Mistakes to Avoid in Automatic Sliding Doors
Automatic sliding doors have become a modern staple in commercial, residential, and institutional spaces — offering a sleek look, touchless entry, and improved accessibility. But while the benefits are many, these systems can only perform optimally when installed correctly. Unfortunately, improper installation is more common than most people realize and often leads to operational failure, safety risks, or expensive repairs.
If you’re planning to install an automatic sliding door, it’s essential to avoid the following common mistakes during the setup process.
Choosing the Wrong Type of Door System
Every building has unique requirements based on traffic volume, door width, security needs, and environmental exposure. One of the most frequent mistakes is selecting a basic or underpowered sliding door system for high-traffic areas like malls or hospitals. This can result in excessive wear and tear or complete mechanical failure within a short period.
Improper Sensor Positioning
The automation in sliding doors depends heavily on sensor sensitivity and accuracy. If sensors are installed too low, too high, or too close to surrounding walls or decor, the door may fail to detect movement or open unnecessarily, wasting energy.
Proper alignment and angle of approach are key to ensuring reliable sensor activation without false triggers or safety issues. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for mounting and calibration.
Uneven or Poorly Levelled Tracks
Automatic sliding doors operate on guided tracks. If the tracks are misaligned or the floor is uneven, the doors may drag, become noisy, or malfunction entirely. Inconsistent movement also increases wear on the motor and gear system.
Neglecting Safety Features
Automatic doors should include built-in safety mechanisms like obstruction detection, soft-close functions, and emergency breakaway systems. Failing to install these features can pose serious risks, especially in spaces frequented by children, elderly individuals, or people with disabilities.
Safety compliance with standards such as ISO or EN should never be compromised during installation planning.
Skipping Electrical Preparedness
Many installers ignore the importance of dedicated electrical connections, proper grounding, or the need for backup power. Power failures without an emergency override system can leave entrances inoperable and unsafe.
All electrical elements should be planned with safety cutoffs, voltage stabilization, and an optional UPS system to keep doors functional during outages.
Overlooking Environmental Impact
External installations are exposed to dust, rain, heat, and wind — all of which can interfere with sensor performance and wear out the components. Lack of environmental shielding or weatherproof materials can result in frequent malfunctions.
Installing proper canopies, windbreaks, and drainage systems is critical to the long-term performance of automatic sliding doors placed in outdoor or semi-open locations.
Final Thought: Precision Matters More Than the Product
Automatic sliding doors are a smart upgrade for any space — but their performance depends not just on the technology, but on how well they’re installed. From proper levelling and sensor calibration to safety compliance and long-term maintenance planning, every detail counts. By avoiding these common mistakes and choosing expert support, you ensure the door functions smoothly, safely, and efficiently. For dependable installation and service, Glass Decors stands as a trusted name delivering quality with precision.
Role of Glass Decors
When it comes to automatic sliding door systems, expert installation and support make all the difference. Glass Decors brings decades of experience in handling high-performance automated doors across commercial, residential, and institutional environments. From selecting the right system to precision installation, their team ensures alignment, sensor accuracy, safety compliance, and electrical integration — all with minimal disruption.
Ensure smooth, safe, and long-lasting performance for your automatic sliding doors — talk to the specialists at Glass Decors today.
