How the Weather in Cincinnati Can Affect Your Commercial Doors

Cincinnati’s unpredictable weather conditions can cause significant damage to commercial doors. Fluctuating temperatures, heavy rain, strong winds, and high humidity levels affect the materials and performance of entryways, leading to costly repairs if left unaddressed. 

Understanding these effects can help businesses prevent operational issues, security risks, and increased energy costs. This guide explores how Cincinnati’s climate affects commercial doors and provides actionable solutions to mitigate damage.

What you’ll learn:

• Cincinnati’s Fluctuating Temperatures Cause Commercial Metal and Wood Doors to Expand and Contract, Affecting Their Functionality
• Heavy Rain and Moisture Lead to Rust, Warping, and Water Damage in Commercial Doors
• Strong Cincinnati Winds Can Cause Commercial Doors to Slam or Become Misaligned
• Winter Snow and Ice Cause Freezing Around Doorframes, Leading to Operational Issues
• Humidity and Temperature Changes Impact Automatic Door Sensors and Electrical Components
• Extreme Heat Can Weaken Door Insulation, Leading to Higher Energy Costs
• The Effects of Cincinnati Weather on Different Commercial Door Materials
• How to Address the Effects of Cincinnati Weather on Commercial Doors

Call 1-800-884-4440 if you have questions or need commercial door repair services in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Cincinnati’s Fluctuating Temperatures Make Commercial Metal and Wood Doors Expand and Contract

Temperature variations in Cincinnati, especially between seasons, cause materials like metal and wood to expand and contract. This continuous movement can weaken structural integrity and lead to operational inefficiencies.

How It Happens

• Metal Doors: Heat causes metal to expand, sometimes making doors difficult to close. In winter, contraction leads to misalignment with frames, causing gaps.
• Wood Doors: High humidity in summer makes wood absorb moisture, leading to swelling. Wood dries out and shrinks in colder months, leading to cracks and structural weaknesses.

Effects

• Doors that become misaligned with their frames may not close properly, compromising security.
• Increased wear on hinges and locking mechanisms due to constant shifting.
• Difficulty operating automatic or manual doors, causing inconvenience to customers and employees.

Prevention

• Choose thermally insulated metal doors to reduce expansion and contraction issues.
• Use proper sealing and weatherstripping to minimize air gaps.
• Install humidity control systems in areas with wooden doors to regulate moisture levels.
• Conduct seasonal maintenance to realign doors as needed.

Heavy Rain and Moisture Lead to Rust, Warping, and Water Damage

Cincinnati experiences frequent rain and high humidity, which can severely impact the durability of commercial doors by introducing moisture-related issues.

How It Happens

• Metal Doors: Exposure to moisture leads to rust and corrosion, weakening structural integrity over time.
• Wooden Doors: Water absorption causes swelling, warping, and eventual decay.
• Automatic Doors: Electrical components can short-circuit due to excess moisture.

Effects

• Rust and Corrosion: Weakens the door, making it less secure and reducing its lifespan.
• Swelling and Warping: Causes improper sealing, making it easier for drafts and water to enter the building.
• Electrical Malfunctions: Automatic doors may fail, leading to operational downtime and costly repairs.

Prevention

• Apply anti-corrosion coatings and regular paint touch-ups on metal doors.
• Use waterproof sealants to protect wooden doors from moisture absorption.
• Install proper drainage systems to prevent water pooling near entrances.
• Regularly inspect and maintain automatic door seals and electrical components.

Strong Cincinnati Winds Can Cause Commercial Doors to Slam or Become Misaligned

Cincinnati experiences high winds, especially during storms, which can affect the stability and functionality of commercial doors.

How It Happens

• Strong winds exert force on doors, causing hinge strain and misalignment over time.
• Wind pressure changes may prevent doors from sealing properly, leading to drafts and energy inefficiency.
• Exterior doors may slam shut unexpectedly, causing damage to the frame and posing a safety hazard.

Effects

• Damaged hinges and latches, leading to security concerns.
• Increased energy costs due to drafts and poor insulation.
• Risk of injury to employees and customers from uncontrolled door movement.

Prevention

• Install wind-resistant commercial doors designed to withstand high wind pressure.
• Use door closers and dampers to control door movement and prevent slamming.
• Reinforce door hinges and locks with high-strength hardware.
• Conduct routine maintenance to check for misalignment and wear.

Winter Snow and Ice Cause Freezing Around Doorframes

During Cincinnati’s harsh winters, snow and ice accumulation can interfere with the operation of commercial doors.

How It Happens

• Ice buildup freezes hinges and locks, making them difficult to operate.
• Cold temperatures contract metal, making doors stiff and misaligned.
• Melting snow leads to water intrusion, which refreezes and worsens door functionality.

Effects

• Doors get stuck shut, preventing normal business operations.
• Metal components weaken due to repeated freezing and thawing.
• Water damage occurs, causing rust, mold, or swelling in wooden doors.

