When choosing the right door for your space, you must have vast alternatives available. However, one option that causes a stir among homeowners, designers, and installers is pivot doors. So, what is a pivot door? Pivot doors have a visually pleasing look with a pivot system attachment at the top and bottom of the space.
The popularity of pivot doors goes beyond their look. If you want to know more about pivot doors, this blog is perfect for you! Read the guide below for an in-depth description of a pivot door, including its advantages and disadvantages, before choosing.
Contents
The History of Pivot Doors
The origin of pivot doors can be traced back to ancient times. Early door records were found in countries such as Egypt, Rome, Greece, and Iran. They were originally found in prehistoric stone structures and used in castles, buildings, and passageways. These doors are massive and heavy, making them ideal for entrances and passageways. One of the most famous examples of pivot doors from the ancient Iranian city of Persepolis is the Gate of All Nations, also called the Gate of Xerxes.
In recent history, the modern pivot door has been favored by the advent of present-day architecture. There were famous architects, such as Le Corbusier and Josep Lluís Sert, known for their minimalistic and functional designs, who utilized pivot doors. From the traditional pivot doors, the shift to innovative design allowed for enhanced design and functionality. Thus, the modern pivot doors with large and heavy panels, glassware, and stable pivot mechanisms benefit from the ancient doors.
How Do Pivot Doors Work?
The pivot doors work in a unique way that is different from traditional doors. If you want a comprehensive guide on how do pivot doors work, you can check out our blog. But to give you an overview, here are the three aspects of how they function:
Pivot Mechanism
The pivot mechanism makes the pivot doors unique as they rotate along the central vertical axis. The pivot mechanism has two parts: the top and bottom pivots. The top pivot door is mounted at the top door frame, while the bottom pivot is mounted at the bottom pivot door. The top pivot door supports the door and facilitates the door’s rotation. In contrast, the bottom pivot door supports the weight and directs the rotation of the door along with the top pivot.
Operations
The pivot doors open and close when you push or pull them. This is because of the pivot mechanism, which allows rotation around the vertical axis. The pivot doors also open smoothly because the pivot mechanism evenly distributes the weight of the door across the pivot door. For this reason, there is no excessive strain on the hinges, ensuring smooth operations.
Variations
Pivot doors are not limited to their types but also to their variations. There are three variations of the pivot doors: single, double, and concealed pivot doors.
Single Pivot Doors
Single-pivot doors are the most common type of pivot door. This type revolves around a single, large vertical axis attached to the single pivot mechanism.
Double Pivot Doors
The double pivot doors are another variation of the pivot doors, where two door panels rotate around a single vertical axis. This makes this door suitable for larger spaces due to its large openings.
Concealed Pivot Doors
Concealed pivot doors are another variation that focuses on the design as the pivot mechanism is completed. This makes the door blend in well with the interior of the space.
Characteristics of a Pivot Door
The pivot doors are different from traditional doors in a variety of ways. Learning its difference from the rest of your door options will enable you to decide why it’s best in your space.
Size
The size of the pivot doors is massive. Depending on the size of your space, pivot doors can also be larger, wider, and taller, yet still be functional. They also rotate and stop in the middle, which gives way to a large opening.
Material
Pivot doors are among the top list of high-standard innovation doors. One of its innovative features is that it can be made with a wide range of materials. Depending on the type of materials you will use, you can achieve the desired factors, including aesthetics, functionality, and durability. The following are the top three of the materials available:
Glass
The glass pivot doors are among the best options for creating a modern and elevated look. Different types of glass options exist, such as tempered, frosted, tinted, and laminated. Among these options, tempered glass is extremely durable, making it suitable for high-security places. In contrast, tinted and frosted glass suits a space that needs natural light.
Wood
The wood material is among the flexible options that provide a natural aesthetic and good insulation in your space. They have a variety of finishes that can elevate the overall design, such as stains or paints. However, there are drawbacks when using this material, such as being susceptible to shrinking and warping due to humidity and temperature changes.
Metal
There are varieties of metal materials that can be used, such as steel, aluminum, and stainless steel. Metal door options are sleek and modern, yet long-lasting and durable.
Movement
The movement of the pivot door can be characterized by the variations of pivot doors. The movement of a single pivot door revolves around a single vertical central axis. Hence, the door can be opened to one side, both inward and outward. In contrast, the double-pivot door has two-panel doors that revolve around a single vertical axis.
Cost
The cost of pivot doors depends on several factors, including the material, size, and design. Pivot doors are priced higher than traditional doors; however, it is a one-time cost because it is durable and requires less upkeep. At most, the price range of pivot doors can range from $1, 000 to $20, 000.
Types of Pivot Doors
With the vast range of pivot door options, you can find the best one for your space. Are you considering widening your choices? You can note the varieties available:
Pivot Front Door
A pivot front door is a type of door commonly placed at the entryway. The pivot front door also spins a vertical axis, which provides a flexible yet sleek opening. This door option is popular among homeowners and business owners as it has a large door opening, making it easier for people to go in and out of the space. Aside from its functionality, this door option creates a dramatic and welcoming area, serving as the space’s focal point.
