A pedestrian door is usually a swing-style door placed inside a garage door as an additional entry point. This door is intended to allow easy access for people to walk through the garage without needing to open the entire garage door.
This is often very common in industrial and commercial businesses; however, it is becoming much more common in residential homes. If you are wondering if this is a good option for your family, this article lists three reasons why a pedestrian door is a great idea, along with some safety measures to consider.
Convenience
Repeatedly entering and exiting a garage daily to access storage, cars, tools, etc., is a common routine for many. Instead of waiting for the entire garage door to roll up every time you need to enter, having a traditional man-sized door can help with convenience and time.
Especially if you have a basement garage, this side door will make entering and exiting the basement more practical.
An additional bonus is less wear on the garage door, and being able to walk in and out of a swing door and avoid the opening of the entire garage door can help prolong the life of your garage door opener and remote.
Better for Emergencies or Prolonged Power Outages
In case of an emergency, when you need to quickly vacate your property or cannot rely on the electric garage opener, having a man door allows for a quicker exit. It provides increased safety and ensures you can get in and out of the garage when needed. Especially If you live with a person with disabilities or mobility issues, getting into your home through a pedestrian door is faster and simpler.
More Privacy
As many tend to keep their expensive valuables in the garage, it’s natural to be concerned about others being able to see into your whole garage. It helps to have a smaller access point than the entire rolling door opening every time you enter or exit, lowering the risk of a break-in.
Safety Concerns
If these reasons have helped you decide to add a pedestrian door, there are some safety concerns to keep in mind.
- Door width – It would be wise to ensure the pedestrian door is wide enough (recommendations of at least 35 inches) to be wheelchair accessible. This will also allow more space when entering the door while bringing outside items.
- Door thresholds – Pedestrian door thresholds should be no more than three-quarters of an inch for high exterior doors and no more than half an inch for interior doors to allow access to wheelchairs or any walking/transportation aids.
- Pedestrian door motion detectors – These will come in handy to ensure that children and pets are safe inside by being notified when a door is opened.
- Safety precautions – As mentioned earlier, to prevent serious damage to the garage door and yourself, always make sure the pedestrian door is fully closed before using the electric opener for the garage door.
To get a quote from your local professionals in Kent, Washington, contact Doorman Service Co, Inc.