How to Choose the Right Automatic Door System in Calgary

How to Choose the Right Automatic Door System for Your Calgary Property

Installing an automatic door system is one of the most effective ways to boost accessibility, improve traffic flow, and create a professional first impression. But choosing the right one for your Calgary property requires more than just picking what “looks good.”

Whether you operate a retail storefront, office building, medical clinic, or industrial facility, the right door system must align with your space, traffic volume, code requirements, and climate conditions.

This guide will walk you through what to consider when choosing an automatic door system and help you avoid costly mistakes that could affect safety, efficiency, or code compliance.

1. Understand Your Building Type and Traffic Flow

Start by considering what your building needs from an entry system:

Retail & Customer-Facing Spaces

• High traffic volume
• Quick, hands-free access
• Aesthetic appeal
• Barrier-free accessibility for all users

Best fit: Sliding or telescoping automatic doors with motion sensors

Office & Commercial Buildings

• Balanced security and convenience
• Keycard or fob integration
• Quiet operation

Best fit: Swing doors with handicap push buttons or automatic sensors for lobby areas

Healthcare Facilities

• Touchless entry for hygiene
• Wide clearance for wheelchairs/stretchers
• Consistent performance under frequent use

Best fit: Automatic sliding doors with motion and presence sensors

We service all building types across Calgary, Airdrie, Cochrane, and Okotoks. Explore our automatic door services to find the right fit for your business.

2. Know the Main Types of Automatic Door Systems

Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common commercial automatic doors used across Calgary properties:

Sliding Doors

• Ideal for high-traffic or wide entryways
• Common in retail, clinics, and airports
• Minimal space requirements
• Available in single or bi-parting designs

Swing Doors

• Great for tight spaces or retrofitting existing entries
• Suitable for interior doors or small commercial spaces
• Can be paired with handicap buttons or touchless sensors

Folding Doors

• Best where wall space is limited
• Good for compact buildings or narrow hallways

Telescoping Doors

• Maximize entrance width in smaller openings
• Provide a sleek, modern look
• Common in high-end retail and corporate buildings

Each option can be customized with:

• Frameless or aluminum designs
• Battery backup systems
• Smart access control systems

3. Factor in Calgary’s Weather & Energy Needs

Calgary’s weather can be brutal — snow, ice, chinooks, and long winters. Your door system needs to:

• Seal tightly to reduce heat loss
• Withstand moisture, salt, and temperature swings
• Open and close quickly to minimize HVAC load
• Function smoothly during power outages or extreme cold

Look for:

• Weather-rated sensors and motors
• Low-energy operators
• Sealed frame systems
• Optional heated thresholds

Worried about performance in Alberta winters? Our automatic door installations include climate-appropriate sealing and configuration.

4. Think About Accessibility and Code Compliance

In Alberta, accessibility isn’t just good practice — it’s code.

Your system may need to meet:

• Alberta Building Code (barrier-free access requirements)
• National Fire Code (egress and emergency systems)
• Local bylaws depending on your building type

To meet accessibility standards:

• Install handicap door buttons (wireless or hardwired)
• Include motion sensors for touchless access
• Use presence sensors to avoid doors closing on users
• Ensure sufficient clearance and timing

We offer full handicap button installation services, integrated with automatic door systems, to help Calgary businesses meet accessibility requirements.

5. Consider Add-Ons & Safety Features

A fully optimized system often includes additional features such as:

• Battery Backup – Ensures operation during power outages
• Motion + Presence Sensors – For seamless and safe entry
• Key Fob or Card Access – For staff-only or restricted areas
• Remote Control or App Access – For advanced automation
• Interlock Systems – Useful for pharmacies or secure buildings

Need a retrofit or service upgrade? Our team provides automatic door repairs and add-ons across Calgary and nearby communities.

6. Work With a Certified Calgary Installer

Don’t gamble on a generic solution. Work with an experienced, local provider who can:

✅ Assess your unique site needs
✅ Recommend Alberta-compliant systems
✅ Handle installation, repair, and maintenance
✅ Provide ongoing support for upgrades and emergencies

Ready to get started? Contact our Calgary automatic door experts for a custom quote tailored to your building’s needs.

Final Thoughts

The right automatic door system can make a lasting impression — on your customers, your staff, and your bottom line. Whether you're upgrading an old entryway or building something new, it pays to install a system that’s efficient, accessible, and built for Calgary’s climate.

From motion sensors to handicap door operators, steel or aluminum doors, and advanced access control — we handle it all.