By Heather Bender
While sectional doors are a staple in high-ceilinged commercial spaces such as warehouses, garages, and distribution centres, historically, they have been left out of the conversation for smaller commercial applications where overhead space is limited and esthetics are important.
Today, architects and interior designers are seeing sectional doors in a new light, with the introduction of vertically stacking designs that offer windows and a compact footprint. Merging the sectional door hallmark of functional ease with modern engineering, abundant natural light, and a splash of style, these doors are opening up new possibilities for where and how a sectional door can be used.
Traditional overhead tracks versus vertical stacking
A traditional overhead sectional door comprises a series of horizontal panel sections hinged together. It operates by rolling along vertical side tracks of the opening and horizontally along the ceiling. The door is opened by a motor or by manually lifting it upwards, moving it along the tracks until it rests parallel to the ceiling.
For example, for a standard overhead sectional door measuring 3.66 x 4.27 m (12 x 14 ft), the necessary ceiling space includes two key dimensions. First, the vertical clearance dimension, known as headroom, generally requires 406 to 457 mm (16 to 18 in.) above the door opening. This space accommodates the track radius and torsion springs, allowing the door to move upward and slide below the ceiling. Second, the horizontal clearance dimension, or backroom, must be equal to the full height of the door plus an additional 450 to 600 mm (17 to 23 in.). A 4.27-m (14-ft)-high door requires 4.85 to 4.9 m (15.92 to 16.17 ft) of horizontal space along the ceiling for the door to full retract when opened.
In smaller commercial spaces that cater to the public, the amount of space required for standard overhead sectional doors can be undesirable for many reasons. Sufficient headroom, for instance, is often hard to come by in areas with standard-height ceilings. Likewise, the backroom requirements for a door significantly reduce usable ceiling space for systems such as lighting, HVAC, or sprinkler system, as well as the architectural elements and decorative features that make public commercial spaces inviting.
Vertically stacking sectional doors address ceiling space limitations common in smaller commercial projects. Instead of requiring space in the ceiling occupied by a full door when open, vertically stacking doors require only minimal space directly above the door opening, which avoids having the door hang above patrons.
Currently available vertically stacking designs require as little as 684 mm (27 in.) of headroom. Some models even offer an option to recess the sections into a compartment in the ceiling, keeping them discreetly out of sight when open. By eliminating the need for horizontal tracks and hinges, these doors provide a cleaner, sleeker look while freeing up valuable space for mechanical, electrical, and fire extinguishing systems or interior design elements.
Smart about more than space
Though primarily engineered to open up space without taking up ceiling space, vertically stacking sectional doors have also stepped up esthetics. Offering full-view models with top-to-bottom windows and finishes, they are now equipped to complement various architectural and interior design styles. The uncluttered look of no hinges and a concealed track enhances the simplicity and elegance of the opening. This allows designers to expand interior areas to the outdoors and capture more revenue-generating space. Among the many benefits vertically stacking doors provide, those receiving the most attention in commercial applications are:
Abundant natural light
Vertically stacking doors, with full-view sections mostly made of glazing, allow natural light to flood interior spaces, which is a desirable feature in many commercial contexts. Natural light can create brighter, more invigorating environments that improve mood and productivity, and it can reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day, thus lowering energy costs.
Flexible, streamlined workflows
In commercial enterprises, such as restaurants that merge indoor and outdoor spaces, personnel can quickly and easily open a vertically stacking door to accommodate fluctuations in customer volume and streamline workflows into different areas. The large opening created when the door is raised allows staff to monitor indoor and outdoor activities while keeping high-traffic areas open and free-flowing.
Energy efficiency
In southern provinces where commercial spaces experience both cooling and heating seasons, vertically stacking sectional doors are available with built-in gaskets between sections that reduce air infiltration and keep indoor conditions consistent and comfortable when the door is closed. Polyurethane insulated rails and stiles are another option. Selecting insulated glass or Low-E glass panels for full-view models can further enhance energy performance, making this door a smart choice for businesses looking to add unique style and operational flexibility.
Safety and security
The visibility provided by a full-view vertically stacking door plays an important role in its operation by allowing a user to easily see who or what is nearby before operating the door. Other safety features include a photo eye sensor concealed in the guide cover, a wireless sensing edge, a strap brake safety system, and a UL325-approved light curtain that prevents damage to objects in the door’s pathway and protects the door itself. For weather safety in high wind areas, models with wind load protection up to 1,197 Pa (25 psf) are available. To secure property after hours, section locking devices are standard.
Glass, paint, and finish options
The sections in full-view stacking sectional doors offer various glazing panel materials, including tempered, insulated, frosted, and Low-E glass or acrylic glazing, with customizable thickness options. For aluminum components, anodized finishes in clear, black, and bronze and paint finish in colours such as chocolate, white, and bronze provide a neutral palette to complement broader design choices and other architectural elements.
For commercial design professionals across southern Canada, vertically stacking sectional doors provide a design solution for creating flexible spaces. By increasing natural light, streamlining workflows, and supporting energy efficiency, safety, and security, they also solve other important challenges. As businesses increasingly seek versatility in architectural solutions, commercial door manufacturers will undoubtedly continue to rise to the challenge with creative ways to open up space and possibilities for everyone.
Author
Heather Bender is the director of commercial product marketing at Clopay Corporation, with 16 years of experience in manufacturing and building materials. Excelling in product management, she adeptly handles product inception to commercialization. Her role involves finding unique solutions for building owners and designers, highlighting her strategic and innovative approach to complex industry challenges. Bender can be contacted at hbender@clopay.com.
