Door Industry Journal - Winter 2019

123 THE door industry journal winter 2019 2 Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk Locks & Building Hardware Where overhead, surface mounted door closers have mechanical arms and control boxes on show, the jamb-mounted door closer is completely invisible when the door is closed, and very unobtrusive when the door is open. Not just a pretty face Powermatic concealed door closers have long been used by designers and architects to assure the aesthetics of interiors in a wide variety of buildings, notably hotels and high- end apartments. The principle of improved aesthetics is now becoming more widely valued in social housing developments, and it is not only for the sole purpose of a better looking interior; the lack of functional, mechanical devices creates a more homely, less institutionalised atmosphere which contributes towards the comfort and well- being of residents. A more practical and financially astute reason for selecting a concealed door closer is the fact that they are far less likely to be damaged, whether by a deliberate act, lack of care, misuse or tampering. Such acts may not only damage the door closer, but can also cause damage to the fire door itself. The consequences could extend beyond mere inconvenience; a damaged fire door will be unable to perform its primary function of keeping smoke and fire at bay, thereby putting the safety of tenants at risk. It will also need repair, even replacement, which increases the cost burden on social landlords. Another benefit of concealment, which might be particularly relevant in dwellings occupied by tenants with psychological or mental health challenges, is the fact that when the door is closed, concealed door closers do not offer a point from which a ligature can be suspended. Powermatic door closers further reduce this risk as they can be mounted at a low height in the door. Choose wisely When selecting door closers, specifiers and door manufacturers should be particularly careful to choose products which will stand up to the rigours of day-to-day use in social housing situations and which will perform reliably. The costs may be a little higher at the time of purchase, but over the life of the product, these costs can be justified through reduced maintenance and, more importantly, enhanced reliability, which assures the continued safety and well-being of tenants. Powermatic includes a unique twin-power mechanism and undergoes exacting cycle testing. It is the only Certifire jamb- mounted door closer, contributes towards a door’s ability to meet accessibility requirements and can be adjusted without removal from the door. Powermatic door closers also comes with a 10-year warranty and, of course, there is also the comfort of knowing that they are manufactured in the UK by Samuel Heath, which, with more than 50 years’ experience, is probably the foremost authority when it comes to concealed door closers. More information can be found at www.concealeddoorclosers.com Surface mounted devices might be damaged more easily Concealed door closers contribute to tenant safety