What should I send you before the first visit?
Clear photos/videos of the door and frame, approximate size, building address, access hours, and any deadlines. If you know the hardware brand/model, include that too.
Can you help with insurance claims after door damage?
Yes. We provide written estimates, invoices, before/after photos, and scope notes that you can submit to your insurer. We’ll also clarify cause of damage when possible.
Do you offer preventive maintenance plans for multi-site portfolios?
We do. Plans include scheduled inspections, lubrication and alignment, hardware checks, and a prioritized punch list—rolled up into portfolio reports for property managers.
How do I know if my fire door has the correct label and paperwork?
Look for a visible fire label on the door and frame and confirm hardware is listed for fire use. We can inspect, document gaps, and propose code-appropriate corrections.
What’s the difference between tempered, laminated, and insulated glass units?
Tempered = safety glass that shatters into small pieces; laminated = two panes with an interlayer for security and sound; IGUs = two panes with a spacer for energy performance.
How can entries be made more energy-efficient without a full remodel?
Tighten seals and thresholds, calibrate door closers, fix alignment, and consider vestibule strategies where feasible. Small upgrades often deliver big comfort gains.
How long do common door parts typically last in Chicago’s climate?
Usage and exposure matter, but closers/pivots often run several years with tune-ups; weather seals may need seasonal checks; exterior steel components require rust vigilance.
What are typical lead times for stock vs. custom doors and hardware?
Stock sizes and standard hardware are usually quickest; custom sizes, special finishes, or fire labels take longer. We’ll quote both timelines so you can plan.
What safety measures do you follow while working on site?
Technicians use PPE, set cones/barriers, secure the opening during work, and coordinate with building staff to protect tenants, customers, and egress paths.
Can you coordinate building access with security or management?
Yes. We work with your front desk or security for keys/badges, loading dock scheduling, elevator access, and escort requirements.
What kind of documentation do you deliver after service?
A service report with findings, actions taken, parts used, and recommendations—plus photos on request. For projects, we provide submittals and finish details as needed.
Will new door hardware void any warranties if we adjust it ourselves?
DIY adjustments can affect coverage. Tell us the symptoms; we’ll advise safe checks and schedule professional adjustments to keep warranties intact.
How do you minimize noise, dust, and disruption during work?
We use clean work practices, protect adjacent finishes, stage tools outside traffic lanes, and can perform noisy tasks during off-peak hours.
What payment methods and terms do you offer for businesses?
We accept common business payment methods and can set up approved terms for repeat clients or portfolios—ask our team during your quote.
What’s included in a door health check during maintenance?
We review alignment, clearances, latching, closer settings (sweep/latch/backcheck), hardware wear, weather barriers, and note emerging issues before they cause downtime.
Any winterization tips for Chicago entries?
Replace tired seals, verify threshold contact, adjust closer speeds for cold temps, and check for heaving or frost that can misalign frames and latches.
How do you prioritize repairs if our budget is limited this quarter?
We separate life-safety and security items first, then operational reliability, then cosmetic/efficiency upgrades—so you get the most impact per dollar.
Can you work with our IT/security vendor on access systems without replacing doors?
Yes. We coordinate wiring paths, device prep, and hardware compatibility so your access control upgrades integrate cleanly with existing openings.