Prevention

• Apply de-icing solutions around entryways and door tracks.
• Use heated entry mats to reduce snow accumulation at doorways.
• Lubricate hinges and locks with cold-weather-resistant lubricants.
• Install weatherproof gaskets and seals to keep moisture out.

Humidity and Temperature Changes Impact Automatic Door Sensors and Electrical Components

Humidity and temperature swings can affect the reliability of automatic commercial doors, leading to inconsistent performance.

How It Happens

• Excess moisture interferes with motion sensors, causing false activations or failures.
• Fluctuations in temperature affect electrical wiring, leading to short circuits.
• Condensation can cause internal corrosion in sensor panels and control systems.

Effects

• Automatic doors malfunction, slowing business operations.
• Increased repair costs due to damaged sensors and wiring.
• Security risks if doors fail to close properly.

Prevention

• Schedule regular sensor calibration and maintenance.
• Use humidity-controlled enclosures for electrical components.
• Replace worn-out wiring and sensors before they fail.

Extreme Heat Can Weaken Door Insulation, Leading to Higher Energy Costs

Cincinnati’s hot summers can weaken door insulation, making it harder to maintain indoor temperature control.

How It Happens

• Heat exposure causes insulation materials to degrade, reducing their effectiveness.
• Sunlight exposure leads to color fading and material warping.
• High temperatures increase door expansion, worsening misalignment.

Effects

• Higher cooling costs due to air leaks.
• Weakened security as doors no longer fit properly in frames.
• Aesthetic damage from prolonged sun exposure.

Prevention

• Install heat-resistant doors with UV protection.
• Use reflective coatings to minimize sun damage.
• Replace old weatherstripping to maintain insulation.

The Effects of Cincinnati Weather on Different Commercial Door Materials

Cincinnati weather affects commercial door materials differently.

Metal Doors

Metal doors are widely used in commercial settings for durability, but Cincinnati’s weather can take a toll on them. Extreme heat causes metal to expand, leading to misalignment with frames, making doors difficult to close. 

Cold temperatures contract metal, creating gaps that allow drafts and increasing energy costs. Rain and humidity accelerate rust and corrosion, especially in high-moisture areas, weakening structural integrity over time.

Prevention:

• Use galvanized or powder-coated metal doors to resist rust.
• Apply weatherstripping to prevent air leaks caused by expansion and contraction.
• Lubricate hinges and locks regularly to prevent freezing in winter.
• Schedule routine inspections to check for early signs of rust and structural wear.

Wood Doors

Wood doors add a professional aesthetic to commercial buildings but are highly susceptible to humidity and moisture changes in Cincinnati’s climate. High humidity in summer causes wood to swell, leading to difficulty opening and closing. 

Cold, dry air in winter makes wood shrink, leading to cracks and weakened doorframes. Heavy rain exposure contributes to warping, rot, and mold growth, making wood doors high maintenance in fluctuating weather conditions.

Prevention:

• Apply water-resistant sealants or coatings to protect against moisture.
• Ensure proper ventilation around entryways to control humidity exposure.
• Regularly inspect for signs of warping, cracking, or rot to address issues early.
• Consider engineered wood or composite alternatives for improved weather resistance.

Glass Doors

Glass doors provide a sleek and modern look for commercial properties, but temperature fluctuations and storms can impact their durability. Freezing temperatures make glass more brittle, increasing the risk of cracks or shattering. 

High heat causes expansion, leading to stress fractures over time. Condensation buildup from humidity can affect visibility and weaken door seals, resulting in air leaks that reduce energy efficiency.

Prevention:

• Use tempered or laminated glass for added strength against temperature shifts.
• Install Low-E coatings to reduce heat-related expansion and stress.
• Maintain rubber seals and weatherproof gaskets to prevent air leaks and condensation issues.
• Inspect for chips or cracks regularly to prevent them from worsening.

Fiberglass and Composite Doors

Fiberglass and composite doors strongly resist Cincinnati’s harsh weather conditions, making them a great alternative to metal and wood. Unlike wood, they do not warp, rot, or crack under humidity fluctuations. Unlike metal, they do not rust or corrode in rainy conditions. However, extreme temperature swings can cause minor expansion and contraction, affecting seals and insulation over time.

Prevention:

• Ensure proper weatherstripping and sealing to prevent air leaks.
• Regularly check and tighten door hardware to maintain alignment.
• Clean and inspect door surfaces to prevent dirt and moisture buildup that could cause wear.
• Use UV-resistant finishes to prevent fading or weakening from prolonged sun exposure.

How to Address the Effects of Cincinnati Weather on Commercial Doors

Cincinnati’s extreme temperatures, heavy rain, humidity, and strong winds can take a toll on commercial doors. If your doors have already been affected by the weather, immediate action is necessary to restore functionality, improve security, and prevent further damage. 

Here’s how to address common weather-related commercial door issues:

1. Fixing Warped or Misaligned Metal Doors

Issue: Metal doors expand in high temperatures and contract in cold weather, causing misalignment and operational difficulties.

