In commercial and industrial construction, few components are as crucial as the door frame. These structural elements provide essential support, security, and functionality for the entire door assembly, ensuring smooth operation and safety. Let’s delve into the specific features, applications, and benefits of choosing steel for your openings.
Welded frames are crafted from steel sections meticulously welded together, forming a single, robust unit. This construction method guarantees unparalleled structural integrity, stability, and durability, rendering welded frames ideal for heavy-duty applications and areas experiencing high foot traffic.
On the other hand, knock down (KD) frames offer flexibility in installation and transportation. Comprising separate components like jambs, headers, and sills, KD frames are assembled on-site using mechanical fasteners such as screws or rivets. This versatility makes them suitable for projects constrained by space or where pre-assembled frames aren’t easily transportable.
When choosing between welded and knock-down, it’s important to consider the application. Welded frames are the industry standard for high-security areas and openings that require a certified fire rated assembly, as they provide maximum structural integrity. For projects where steel doors and frames need to be installed after the walls are finished, knock-down frames offer greater flexibility.
The stop, a vertical projection along the inside edge of the frame, plays a pivotal role in sealing the gap between the door and frame, thereby preventing drafts, sound transmission, and light infiltration. Meanwhile, the face, the visible front surface of the frame, contributes to the space’s aesthetic appeal with embossed patterns, grooves, or finishes.
Additionally, the soffit, the horizontal surface above the door opening, provides structural support and aids in distributing the load of the frame and door assembly to the surrounding structure. The throat, determining the frame’s depth from the face to the soffit, accommodates door thickness and hardware requirements, ensuring a seamless fit.
Beyond the basic shape, technical specifications like jamb depths are critical for ensuring a perfect fit with your wall thickness. Proper frame anchors must also be used to match the wall construction, whether it’s masonry, wood, or metal stud. These details ensure the frame is not just a placeholder, but a secure, integrated part of the wall system.
The hinge jamb, where hinges are installed to attach the door, ensures support and stability for the door assembly, facilitating smooth operation. Conversely, the strike jamb, located opposite the hinge jamb, hosts the lockset or latchbolt, providing secure locking and latching of the door while potentially incorporating reinforcements for added security and resistance to forced entry.
The header, positioned horizontally above the door opening, shoulders the weight of the frame and door assembly, distributing the load to adjacent walls. Reinforcements or anchors may be integrated into the header to secure the frame to the surrounding structure effectively.
Hollow metal door frames find application across various wall types, including masonry walls (concrete block, brick, or stone), metal stud walls (light-gauge steel), and wood stud walls. Each wall type offers unique benefits, such as solid support and stability, flexibility in installation, or compatibility with a wide array of construction materials and techniques.
"We needed fire-rated frames for our new facility in Youngstown, and Prime-Door delivered. The quality was excellent and the technical knowledge of their team was a huge help in making sure we got the right jamb depths and anchors for our walls. Highly recommend."
- John M., Facility Manager
Contact Prime Door today for top-quality commercial hollow metal door frame products that deliver durability, security, versatility, and precision. Our expert team ensures you receive reliable, high-performance solutions tailored to your needs. With unmatched product quality, professional support, and competitive pricing, Prime Door is your trusted partner for long-lasting doors and frames solutions in any commercial or industrial setting.
Hollow metal door frames serve as indispensable components in the construction of commercial and industrial spaces. Whether welded or knock down, these frames provide the necessary support, security, and functionality required for door assemblies in demanding environments. With their diverse features, compatibility with different wall types, and adherence to stringent performance standards, hollow metal door frames ensure reliable performance and peace of mind for building occupants and stakeholders alike.