Pivot Door Detail: What is a Pivot Door?
A pivot door is a type of door which rotates on a central pivot point. Unlike traditional hinged doors which use hinges to swing open and close, pivot doors rely on a pivot mechanism situated in the floor and header of the door frame to allow the door leaf to rotate.
Pivot doors come in different shapes and sizes, and can be made from a variety of materials including glass, metal, wood, and more.
Why Choose a Pivot Door?
Pivot doors offer several benefits over traditional hinged doors:
- Design Flexibility: Pivot doors can be custom made to fit any size or shape, which makes them ideal for use in unconventional spaces or for creating a bold design statement.
- Better Accessibility: Pivot doors require less clearance space than traditional hinged doors, which makes them perfect for areas with limited space or for those with mobility issues.
- Superior Performance: Pivot doors are designed to handle heavy use and can withstand harsh weather conditions, making them suitable for commercial and residential applications.
Pivot Door Detail: Anatomy of a Pivot Door
A pivot door consists of several key components:
- Door Leaf: This is the actual door panel which rotates on the pivot point.
- Pivot Hinge: The pivot hinge is located at the top and bottom of the door frame, and serves as the pivot point for the door leaf. A pivot hinge consists of two parts: the top pivot and the bottom pivot.
- Header: The header is a structural element that spans across the top of the door frame. The header supports the door leaf and the pivot hinge.
- Floor Pivot: The floor pivot is located at the bottom of the door frame, and holds the bottom pivot hinge in place.
- Threshold: The threshold is the horizontal member located at the bottom of the door frame which provides a smooth transition between the floors on either side of the door.
- Weather Stripping: Weather stripping around the door frame helps to seal out air and water, which can prevent energy loss and water damage.
Pivot Door Detail: Types of Pivot Doors
There are several types of pivot doors available:
- Single Pivot Door: This is the most common type of pivot door and consists of a single door leaf that rotates on a central pivot point within the door frame.
- Double Pivot Door: A double pivot door consists of two door leaves, each of which rotates on its own pivot point. Double pivot doors are ideal for use in larger openings.
- Offset Pivot Door: An offset pivot door has its pivot point located off-center, which allows the door leaf to pivot around a vertical axis. This type of pivot door is ideal for creating a dramatic entryway or to create a unique design statement.
- Horizontal Pivot Door: A horizontal pivot door consists of a single door leaf that rotates on a horizontal axis located within the door frame. This type of pivot door is ideal for use in spaces with low ceilings or for creating an unusual design feature.
Pivot Door Detail: Installation Process
Installing a pivot door requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here are the basic steps:
- Prepare the Door Opening: Ensure that the door opening is level, plumb, and square. Install the door frame, header, and threshold.
- Install the Pivot Hinges: Install the top and bottom pivot hinges into the door frame header and floor pivot respectively.
- Attach the Door Leaf: Attach the door leaf to the pivot hinges, making sure that the door is aligned and level.
- Install Weather Stripping: Install weather stripping around the door frame to seal out air and water.
- Test the Door: Open and close the door to ensure that it operates smoothly and that it seals properly when closed.
Pivot Door Detail: Maintenance and Care
Maintaining your pivot door is important to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Here are some tips to help you care for your pivot door:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your pivot door regularly using a mild, non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth.
- Check Pivot Hinges: Check the pivot hinges periodically to ensure that they are properly lubricated and adjusted.
- Inspect Weather Stripping: Inspect weather stripping regularly to ensure that it has not worn or sustained damage.
- Address Damage Promptly: Address any damage to your pivot door promptly to prevent further damage and to ensure that it continues to operate properly.
Conclusion
Pivot doors offer a unique and stylish alternative to traditional hinged doors. They offer superior performance, design flexibility, and accessibility, making them ideal for both residential and commercial applications. Whether you choose a single pivot door, a double pivot door, an offset pivot door, or a horizontal pivot door, proper installation, maintenance, and care is important to ensure that it continues to offer optimal performance for many years to come.
