Going Up

by Stacy Rinella | March 19, 2024 8:21 am

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In the world of contemporary architecture, maximizing space and improving design functionality are constant drivers of innovation. One architectural element that continues to reinvent itself is the exterior door. Influenced by the demands for increased ventilation and more flexible use of space in recent years, vertical stacking doors are experiencing a surge in popularity. New designs, specifically those with clear sections, are on the rise because of their ability to merge indoor and outdoor spaces effortlessly and elegantly in commercial environments.

Borrowing from the look and performance of sectional doors and the compact footprint of rolling doors, vertical stacking clear doors virtually disappear into the ceiling as they open. Constructed of glass, acrylic, or polycarbonate panels framed by extruded anodized aluminum, these new styles allow architects and designers to reimagine spatial aesthetics and control natural light. Simultaneously, this design also delivers practical solutions to common challenges like the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, energy efficiency, and security.

With everything vertical stacking clear doors have to offer, they are now being specified more frequently, providing a sleek new architectural element with modern lines and thoughtful features.

Space optimization

In settings where space is limited, architectural elements are called upon to deliver both style and function. Unlike traditional swinging doors or sliding doors that require considerable space or clearance to operate, vertical stacking doors feature compact sections that stack above the opening without the need for overhead tracks. Alternatively, doors can also be designed so the sections recess into the ceiling and are barely visible at all.

Requiring minimal ceiling space even when fully open, vertical stacking doors will not interfere with mechanical, electrical, or plumbing systems located in the ceiling. This gives architects and designers more design freedom while also giving businesses like restaurants and cafes greater square footage for more tables and higher revenues. By opening their vertical stacking doors, these businesses can increase their seating capacity during favorable weather.

Design versatility

Vertical stacking doors offer a sleek, contemporary look that can complement a wide range of architectural styles. Their minimalist design with no overhead tracks and discreetly stowed sections aligns well with modern design trends that incorporate clean lines and unobstructed views. Likewise, vertical stacking doors feature a variety of options which allow designers to create a look that blends with a building’s architectural elements. Ceiling features in particular benefit from the unobtrusive presence of vertical stacking doors, giving designers greater freedom to incorporate overhead elements without visual interruption.

To complement the designer’s palette, a vertical stacking clear door comprises individual sections made of glass, acrylic, or polycarbonate set in a frame of extruded aluminum. Glass options can include tempered, insulated, frosted, and Low-E in a range of thicknesses like 3.15, 6.4, and 12.7 mm (0.125, 0.25, and 0.5 in.). The aluminum portion of the section can be customized with anodized finishes that include clear, black, and bronze, and paint finishes are also offered as an option. Together, these customizations allow designers to control the amount of natural light in the space and select the ideal combination of colors and finishes.

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Technical innovation

At the heart of a vertical stacking door is technical innovation. Most notable, but least noticeable, are its cleverly hidden sections and mechanisms. As previously noted, sections stow discreetly over the door or can be almost completely hidden. The design also eliminates unsightly hinges, exposed tracks, and cables, so it can operate smoothly and quietly without disturbing anyone nearby.

Additionally, some models have been tested to withstand positive and negative wind loads up to 122 kg/m² (25 psf) and pressure up to 183 kg/m² (37.5 psf) in accordance with applicable building codes. Standard construction for normal use can be as high as 20 cycles per day with a life expectancy of 25,000 cycles, giving the vertical stacking door the added benefit of being a sound long-term investment.

Safety and energy

Top concerns in design are always safety and efficiency, and vertical stacking doors address both. With advanced protection features, like object detection systems which prevent the doors from closing when an obstruction is present, vertical stacking doors offer a holistic design that delivers on safety as well as aesthetics and functionality.

To conserve energy, advanced models feature built-in gaskets between the vertical sections that make the door International Energy Conversation Code (IECC) compliant for air infiltration. This feature keeps patrons comfortable when the door is closed while reducing energy use. Likewise, insulated glass and Low-E glass provide even more options for controlling energy efficiency.

Commercial appeal

In commercial settings, such as event venues, retail spaces, and restaurants, vertical stacking doors create adaptable and dynamic environments. They allow for quick and easy reconfiguration of spaces to suit different purposes and offer businesses a flexible solution that can adapt to changing needs.

Vertical stacking doors are also gaining popularity as an architectural element, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. Interior designers use them to enhance patron experiences by maximizing natural light and indoor/outdoor views while adding spaciousness and freedom to their designs.

Heather Bender is the director of commercial product marketing at Clopay Corporation. Excelling in product management, she adeptly handles product inception to commercialization, finding unique solutions for building owners and designers. She can be contacted at hbender@clopay.com.

Source URL: https://www.metalarchitecture.com/products/going-up/

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