Vertical Lift Fabric Doors (VLFDs) are increasingly popular in new builds because they combine large openings with lightweight, flexible materials. MAXDoor-USA provides a fabric door that can open fast and handle frequent cycles better than traditional rigid steel or rubber doors.
6 Tips for Selecting The Right Industrial Door
A guide to determining the right door for your application:
1. The functional purpose of a door and what the opening needs to do:
- ·High traffic access (such as warehouses, logistics hubs, etc.)
- Environmental separation to control temperature, dust, humidity control
- Indoor/Outdoor flexibility (fire stations, sport facilities, restaurants, etc.)
2. Structural integration – architects coordinate with structural engineers early to size the opening and support system. Unlike heavy overhead doors, fabric doors:
- Require less structural reinforcement
- Can span very large openings (aircraft hangers, manufacturing plants, etc.)
- Fit well into steel or concrete framing systems.
3. Performance criteria is critical and these key specs are evaluated by architects:
- Wind load resistance (extremely important for large openings)
- Thermal performance, insulation
- Air filtration and sealing capability
- Speed of operation – MAXDoor-USA offers standard speed and high-speed doors in all sizes. For climate-controlled buildings, this is a major deciding factor.
4. Safety and code compliance – Architects must ensure they meet all local regulations and standards. MAXDoor-USA modern VLFDs include:
- Breakaway or soft-bottom designs to reduce injury risk
- Sensors and automatic reversal systems
- Compliance with building and fire codes
5. Fabric/Material selection – Choice depends on durability, transparency and environmental needs:
- PVC Fabric, Low and high temperature, Sound reduction, Insulation, Anti-static, Transparent or frosted, Security (cut proof), Rubber, Insect screen, Windows, etc.
6. Cost and Lifecycle compared to traditional doors; the Lifecycle of VLFDs often justify the initial investment:
- MAXDoors have a 20–25-year life cycle vs. 8-10 years for a steel rollup door
- Reduced maintenance – when hit horizontal beams flex and pop out of door guides without damage to horizontal beams, guides, blocks or lifting belts.
- Energy savings due to fast open/close cycles
Contact MAXDoor-USA Today
MAXDoor-USA is an American manufacturer located in Clawson, Michigan. We design and manufacture custom vertical lift doors for demanding environments or specialized requirements that other door systems cannot meet.
To learn how you can receive 5% off your next MAXDoor, contact us to speak with one of our industrial door experts today or call (248) 915-5838.
