In a world increasingly driven by convenience, safety, and technology, automatic doors have become a standard feature in commercial, industrial, and even residential spaces. These doors offer more than just hands-free access—they’re a seamless blend of accessibility, efficiency, and innovation.
From supermarkets and hospitals to office buildings and airports, automatic doors not only improve customer experience but also help reduce energy consumption and enhance building aesthetics. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the types of automatic doors, how they work, their advantages, applications, and key factors to consider when choosing the right system.
What Are Automatic Doors?
Automatic doors are powered entrance systems that open and close automatically without the need for physical contact. They operate using sensors, access control systems, or push buttons, making them especially beneficial for high-traffic areas or environments where hygiene and accessibility are priorities.
How Do They Work?
Automatic doors function using a combination of:
- Sensors (motion, infrared, or touchless)
- Control units (to process sensor input)
- Door operators (to control movement)
- Safety mechanisms (like anti-trap features and emergency opening)
The sensors detect a person approaching, signal the control unit, and initiate the door’s motorized mechanism to open or close smoothly.
Types of Automatic Doors
Depending on your building’s layout, aesthetic needs, and functional requirements, you can choose from several types of automatic doors:
1. Sliding Doors
- Ideal for wide entrances and high footfall areas
- Space-saving design
- Common in retail stores, airports, hospitals
2. Swing Doors
- Great for retrofitting existing hinged doors
- Opens inward, outward, or both
- Common in office buildings, schools, care homes
3. Folding Doors
- Suitable for limited spaces
- Offers full width clearance
- Used in restaurants, showrooms, and compact commercial spaces
4. Revolving Doors
- Provide continuous entry and exit
- Excellent for climate control
- Seen in hotels, corporate headquarters, and high-end shopping malls
5. Telescopic Sliding Doors
- Ideal for very wide entrances
- Multiple panels slide over each other
- Maximise opening space in narrow corridors
Benefits of Automatic Doors
1. Hands-Free Convenience
Automatic doors eliminate the need for touching handles, making them highly hygienic and perfect for healthcare settings, food services, and public buildings.
2. Improved Accessibility
These doors are essential for meeting DDA (Disability Discrimination Act) requirements and providing barrier-free access for wheelchair users, elderly individuals, and those with mobility impairments.
3. Enhanced Safety and Security
Modern automatic doors are fitted with:
- Safety sensors to prevent accidents
- Emergency opening systems
- Integration with access control for secure entry
4. Energy Efficiency
With their precise opening and closing, automatic doors reduce the amount of hot or cool air that escapes. This helps regulate internal temperatures and cuts down on energy bills.
5. Aesthetic Appeal
Available in various designs, finishes, and customizations, automatic doors enhance the architectural look of any building.
6. Increased Footfall & Customer Experience
In retail environments, easy access encourages more foot traffic. A welcoming entrance increases the likelihood of customers entering and spending time inside.
Where Are Automatic Doors Used?
Automatic doors are versatile and suitable for a range of sectors:
Retail and Shopping Centres
- Encourages shoppers to enter
- Supports accessibility for customers with pushchairs, wheelchairs, or carts
Hospitals and Clinics
- Maintains hygiene standards
- Offers easy access for stretchers and emergency personnel
Airports and Train Stations
- Handles high passenger flow
- Ensures smooth, fast movement through entrances
Hotels and Restaurants
- Adds a touch of luxury and sophistication
- Improves guest convenience
Office Buildings
- Enhances the corporate image
- Can be integrated with ID access control
Industrial Facilities
- Facilitates movement of goods, trolleys, and forklifts
- Suitable for warehouses and factories
Automatic Doors and Hygiene Control
One of the standout benefits of automatic doors is their touchless operation, which significantly reduces the spread of bacteria and viruses. Since COVID-19, many public buildings have upgraded to automatic systems to meet higher hygiene standards.
Automatic doors with antimicrobial coatings, sensor-based access, or foot activation further support health and safety protocols.
Compliance and Regulations
In the UK, automatic doors must comply with standards such as:
- BS EN 16005: Safety in use of power-operated pedestrian doors
- DDA (Disability Discrimination Act) compliance
- Building Regulations Part M: Accessibility requirements
- CE marking: Ensures doors meet EU safety and performance standards
Choosing a certified installer ensures your door system is safe, legal, and efficient.
Installation Considerations
When planning an automatic door installation, keep the following in mind:
1. Door Placement
- Interior or exterior?
- High-traffic or limited-use area?
- Single or double opening?
2. Power Supply
Automatic doors require a constant electrical source. Your installer should assess the load and make provisions.
3. Safety Features
Look for sensors, anti-pinch protection, emergency break-out functionality, and manual override options.
4. Integration
Do you need to integrate the door with:
- Alarm systems?
- Fire safety systems?
- Access control (e.g., key cards, biometric readers)?
5. Door Material & Finish
Aluminium, glass, steel, and timber are all options—choose one that complements your building’s design.
Maintenance and Servicing
Like any mechanical system, automatic doors require regular maintenance for:
- Safety
- Smooth operation
- Prolonged lifespan
Professional servicing includes:
- Cleaning sensor lenses
- Lubricating moving parts
- Adjusting opening/closing speed
- Safety sensor calibration
In the UK, it’s recommended to have automatic doors serviced at least twice a year, especially in commercial settings.
Automatic Doors and Smart Technology
As buildings become “smarter,” automatic doors can now be integrated with IoT systems and AI-powered access control. Features include:
- Facial recognition access
- Motion tracking
- Energy-efficient opening based on footfall
- Mobile app control
These innovations are shaping the future of automatic door systems—making them more intelligent, secure, and energy-conscious.
Cost of Automatic Doors in the UK
Prices vary depending on the door type, materials, size, and automation complexity. Here’s a general guide:
| Door Type | Approximate Cost (Installed) |
|---|---|
| Automatic Sliding Door | £2,500 – £5,000 |
| Automatic Swing Door | £1,800 – £4,000 |
| Revolving Door System | £8,000 – £20,000+ |
| Automatic Folding Door | £3,000 – £6,000 |
Ongoing maintenance may cost £200–£500 per year depending on service contracts and usage frequency.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Automatic doors contribute to sustainable architecture by:
- Minimizing heat loss in winter
- Preventing cold air entry in summer
- Reducing HVAC system load
Some systems are even equipped with energy-efficient motors and recyclable components, making them a green choice for eco-conscious buildings.
Conclusion
Automatic doors are no longer a luxury—they’re a necessity in the modern built environment. Whether you’re managing a retail outlet, healthcare facility, or corporate office, these doors offer a combination of style, functionality, and advanced access control.
By choosing the right type of automatic door and maintaining it regularly, you not only enhance convenience and safety but also create a welcoming and efficient space for all users.