Solution:

• Adjust hinges and realign the doorframe to restore a proper fit.
• Lubricate metal components to prevent stiffness in cold weather.
• Replace weatherstripping to close gaps and improve insulation.
• If warping is severe, consider upgrading to insulated or thermally broken metal doors to minimize expansion and contraction issues.

2. Restoring Water-Damaged Wood Doors

Issue: Excess moisture from rain and humidity causes wood doors to swell, crack, or warp.

Solution:

• Sand down swollen areas and apply a waterproof sealant to protect against future moisture damage.
• Reinforce the door with metal edging or braces if structural integrity is compromised.
• Install or repair door awnings to reduce direct water exposure.
• If the wood is beyond repair, replace it with a more moisture-resistant material, such as fiberglass or composite doors.

3. Repairing Rusted or Corroded Metal Doors

Issue: Rain and humidity accelerate rust and corrosion, weakening metal doors and affecting performance.

Solution:

• Sand off rusted areas and apply a rust-inhibiting primer followed by a weather-resistant coating.
• Replace heavily corroded hardware, such as hinges and locks, with rust-resistant alternatives.
• Improve drainage near entryways to reduce prolonged water exposure.
• Apply a protective sealant or repaint doors with weatherproof coatings to prevent further rusting.

4. Fixing Brittle or Cracked Glass Doors

Issue: Temperature fluctuations make glass doors more prone to cracking or shattering, while condensation buildup affects visibility and insulation.

Solution:

• Replace cracked or shattered glass with tempered or laminated glass for better durability.
• Check and replace failing rubber seals to prevent condensation and air leaks.
• Install low-emissivity (Low-E) glass coatings to reduce temperature-related stress on the glass.
• If necessary, reinforce the glass with security film to prevent future breakage.

5. Repairing Doors That Slam or Won’t Close Due to Wind Damage

Issue: Strong Cincinnati winds can misalign doors, damage hinges, or cause them to slam shut unexpectedly.

Solution:

• Adjust or replace damaged hinges and ensure proper door alignment.
• Install hydraulic door closers or wind-resistant dampers to control door movement.
• Use reinforced locks and strike plates to prevent forced openings during high winds.
• Inspect the doorframe for structural damage and repair or replace weakened components.

6. Addressing Energy Loss from Poorly Insulated Doors

Issue: Extreme temperatures and damaged seals result in drafts, increasing heating and cooling costs.

Solution:

• Replace worn-out weatherstripping and insulation to prevent air leaks.
• Upgrade to energy-efficient doors with insulated cores.
• Use door sweeps to seal gaps at the bottom of doors and improve climate control.
• Conduct an energy audit to identify problem areas and reinforce insulation where needed.

7. Restoring Automatic Doors Affected by Weather

Issue: Moisture, temperature fluctuations, and debris can cause automatic doors to malfunction.

Solution:

• Inspect and clean sensors to remove dirt, condensation, or ice buildup.
• Check motorized components and lubricate moving parts to ensure smooth operation.
• Seal electrical components with moisture-resistant enclosures to prevent water damage.
• If persistent issues arise, schedule a professional repair to assess internal wiring and system integrity.

Call A-24 Hour Door National Inc. for Commercial Door Repair in Cincinnati, Ohio

A-24 Hour Door National Inc. provides commercial repairs for all door types in Cincinnati, including automatic sliding doors, storefront doors, security gates, and commercial overhead doors. With AAADM-certified technicians and OEM parts, we ensure fast, reliable service to keep your business secure and operational. 

Call 1-800-884-4440 for commercial door solutions!

FAQs

What materials should I choose for my commercial doors in Cincinnati?

The best materials for commercial doors in Cincinnati include insulated steel, aluminum, fiberglass, and tempered glass. These materials withstand temperature fluctuations, humidity, and heavy usage, providing durability and energy efficiency.

Can I repair existing rust damage myself?

You can repair minor rust damage by sanding the affected area, applying a rust-inhibiting primer, and repainting with weather-resistant coatings. However, professional servicing is recommended for extensive corrosion to prevent structural weakening.

How often should I perform maintenance checks on my commercial doors?

You should perform maintenance checks on commercial doors at least once every three months. High-traffic doors require monthly inspections for alignment, hardware wear, and weather seal effectiveness.

How does humidity affect my commercial door lifespan?

Humidity shortens the lifespan of commercial doors by causing metal to rust, wood to warp, and glass to develop condensation issues. Regular maintenance, weather-resistant coatings, and proper ventilation help prevent damage.

What should I do if my garage door won’t open?

Check for power supply issues, blocked sensors, or broken springs if your garage door doesn’t open. If none of these are the issue, contact a technician for a thorough inspection and repair.

How often should I have my commercial garage door serviced?

You should have your commercial garage door serviced at least twice a year. High-use doors in warehouses or retail settings may require quarterly servicing to prevent malfunctions and costly repairs.