost of Automatic Doors
Several factors can influence the overall cost of an automatic door system. These include:
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Material: The materials used to construct the door significantly impact the price. Glass doors are common for sliding and revolving doors, while steel or aluminum doors are often chosen for added durability and security. Wood and fiberglass may be used for swinging doors, depending on the design preferences. High-end materials like tempered glass or fire-rated steel will drive up the cost.
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Size and Customization: Custom-sized doors or those with unique features such as decorative glass panels or specialized finishes will typically cost more than standard sizes. Custom revolving doors or doors with intricate designs can easily push the price beyond the standard range.
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Safety and Security Features: If you require additional safety features like fire resistance, bulletproof glass, or enhanced security locks, this will increase the cost. Smart locks or access control systems for high-security areas can add anywhere from $500 to $2,000 to the total cost.
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Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient automatic doors are designed to minimize heat loss and reduce energy consumption. These doors often come with double-glazed glass or insulated frames to improve thermal performance, which can add $1,000 to $3,000 to the cost.
3. Installation Costs
The price of an automatic door doesn’t just include the cost of the door itself—installation is another critical factor to consider. Installation costs can vary depending on several factors:
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Labor: The complexity of the installation, including electrical wiring and the need for specialized equipment, can affect labor costs. Professional installation typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on the type of door and the difficulty of the installation.
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Site Preparation: If your building needs structural modifications to accommodate the automatic door—such as widening doorways, reinforcing frames, or rerouting electrical systems—these changes will add to the installation cost. Depending on the extent of the work needed, site preparation can add an additional $1,500 to $4,000.
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Electrical Work: Automatic doors require a reliable power source, so additional electrical wiring or upgrades may be needed. This could add another $500 to $1,500 to your installation costs, depending on the complexity of the job.
4. Maintenance and Operational Costs
Once your automatic door is installed, it will require regular maintenance to ensure smooth operation and avoid costly repairs. Typical maintenance costs include:
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Routine Maintenance: Automatic doors need regular inspection and maintenance to keep their sensors, motors, and mechanical parts in working order. A maintenance contract typically costs $300 to $800 annually, depending on the complexity of the system.
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Repairs and Parts Replacement: While automatic doors are built to be durable, parts like sensors, motors, and control panels may need to be replaced over time. Minor repairs can cost around $200 to $1,000, while larger repairs, such as replacing the motor or control system, can run $1,000 to $3,000.
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Energy Costs: Automatic doors consume electricity to power their sensors, motors, and control systems. While the energy usage is relatively low, especially for modern energy-efficient models, it’s still an operational cost to consider. On average, automatic doors consume about 100-300 watts of power when in use.
5. Long-Term Value
Although automatic doors can be a significant upfront investment, they provide long-term value in several ways:
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Enhanced Accessibility: Automatic doors improve accessibility for everyone, especially individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges, making your building more inclusive and compliant with accessibility regulations.
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Energy Savings: Energy-efficient automatic doors help reduce heating and cooling costs by minimizing air leakage and maintaining consistent indoor temperatures.
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Improved Traffic Flow: In high-traffic areas, automatic doors streamline entry and exit, reducing congestion and improving user experience.
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Increased Security: Automatic doors equipped with modern access control systems provide added security, preventing unauthorized entry.
Conclusion
The cost of an Patriot Doors and Hardware varies widely depending on the type of door, materials, customization options, and installation requirements. For basic automatic doors, you can expect to spend between $2,000 to $6,000, while more complex systems like revolving doors or those with advanced features can run $10,000 to $50,000 or more. Don’t forget to account for installation and maintenance costs, which can add several thousand dollars over the lifetime of the door.