Pivot Doors

About Pivot Doors

Most hinged doors are secured at the sides of the frame. Pivot doors are not — they rotate on an axis attached to the floor and the ceiling. They are a favourite among modern homeowners and are usually included in architectural designs for high-grade, luxurious properties. 

Advantages

Pivot door systems hold significant advantages over other types, such as bifold doors or sliding doors. They are extremely elegant, thanks to the centrally-located axis on which they swing open and shut. 

They are also carefully balanced at the top and bottom of the frame. Therefore, they tend to require less effort to open and close. The easy operation is another reason they're loved among contemporary architects. Unlike bifold doors, most pivot systems open outwards and inwards, offering greater versatility than other styles. The central hinge also means that users can pass through at either side for added convenience.

Types of Pivot Doors

Pivot systems are suitable in many contexts, including pivot front doors, internal doors, cupboards, and garages. There are several types to choose from, as some might not be compatible with a property's aesthetic, width, height, location, etc.

Front Doors

Pivot front doors are a great alternative to standard front entrances. They add a welcoming feel for visitors and do a fantastic job showcasing the space in a property, giving it a modern feel with considered architecture. They can also be customized to suit particular tastes, designs, and materials.

Internal Doors

Some setups have been designed for use as an internal door between two spaces within the home. They rotate around a hinge in the middle of their base and can rotate up to 90 degrees. This allows people to pass through at either side of the hinge.

Like French doors, they boast a floor-to-ceiling height, which takes advantage of extra space in larger properties. The minimalist, functional design of a glass pivot door makes it ideal for use as a permeable barrier between ground-floor reception rooms in a modern home.

Garage Doors

Pivot garage systems add an instantly modern feel to a garage. Unlike standard garage shutters, which lack aesthetic appeal and are prone to sticking, this door elegantly swings open on its axis. They can also be motorized for remote control so that they can swing open and shut before the arrival of a car.

Materials

A range of different materials is available to suit the design of any interior. Here are a few of the most beloved options:

Wooden Pivot Doors

Wooden pivot doors are better suited in interior locations but can also be used for a patio deck, side door, etc. The polished wood brings a natural, homely feel to a property. This material is just as popular among ranch-style properties as it is in contemporary ones. 

Steel Pivot Doors

Steel pivot doors come with their own unique benefits. They have a durable metal frame that offers a secure, contemporary look to any entryway. Pivot steel doors can also come with glass accents.

Aluminium Pivot Doors

Like steel, aluminium pivot doors give a modern, sturdy look. Thanks to their durability, homeowners can expect a long lifespan, especially when compared to other materials.

Glass Pivot Doors

The glass pivot door provides an airy feel in the home and increases light in interior spaces. Another great benefit of glass pivot doors is they're incredibly easy to clean. 

Installation

Installation is slightly more complex than traditional styles, as it requires fixing hinge plates and sockets on the floor and ceiling. 

To install:

• Mark the point where the ceiling hinge plate will be fastened to the ceiling.
• Then, use a plumb bob to mark the location of the floor hinge plate. 
• Next, create a hole with a drill at the point at which the ceiling and floor hinge plates will be attached before screwing them into position. 
• Once this is done, secure the frame into position by attaching it to the hinge plates. 

Factors to Consider Before Buying

Remember that many pivot systems are designed to open in both directions. Before you purchase, ensure that there is a flat surface on either side that is free from obstructions. Uneven surfaces may not be suitable for use.

Due to the central location of the hinge, pivot systems are unsuited to narrow spaces, as they constrict the passing space available. Therefore, in many cases, they are unsuited for use as replacements to existing layouts unless they will replace an existing double door setup.

Care & Maintenance

Pivot door systems may require maintenance from time to time to keep a smooth operation. The base should be regularly cleaned to ensure that debris is not inhibiting its motion, and the hinge plates should also be regularly checked to ensure they remain fastened securely.

There will always be some care and maintenance necessary when it comes to wood or glass pivot doors. For example, wooden pivot doors are more likely to bend, shrink and warp. This occurs most regularly if there is overexposure to sunlight but can also happen due to extreme weather conditions like heavy rain. To prevent this, finish the product with multiple coats of sealant. Use sealant that contains UV protection to minimise sun exposure.

If you need assistance to find the right pivot doors for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.