Commercial metal door frames are durable, fire-rated frames typically made from steel, designed to support doors in high-traffic or industrial environments such as offices, schools, hospitals, and warehouses. They provide structural integrity, security, and resistance to wear, fire, and impact. These frames are often used with hollow metal doors and come in various profiles (like knock-down frames or welded frames) to suit different installation needs and wall types, including drywall, masonry, or stud construction.
What are commercial metal door frames made of?
Commercial metal door frames are typically made of cold-rolled steel or galvanized steel. Cold-rolled steel offers a smooth finish and is commonly used for interior applications, while galvanized steel is coated with zinc for corrosion resistance, making it ideal for exterior or high-moisture environments. In some specialty cases, stainless steel may be used for enhanced durability and hygiene, such as in healthcare or food processing facilities.
Where are commercial metal frames typically used?
Commercial metal door frames are typically used in high-traffic, high-security, or code-compliant buildings, including:
- Office buildings
- Schools and universities
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Warehouses and factories
- Retail stores and shopping centers
- Government and military buildings
- Apartment complexes and hotels
They are favored for their strength, fire resistance, and compatibility with various wall types and security hardware.
Are commercial metal frames fire-rated?
Yes, many commercial metal door frames are fire-rated, meaning they are tested and certified to resist fire for a specific period (commonly 20, 45, 60, 90, or 180 minutes) depending on building codes and application requirements. Fire-rated frames are constructed to meet standards set by organizations like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or Intertek (Warnock Hersey) and are typically installed with fire-rated doors and hardware to form a complete fire-resistant assembly.
What types of metal door frames are available?
Welded and knock-down (KD) metal door frames are the most popular types of metal frames used in commercial construction. Welded frames are preferred for durability, strength, and fire-rated assemblies, especially in masonry walls or high-traffic areas. KD frames are popular for drywall applications, easier shipping, and quicker on-site assembly, making them a go-to for interior partitions and light commercial projects.
Welded metal door frames are factory-assembled with corners that are fully welded and ground smooth for a seamless, rigid structure. Known for their strength and durability, welded frames are ideal for high-traffic or heavy-use areas such as schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings with masonry or block walls. They provide a clean, finished look with minimal field assembly, reducing the chances of misalignment during installation. Welded frames are often required for fire-rated applications due to their structural integrity and code compliance.
Knock-down (KD) metal door frames, on the other hand, are shipped in three separate pieces (two jambs and a head) that are assembled on-site. These frames are well-suited for drywall partitions or light commercial construction and are popular due to their ease of transport and lower shipping costs. KD frames are convenient for new builds or renovation projects where access might be limited. While not as rigid as welded frames, they are a practical and cost-effective solution when properly installed and anchored. Both KD drywall frames and KD masonry frames are available.
Together, these two types of metal frames cover the majority of commercial use cases, offering flexibility for both new construction and retrofits.
Can metal door frames be used with drywall or masonry walls?
Yes, metal door frames can be used with both drywall and masonry walls, and specific frame types are designed to accommodate each application. For drywall construction, knock-down (KD) frames or slip-on (wrap-around) frames are most commonly used. These frames are designed to fit over metal or wood studs and can be installed after the drywall is in place, making them ideal for interior walls in office buildings, schools, and other light commercial settings. Their ease of installation and adjustability make them a popular choice for contractors working on fast-paced projects.
For masonry walls, such as those made of concrete, block, or brick, welded metal frames are typically the preferred option. These frames are set in place during the wall construction process and anchored directly into the masonry, providing a secure and long-lasting installation. Welded frames offer superior strength and are often required for fire-rated openings or high-traffic areas where durability is critical. With the right anchors and profiles, metal door frames can be effectively installed in both types of wall construction.