Commercial properties rely on entrance systems that provide security, aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency. But a poor installation can be a hidden liability that leads to escalating operational costs and safety concerns.
Recognising the key signs of faulty workmanship early allows property managers to enforce quality standards and protect their investment. These signs can include:
1. Misalignment of the Door Frame
This is often the most definitive sign of substandard work. If the door frame is not installed perfectly plumb and square it places immediate and unnecessary stress on all moving parts. Signs include noticeable uneven gaps between the door sash and the fixed frame or the door catching and dragging against the threshold. Misalignment guarantees the premature failure of hinges locking mechanisms and closer hardware which quickly leads to the need for costly commercial glazing repairs.
2. Inadequate Sealing and Insulation
The primary value proposition of modern commercial glazing is its thermal efficiency. If the installation is rushed the crucial perimeter seals between the aluminium frame and the building structure are often neglected. Look closely for exposed gaps or visible gaps in foam or sealant around the frame edges. Poor sealing leads to significant air and thermal leakage which renders the door system inefficient, drives up energy consumption and negates the expected energy savings.
3. Difficulty in Opening and Closing
While simple wear can cause a door to stick, chronic difficulty from a newly installed unit is a clear indicator of faulty fitting. If the door requires excessive physical force to latch, or if it consistently needs to be manually lifted to clear the threshold, the frame or sash dimensions may be incorrect. Such constant mechanical strain quickly damages the door closer and pivot points and can signal that the frame was not correctly supported or braced during installation.
4. Visible Condensation Between Glazed Panes
Condensation appearing on the exterior or interior glass surfaces is normal but moisture between the sealed glazed panes is a significant defect. This is known as a ‘blown’ unit and means the hermetic seal of the double-glazed unit has failed. The seal failure allows moisture-laden air into the cavity destroying the insulating gas and properties of the unit. This fault often occurs due to rough handling or incorrect installation and necessitates immediate glass replacement.
5. Aesthetic Deficiencies
The finished visual quality of an installation directly impacts the property’s public image. Poor installation is often revealed through minor aesthetic flaws such as rough cutting of perimeter trims excessive or smeared sealant on the frame or glass and visible tool marks on the aluminium profile. While these details may seem minor, they strongly correlate with a lack of care that often masks deeper, more critical structural flaws in the frame’s anchoring and support. Final inspection must confirm clean lines, precisely mitred corners and a consistently professional finish.
Identifying these five signs early allows managers to maintain high quality standards and ensures the longevity of commercial aluminium glazed doors. Failure to address these issues converts a necessary capital investment into a recurring and entirely avoidable operational cost.
At Alpha Glazing, all our doors and windows are installed by experienced professionals. Get in touch to find out more.
