Summer Checklist: Doors & Hardware
Summer in Nashville brings heat, humidity, and high foot traffic across commercial sites. It’s also the best time to check for door issues that surfaced during the spring.
At JAM Door, we handle both installs and field service, so we know what tends to wear down when temps rise. Use this quick-hit checklist to help keep your commercial doors secure, compliant, and summer-ready.
Walk Every Opening for Visible Issues
Start with a full building walkthrough. Look for:
Doors dragging or hitting
Rust or bubbling paint on hollow metal frames
Loose hinges, sagging arms, or missing fasteners
Latches not engaging or locking properly
🔍 Pro Tip: Prioritize rooftop doors, dock entries, and sun-facing openings; these expand and shift more under direct heat and traffic.
Clean Dust, Pollen, and Debris from Door Systems
Grime builds up quickly in summer. Left unchecked, it can affect how doors close and how long they last.
🧼 Wipe down frames, thresholds, and hardware
🧽 Clean vision lites, weatherstripping, and closers
🚫 Avoid pressure washers; use non-abrasive tools
Clean doors operate better and show fewer signs of early wear.
Lubricate Hinges, Locks, and Moving Hardware
Heat increases friction. Lubrication helps reduce noise and wear on:
Hinges, Closers, Locks, Latches, Strike plates, and panic hardware
✅ Use non-gumming lubricant
⚠️ Avoid over-lubricating; it attracts dust and debris.
Adjust Closers and Sweeps for Summer Expansion
As materials expand, doors may shift. This can lead to:
Slamming or failure to latch
Sweeps dragging
ADA or code issues if ignored
🛠️ Adjust closer speed, latch tension, and alignment as part of seasonal service.
Reconfirm Life Safety and ADA Compliance
Summer inspections are common. Use this time to double-check:
Panic hardware function
Swing clearance and latch strength
Clear exit paths
Fire-rated labels are intact and visible
🚪 Avoid failed inspections by staying ahead of common door issues.
Schedule Preventative Service; Not Emergency Repairs
Many facilities now book seasonal service instead of waiting for failure. It’s a smart way to stay ahead in:
Office parks
Hotels + mixed-use spaces
Healthcare and institutional facilities
JAM Door’s summer service includes:
✅ Hardware and door inspections
✅ Lubrication and minor adjustments
✅ Code and safety checks
✅ Documentation for warranty or compliance
