Building entrances are exposed to the elements more than almost any other part of a property. Every day, they face changing weather conditions that place continuous stress on materials, mechanisms, and structural components. While entrances are designed to be robust, prolonged exposure to wind, rain, moisture, and temperature fluctuations can gradually reduce performance and shorten lifespan if not properly managed.
Understanding how weather affects entrance systems is essential for maintaining reliability, safety, and appearance over time.
The Effect of Wind on Entrance Systems
Wind places constant pressure on entrance doors, particularly in exposed locations or taller buildings. Strong gusts can force doors beyond their intended operating range, placing strain on hinges, pivots, closers, and automated mechanisms. Over time, this repeated stress can lead to misalignment, accelerated wear, and inconsistent operation.
For automatic and revolving entrances, wind pressure can interfere with sensors and control systems, causing doors to hesitate, fail to close correctly, or operate unpredictably. Even manual doors can become difficult to control, increasing the risk of impact damage to glazing and frames.
Without regular inspection and adjustment, wind related stress often goes unnoticed until a failure occurs.
Rain, Moisture, and Water Ingress Risks
Rainwater is one of the most persistent threats to entrance longevity. Poor drainage, worn seals, or minor installation imperfections can allow moisture to penetrate frames, tracks, and internal components. Once inside, water can cause corrosion, swelling, and degradation of materials.
Metal components such as fixings, rollers, and structural supports are particularly vulnerable to corrosion when exposed to repeated moisture. Timber elements can absorb water, leading to warping or softening, while seals and gaskets may lose elasticity, reducing weather resistance and energy efficiency.
Moisture buildup can also affect floor finishes and surrounding façade elements, creating slip hazards and increasing maintenance requirements at ground level.
Temperature Changes and Material Movement
Temperature fluctuations cause materials to expand and contract. Over time, this natural movement can affect alignment, tolerances, and the smooth operation of entrance systems. Glass, aluminium, steel, and composite materials all respond differently to temperature changes, which can place stress on joints and fixings.
In colder conditions, lubricants can thicken, causing mechanisms to stiffen or operate less efficiently. In warmer weather, components may expand, leading to increased friction or difficulty closing. Automated systems are particularly sensitive, as even small changes can affect calibration and performance.
When temperature related movement is not accounted for through maintenance and adjustment, minor issues can develop into mechanical failures.
The Hidden Impact on Performance and Safety
Weather related wear does not always present itself immediately. Entrances may continue to function, but with reduced efficiency, increased noise, or subtle resistance during operation. These early signs are often overlooked, yet they indicate growing strain within the system.
Reduced performance can compromise accessibility, security, and safety. Doors that fail to close correctly may affect building climate control, while inconsistent operation can increase the risk of user injury or emergency access issues.
From a visual perspective, weather damage can also detract from the appearance of the entrance, creating a worn or poorly maintained impression at the most visible point of the building.
Why Proactive Care Makes the Difference
Reactive repairs often address symptoms rather than causes. By the time an entrance fails, weather exposure has usually been affecting the system for months or even years. Proactive care focuses on identifying and addressing wear before it escalates.
Regular inspection, cleaning, lubrication, and adjustment allow entrance systems to adapt to seasonal changes and continued exposure. Seals can be replaced before water ingress occurs, mechanisms can be realigned before excessive wear develops, and materials can be protected against corrosion and degradation.
This approach not only extends the lifespan of the entrance but also ensures consistent performance, improved safety, and lower long term costs.
Supporting Entrances Built to Perform
Entrances are the first point of interaction between a building and its users. They must perform reliably in all conditions while maintaining a strong visual impression. Weather will always be a factor, but its impact does not need to be damaging.
Open Entrances supports building owners and facilities teams by delivering entrance solutions designed with performance, durability, and longevity in mind. Through informed design, quality installation, and proactive maintenance, entrance systems can withstand the challenges of changing weather while continuing to operate smoothly and safely.
Caring for entrances before problems arise protects not just the system itself, but the experience of everyone who passes through it.
