What is a Hollow Metal Door Frame?

A hollow metal door frame is a durable, heavy-duty frame typically made from steel or stainless steel, designed to support commercial and industrial doors. Unlike solid frames, it has a hollow center, making it lighter without sacrificing strength. Hollow metal frames are valued for their security, fire resistance, and ability to withstand high-traffic use. They are commonly used in retail stores, offices, schools, and hospitals, and can be customized with different finishes, hardware, and reinforcements to meet specific building codes and design needs.

                                               

Where are hollow metal door frames commonly used?

Hollow metal door frames are commonly used in commercial, institutional, and industrial settings where durability, security, and fire resistance are important. You’ll often find them in retail stores, office buildings, schools, hospitals, government facilities, warehouses, and apartment complexes. They are ideal for both exterior and interior doors, especially in high-traffic areas where strength and long-term performance are critical.

What are the benefits of a hollow metal door frame?

Hollow metal door frames offer several key benefits, making them a popular choice for commercial and industrial applications:

• Durability and Strength: Hollow metal frames are made from steel or other metal, providing exceptional strength and resilience. They are resistant to damage from impact, wear, and heavy usage, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.
• Security: These frames provide enhanced security because of their sturdy construction. They are difficult to break or tamper with, which is important for protecting buildings and assets.
• Fire Resistance: Many hollow metal door frames are fire-rated, meaning they can withstand high temperatures for a set period, helping to contain the spread of fire and smoke. This is crucial for buildings that require fire protection, such as hospitals, schools, and commercial buildings.
• Low Maintenance: Hollow metal door frames are relatively low-maintenance. They are resistant to environmental wear and tear, including moisture and pests, making them ideal for areas with harsh conditions.
• Long Lifespan: These frames offer a long-lasting solution that can withstand years of use without significant wear, making them a cost-effective investment in the long term.
• Versatility: Hollow metal door frames can be customized to fit different door types and sizes. They can also be adapted to accommodate various hardware options, including locks, hinges, and closers.
• Aesthetic Options: Though durable, hollow metal frames can also be finished or coated to suit the aesthetic requirements of the space, offering a range of colors and styles.
• Energy Efficiency: In some cases, hollow metal door frames can provide better insulation than traditional wood frames, improving energy efficiency in buildings by reducing heat loss or gain.

These benefits make hollow metal door frames a versatile and reliable option for both commercial and industrial applications, ensuring long-term performance, safety, and durability.

Can a hollow metal door frame be used with wood doors?

Yes, a hollow metal door frame can be used with commercial wood doors. This combination is quite common in commercial and industrial applications. The metal frame provides a strong, durable, and secure support structure for the door, while the wood door offers a traditional, aesthetic appearance. When using a hollow metal frame with a wood door, the frame is designed to accommodate the specific dimensions of the wood door, ensuring it is properly secured and aligned. The frame can also be customized to include necessary hardware such as locks, hinges, and closers, which enhance the overall functionality of the door system.

Using a hollow metal frame with a wood door also allows for the added benefits of fire resistance, security, and durability that come with metal frames, while still maintaining the visual appeal and warmth of wood.

                   

Are hollow metal door frames fire-rated?

Yes, hollow metal door frames can be fire-rated, making them an ideal choice for buildings and spaces that require fire protection. These frames are designed to withstand high temperatures for a specified period, typically ranging from 20 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the fire rating. Fire-rated hollow metal door frames, when paired with fire-rated doors, help to contain the spread of flames and smoke, enhancing the overall fire safety of a building.

The fire-resistance of hollow metal frames is achieved through their construction using fire-resistant materials and the inclusion of fire-resistant seals and gaskets. When properly installed, fire-rated hollow metal door frames play a critical role in helping a building comply with local building codes and regulations related to fire safety.

How long do hollow metal door frames last?