Glass Pivot Door
A glass pivot door is among the popular options for interior spaces, such as the entryway. This door type has a glass panel and pivot hinge mechanism as its main material. Unlike the common glass doors, this option does not have side hinges. They only have a top and bottom pivot that supports the glass weight and keeps the movement stable. However, glass pivot doors are heavier and larger than glass-hinged doors. Thus, this option is recommended for large spaces where the swinging movement will not be impeded.
Sliding Pivot Door
A sliding pivot door is an innovative take on the common sliding door. This option elevates a modern, contemporary design while incorporating a pivot mechanism. Sliding pivot doors have a minimalistic design with large, flat panels of glass or other materials. This makes the door open and closes smoothly by sliding horizontally along the panel or vertically around the vertical axis.
Wood Pivot Door
The wood pivot door is one of the best options to add warmth and a natural setting to the space. This type offers various advantages, mainly aesthetic appeal, versatility, and insulation. The aesthetics of the wood pivot door depend on the material and finishes. There are wood materials available, such as oak, teak, and mahogany. They can also be in natural grain finishes, stain finishes, or paint finishes.
Pivot Shower Doors
Shower doors are another part of the house where pivot doors are ideal. A pivot shower door functions by swinging open and closing on a vertical axis due to the pivot mechanism. This door option has a smooth appearance, is simple to use, and has a seamless entrance. However, since the pivot doors swing open, it is best to install them in bigger shower spaces. This is to not limit the door’s movement and functionality.
Interior Pivot Doors
The interior pivot doors are ideal for indoor spaces such as bathrooms, showers, patios, partition areas, etc. There is a wide range of materials suitable for the interiors, such as glass, steel, wood, copper, and even marble. Depending on the chosen areas, the finishes and materials might vary. Another characteristic of this door type is that there is a pivot wall that enables you to divide and combine spaces.
Exterior Pivot Doors
The exterior pivot doors are a great way to create a big impression in your outdoor space. Aside from the fact that they are aesthetically pleasing in design and have large doorway openings, they also provide functionality. The exterior pivot doors are proven to be weather-resistant, as they can withstand extreme weather conditions. This door type is also energy-efficient as it has thermal insulation. They can even regulate air circulation as they let natural airflow around the space.
Applications of Pivot Doors
Pivot doors are among the most versatile door options on the market. Their design and functionality suit a multitude of uses for residential and commercial spaces. Some of its real-life applications include the following:
Residential Use
Pivot doors are a popular choice for homeowners who are building their dream homes. This door option in houses is due to its minimalistic design, which blends well with the overall architecture of the space. Plus, they are space-efficient, so you can maximize the interiors to your liking. For instance, pivot doors are suitable for living spaces as they can divide the living areas and transition between the open spaces.
Commercial Space
Pivot doors are also a popular option for commercial spaces because they leave an impact on the space. For this reason, pivot doors are utilized in lobbies and entrances. They produce a polished and functional appearance not only because of their design but also because of their wide opening.
Special Applications
Aside from the common application of pivot doors, they are also used in specialized spaces. Pivot doors can be used in architectural spaces, such as art galleries and museums, because of their artistic features. Their visuals and functionality enhance the overall application of the space. Additionally, pivot doors are suitable for high-traffic spaces due to their durability and ability to withstand wear and tear.
FAQs About Pivot Doors
The following are the common questions asked: What is a pivot door?
What is the point of a pivot door?
The pivot doors pivot from a point due to the pivot mechanism from the top and bottom. This is one of the most popular door options because of its clean and smooth surface, which is suitable for any space. This is a versatile door option because it can cater to limited or wide areas. This door option also has bigger panels and flexible rotation, aiding their aesthetic and functionality. Additionally, pivot doors have unique components, utilizing a pivot mechanism and hinges. Thus, they are less expensive but are manufactured flawlessly.
What are the downsides of pivot doors?
Although pivot doors have many advantages, there are also drawbacks you need to consider. One of its downsides is the cost, as the door requires special hardware and installation, including a pivot mechanism. Pivot doors also require a large entrance space, even if they don’t fully swing, to prevent any obstruction when opening and closing them. Additionally, depending on the design you choose, pivot doors might have a sturdy locking mechanism to strengthen security.
How is a pivot door different from a normal door?
Pivot doors are different from normal doors in that they rotate on an axis that is both attached at the top and bottom of the frame. In contrast, other doors, like hinged doors, open and close on a fixed axis. Pivot doors also have unique characteristics, such as they smoothly operate and can accommodate large and heavier panels. This is different from a normal door because how it operates will depend on the quality of the hinges and components.
What does pivot mean in doors?
The term “pivot” describes the pivot mechanism or the central axis that allows the door to rotate. The pivot mechanism is fixed at the top and bottom and is spaced apart from the door’s edge. This pivot allows flexibility in design and use, making it more effective in utilizing the space.
Conclusion
If you want a door that will set your space apart, pivot doors should be your first option! Pivot doors will be a phenomenal choice. If you want to explore more of what pivot doors can offer, feel free to reach out to us. We have a team of experts ready to help with your requirements. What are you waiting for? Take the first step towards a magnificent door!
