Exterior Door Closer Installation: Can You Install a Door Closer Outdoors?
Introduction
A number of factors must be taken into consideration when installing a door closer for external doors in order to enhance performance and safety. Even though the process may look simple at a glance, the correct installation methods and the locations of these devices in relation to one another can determine how secure these fundamental devices are and their functionality over time.
The most practical aspect of external door closer installation for most practitioners and property owners is understanding its technicalities. This guide provides step-by-step procedures to help you address the most common issues related to the installation of door closers on external doors, including positioning, types of mounting, and the product to be used.
If the door type and its needs allow it, door closers can be fitted in many places. The common positions for fitting can be grouped into:
Top jamb mount (on the horizontal member supporting the door frame)
Regular arm mount (on the side where the door is pulled open)
Parallel arm mount (on the push side of the door)
Track mount (to enhance certain applications)
Can a door closer be installed outside?
As per the specialists in the industry, while it is technically possible to install a door closer outside, it is not recommended at all. There are many considerable factors.
Weather Exposure: External mounting means that the door closer is always susceptible to weather and other conditions which severely diminish its life span.
Security Concerns: Installation to the exterior also puts the closer at risk of vandalism.
Safety Risks: The external mounting of the door closer may interfere with the efficient working and safety features of the door.
Warranty Implications: It is common for manufacturers to void their warranties when the door closer is mounted externally.
Key Installation Considerations
A door closer for exterior doors should also take into account the following critical considerations:
Mounting Location
Install on the interior side of the door
The mountings should be positioned based on the door orientation.
Do not forget to take clearance into account when making your plans.
Door Type and Weight
The size of the closer should be suitable to the other door specifications.
Environmental considerations should be made.
Consider frequency of use
Safety Features
Having proper means of adjusting the speed
Back-check against wind pressure conditions
Temperature-resistant parts
Compliance Requirements
Requirements of the ADA accessibility standards
Conditions of fire safety
Building code requirements
Professional Tip: For exterior doors, consider using door closers with heavy-duty specifications that can work well under high usage and variable weather conditions; these should also be installed on the inner side of the door.
Key Considerations for Outdoor Door Closer Installation
Weather Protection and Durability
The installation of door closers on exterior doors is notable for certain factors that may affect performance and durability. Exposure to climate conditions introduces factors that cause:
Accelerated wear and corrosion
Hydraulics present in the internals being damaged
Reduced closing force consistency
Failure of the mechanical system
Security and Safety Concerns
When looking at the use of exterior-mounted door closers, security features are one of the primary concerns. Outdoor mounting can:
Make the closer vulnerable to tampering
Contribute to forced entry points
Interfere with emergency exit provisions
Amplify liability risks
Installation Best Practices
To achieve maximum efficiency and durability, adhere to the following best-practice installation principles:
Proper Positioning
If possible, mount on the inside
Ensure adequate clearance for full door swing
Look into the flow of traffic movements.
Hardware Selection
Use corrosion-resistant fasteners
Purchase the right brackets to mount the structure
Pick up the right size closer as per the weight of the door
Environmental Adaptations
Use appropriate weather stripping around the door
Be mindful of the effect wind loading will have.
Keep in mind how temperatures will affect the structure.
Alternative Solutions
Where it is not practical to attach the interiors in the traditional way, use the following options:
Door closers that are mounted inside the door.
Floor-mounted closers
Models that are weatherproof and are heavy-duty.
Mounting solution that is customized.
Professional Installation Recommendations
Whenever an entry door is needed, these are the best practices recommended by the installers.
Pre-Installation Assessment
Evaluate door weight and usage patterns
Look at the frame or door’s face.
Ensure that statutory bodies’ requirements are met.
Mounting Considerations
If necessary, use reinforcement plates,
Apply locking compound to the threads.
Install proper weather seals
Adjustment and Testing
Closing speeds should be adjusted correctly
It is important that the latching action is confirmed
Assessment and adjustment of tasks from various conditions should be conducted
Expert Solutions and Recommendations
Why Some People Consider Outdoor Installation
Some property owners disregard these risks and go for outdoor door closer installation for different reasons:
Limited interior space
Aesthetic preferences
Design of the previously installed door
Needs of specific applications
However, for installation experts, it is prudent to consider other options to achieve a balance between safety and functionality.
Professional Solutions for Exterior Doors
While handling various external doors, the following recommendations have been found to be effective solutions:
Interior-Mounted Solutions
Parallel arm mounting for push-side applications
Arm mounts on top jamb for additional security
Track arm configurations for special requirements
Specialized Hardware Options
Suitable for high-traffic applications and heavy-duty close-in bodies
Mechanisms for adjusting the closing forces
Valves for temperature compensation
Expert Installation Tips
To maximize the performance of the door closer and increase its lifespan, it is recommended that the following guidelines are adhered to.
Inspect the door to ensure that it is square before proceeding with installation.
Make use of the right types of screws and plates.
Adjust closing and latching speeds carefully
Perform the task of operation in various environments while testing it simultaneously.
Conclusion
The door closers on the exterior doors must be properly installed because these are very important to the safety of the building as well as to its functionality. Though outdoor mounting may be convenient, the disadvantages that include weather exposure, compromises on security and even warranty issues make indoor mounting the best option in most situations.
In order to achieve the best results, seek professional assistance and purchase their products from established organizations such as OUDE. Many years’ experience in manufacturing door closers combined with the appropriate international certificates and full warranty provides a guarantee for the work in a tough exterior market.
