Creating an accessible environment is more than a legal obligation—it’s a commitment to inclusion and equal opportunity. Whether you’re welcoming customers, employees, or guests, ADA-compliant commercial doors help ensure that every person can access and navigate your space with ease.
For businesses throughout Jacksonville, Northeast Florida, and Southern Georgia, evaluating both interior and exterior doors for ADA compliance is a smart move that can improve safety, functionality, and public perception.
Understanding ADA Door Requirements
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets clear standards for accessible design, and that includes commercial doors—regardless of whether they’re inside or outside your facility. Here’s what you need to know:
- Clear Opening Width: A minimum of 32 inches of clear space is required when the door is open 90 degrees. This applies to main entrances, restroom doors, break rooms, and more.
- Threshold Height: For both interior and exterior doors, thresholds must not exceed 1/2 inch in height. If they’re taller than 1/4 inch, they need to be beveled for easy passage.
- Hardware Requirements: Handles, pulls, latches, and locks must be usable with one hand and without tight grasping or twisting. ADA-compliant hardware must be mounted 34–48 inches above the finished floor.
- Opening Force: Interior doors should require no more than 5 pounds of force to open. While exterior doors are allowed to require more force (due to weatherproofing and security), they should still be easy to operate.
- Door Closers: Door closers must take at least 5 seconds to close from a 90-degree open position to 12 degrees from latch.
- Maneuvering Clearance: Doors must have enough space on either side for a wheelchair to approach, turn, and exit safely.
Interior and Exterior Doors Matter
Both types of doors play a vital role in ensuring your facility meets ADA guidelines:
- Interior Doors: Restroom entries, office doors, break room entrances, and hallway access points must all meet ADA specs to ensure usability by all staff and visitors.
- Exterior Doors: Main building entrances, emergency exits, and service entrances also need to be accessible. These doors often require specialized ADA-compliant hardware, closers, and thresholds.
Holman, Inc. does not install aluminum storefront systems—but we do offer a wide range of Division 8 compliant exterior doors that meet both functional and aesthetic needs for your building.
Why Upgrade to ADA-Compliant Doors?
Beyond staying on the right side of regulations, ADA-compliant doors offer key benefits:
- Improved Access for Everyone: Thoughtful, barrier-free access isn’t just good practice—it’s good business.
- Reduced Legal Risk: Ensuring ADA compliance protects you from costly fines or lawsuits stemming from non-compliance.
- Enhanced Reputation: Customers and employees appreciate businesses that prioritize inclusion and accessibility.
- Expanded Reach: With improved accessibility, your facility becomes more welcoming to a wider range of visitors and clients.
Smart Compliance Upgrades
Looking to improve your ADA accessibility? Here are a few upgrade options to consider for both interiors and exteriors:
- Lever-Style Handles instead of knobs for easier grip and operation.
- Low-Profile or Beveled Thresholds that minimize tripping hazards while still keeping weather out on exterior doors.
- Automatic Door Openers for high-traffic restrooms, meeting rooms, or back entrances.
- Adjustable Door Closers to meet ADA timing and force requirements.
- Fire-Rated ADA Doors that meet both safety and accessibility codes.
Consulting with professionals experienced in ADA compliance can provide tailored solutions for your specific needs.
Your Partner in ADA Compliance in Jacksonville
At Holman, Inc., we specialize in helping Northeast Florida businesses meet accessibility standards with Division 8 commercial door solutions. Whether you’re installing new doors, upgrading old ones, or adjusting hardware to meet ADA requirements, we’re here to help.
We don’t do aluminum storefronts—but we do offer durable, code-compliant doors for a wide range of commercial applications, both inside and out. From schools and healthcare facilities to office buildings and industrial spaces, Holman has the expertise to ensure your doors are as inclusive as your business philosophy.
Ready to upgrade your doors for ADA compliance?
Contact Holman, Inc. today—we’ll help you find the right solutions to keep your space accessible, safe, and up to code.