Hollow metal door frames are highly durable and, with proper maintenance, can last several decades. On average, they can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years or more, depending on factors such as environmental conditions, usage, and the quality of the frame materials. Frames made from galvanized steel or stainless steel tend to have longer lifespans due to their resistance to corrosion and wear. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning, lubrication of hardware, and periodic checks for rust or damage, can help extend their life even further.

How are hollow metal doors frames installed?

Hollow metal door frames are typically installed in the following steps:

1. Preparation of the Opening: The first step in installing a hollow metal door frame is preparing the wall or partition where the frame will be placed. It’s essential to ensure the opening is square and level so the frame fits properly. This preparation ensures the door will operate smoothly once installed.
2. Frame Positioning: The hollow metal frame is then positioned into the prepared opening. It must be aligned with the floor, ceiling, and sides of the wall to ensure it is square and level. Proper alignment is crucial for the functionality and aesthetics of the finished installation.
3. Anchoring the Frame: Once positioned, the frame is secured using anchors or fasteners, which are either welded or drilled into the surrounding wall or masonry. In drywall installations, the frame is typically secured with screws or toggle bolts. These anchors hold the frame firmly in place, ensuring stability.
4. Shimming for Alignment: If necessary, shims are placed behind the frame to ensure it remains square and plumb during installation. Shimming guarantees that the frame stays level, which is essential for proper door function after the installation is complete.
5. Securing the Frame to the Wall: With the frame aligned, it is further secured to the wall or surrounding structure using additional fasteners or anchor bolts. This may involve welding or using screws, depending on the material of the wall. Proper fastening ensures the frame remains stable and secure over time.
6. Sealing and Finishing: After securing the frame, any gaps between the frame and the wall are sealed with caulking or a similar material. This step prevents drafts, moisture, and pests from entering. Once sealed, finishing touches such as trim, paint, or other aesthetic details are applied to complete the installation.
7. Installing the Door and Hardware: Finally, the door itself is installed along with any necessary hardware, such as locks, hinges, and door closers. This completes the installation process, leaving you with a fully functional and secure hollow metal door frame.

Are hollow metal door frames customizable?

Yes, hollow metal door frames are highly customizable to meet specific needs and design preferences. They can be made in various sizes and shapes to fit non-standard door openings or custom wall thicknesses, ensuring a perfect fit for any building or project.

Additionally, hollow metal frames can be finished in a variety of ways, including powder coating, enamel, or galvanized finishes. These finishes not only enhance the frame’s appearance but also provide resistance to corrosion, making them suitable for different environments.

For added strength or security, extra reinforcements can be incorporated into the frame. This is particularly useful in high-security areas or locations that require enhanced protection. Moreover, the frame can be prepped to accommodate various hardware options, such as locks, closers, panic bars, or access control systems, to suit the specific requirements of the building.

Hollow metal frames can also be custom-designed to meet fire protection standards, with fire-rated options available. Finally, the frame profile can be adjusted, and decorative features can be added, allowing the frame to match the building’s overall aesthetic and branding.

Do hollow metal door frames require a lot of maintenance?

​​No, hollow metal door frames generally require very little maintenance. These frames are known for their durability and resistance to damage from impact, moisture, and pests, making them ideal for high-traffic and industrial environments. However, to ensure they maintain their strength and appearance over time, occasional maintenance is necessary.

Basic care includes regular cleaning to remove dirt, debris, and moisture that could lead to rust or corrosion. If the frame is exposed to harsh weather conditions or in an environment with high humidity, it’s important to inspect for signs of rust or other damage and treat it promptly. Additionally, checking for any loose hardware (such as hinges or locks) and ensuring the frame remains properly aligned with the door is recommended.

If the frame has a painted or coated finish, you may need to reapply the finish periodically to protect the frame from the elements, especially if it shows signs of wear. Other than that, hollow metal door frames are low-maintenance and provide reliable performance for many years with minimal upkeep.

If you are in need of commercial metal door frames, take a look here: Metal Door Frames

You can also take a look at our many commercial door options here: Commercial Doors