Everything about a sectional door

The sectional door, which opens and closes so effortlessly today, is actually an invention with a long development and an interesting history. Its current form is a response to society's growing demands and technological advancements.

It all began in the first half of the 20th century. Back then, garage doors were typically heavy and cumbersome, requiring a large amount of space to open. In 1921, engineer C.J. Johnson attempted to solve this problem in a completely new way. His idea was to create a door assembled from individual panels – when lifted, these sections would fold horizontally and be stored parallel to the ceiling on special guide tracks. Initially, this invention had two main advantages: it saved space and was more convenient.

Johnson proved to be not only a shrewd inventor but also a good marketer. To introduce his innovation to a wider audience, he mounted a functional miniature model of the sectional door on the bed of a truck. Then, with this "mobile showroom," he traveled across America, presenting his invention at auto shows, construction exhibitions, and home presentations. The results were swift – the sectional doors quickly became popular.

The next significant stage in the development of the sectional door was the integration of an operating mechanism. This made using the door even more comfortable – with a single press of a button, it would open and close automatically.

Simultaneously, materials were changing and improving. Initially, wood was used because it was a more accessible material. From the mid-20th century, metal sectional doors, specifically steel and aluminum, appeared on the market. One was sturdier, while the other was lighter and more resistant to corrosion. Later, their production began with composites as well – doors made of fiberglass and vinyl wouldn't scratch, crack, or fade.

Thus, gradually, as a result of continuous research and improvement, the sectional door transformed into the high-tech, safe, and comfortable product it is today, offering numerous advantages.

Why Sectional Door — Its Main Advantages

Sectional doors are widely used for both private and commercial purposes, and their advantages dictate this. For example, the vertical opening mechanism doesn't occupy interior or exterior space and stores parallel to the ceiling. As a result, unlike traditional doors, it doesn't require additional room when opening and closing, even allowing for parking a car close to the door.

High levels of security are ensured by a robust, multi-panel construction and modern, multi-point locking systems. Products from some manufacturers, such as Hörmann, comply with the RC2 security standard (EN 1627). This means the door has been tested and can withstand attempts at forced entry for approximately 3 minutes using basic tools like screwdrivers, pliers, etc. This time is entirely sufficient for security services to respond.

Furthermore, thermal insulation and energy efficiency are benefits particularly valuable when using sectional doors in warehousing. Panels filled with thermal insulation material reduce energy loss from the interior space and help maintain a stable climate. This factor is critically important for storing products—such as food or pharmaceuticals—that are sensitive to changes in temperature. The sectional doors we offer, with panels up to 67 mm thick and special thermal breaks, provide exceptional results in terms of thermal insulation, confirmed by a low heat transfer coefficient (U-Value down to 0.33 W/(m²·K)).

Long-term operation is achieved through corrosion-resistant materials (galvanized steel, aluminum) and mechanisms designed for intensive use. For example, Hörmann doors are tested for over 25,000 opening and closing cycles. Along with functionality, a wide range of models (panel design, texture, color) allows the door to visually match the building's architectural style.

Automation makes using the door much more convenient—it's easy to control with remote controls, wall buttons, and other systems. Modern operating mechanisms, like Hörmann's WA 500 FU, move the door quickly (up to 1 m/s) and smoothly. Additionally, the modular construction significantly simplifies maintenance and repair: a damaged panel can be replaced without dismantling the entire door.

Consequently, the sectional door is a technologically and functionally sound device that suits various types of properties in terms of safety, energy efficiency, durability, and comfort.

Where and Why Are Sectional Doors Used?

Sectional doors, thanks to their unique construction and numerous advantages, are ubiquitous today, found in private homes, apartment complexes, and vast industrial facilities alike. Let's delve deeper into where and why this type of door is chosen.

Residential Sector

In residential settings, sectional doors excel at saving space in private home garages and apartment building parking lots. They enhance security for both families and property, and with their modern design, they add an aesthetically appealing look to any building.

Commercial Sector

For the commercial sector, sectional doors stand out for their multifunctionality, addressing diverse business needs. For instance, in warehouses and logistics centers, they facilitate the uninterrupted movement of goods. In auto service centers, repair shops, and car washes, sectional doors are known for their durability against intensive daily use and specific conditions such as high humidity and temperature fluctuations.

Industrial Sector

In environments where exceptional strength, safety, and resistance to prolonged, intensive loads are paramount, sectional doors are virtually indispensable. Factories, production lines, and large logistics hubs specifically utilize constructions designed for such demanding conditions.

Despite their many advantages, it's important to note that under conditions of extremely high cyclicity (very frequent opening and closing) or in particularly aggressive industrial environments (e.g., constant exposure to chemically active substances), the capabilities of a sectional door might differ. In such cases, it's advisable to consult with the K2 team.

Sectional Door Operation, Safety, and Maintenance

For your sectional door to function reliably and last for a long time, proper use, safety precautions, and regular maintenance are essential. Following these simple tips will significantly extend your door's lifespan.

Tips for Proper Operation

Before opening a manual sectional door, always ensure that all mechanical locks are disengaged. Then, lift the door completely and evenly, without applying excessive force. When closing, lower it evenly and slowly, making sure it's securely locked.

If your sectional door includes a small, built-in pedestrian door, always ensure this smaller door is fully closed and locked before operating the main sectional door. This simple action will protect the mechanisms of both the sectional and built-in doors from damage.

Always operate an automatic sectional door using its designated controls (remote control, wall button, keypad, etc.). Avoid forcing it open or closed manually unless specifically intended for an emergency override. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the manufacturer's instructions and the door's safety features.

Safety Tips

The door's movement area (the opening itself and its surrounding trajectory) should always be clear of anything that might obstruct its movement or cause damage.

Never attempt to operate a damaged door (e.g., crooked, jammed, making unusual noises). This is dangerous and/or could indicate a more serious underlying problem. In such cases, immediately contact qualified specialists.

Exercise extreme caution with the door's springs and cables. These components operate under high tension. If they are damaged or broken, it is absolutely forbidden to attempt to repair or replace them yourself—this is very dangerous and could result in serious injury.

Regular Maintenance for Long-Term Operation

Periodically (e.g., once a month), carefully inspect the door panels, tracks, rollers, locks, and other visible parts. Pay attention to potential mechanical damage (e.g., cracks, deformation), signs of corrosion, unusual noises during operation, or difficulty in movement.

For the smooth operation of an automatic door, it's recommended to check its balance monthly. After temporarily disconnecting the drive mechanism, the door should move easily and evenly by hand. Also, ensure that the automatic safety systems are functioning correctly: check if the door responds to an obstruction by automatically stopping and reversing.

Once or twice a year (or as per the manufacturer's recommendations), lubricate the door's moving parts (rollers, bearings, springs—if specified in the instructions).

Professional Service – When Expert Help Is Needed

Even high-quality Hörmann doors and other equipment, despite their durability, sometimes require a professional touch. This could involve complex technical work, the repair or replacement of critical components (springs, cables, drive mechanisms), or routine inspections. In such situations, you can rest assured—the K2 team is ready to assist you promptly.

Our approach is comprehensive: we'll help you identify your business needs from the outset and assist with the selection and installation of Hörmann sectional doors or other warehouse equipment. Should any technical problem arise, our service center will respond quickly and provide qualified assistance.

Choose a standard you can trust—contact us to select the model that will become a part of your residential or warehouse space.