Behind the design: Pivot doors
If you like the look of big picture windows and doors that let in light, merge inside and out and make a style statement, then pivot doors are a great option
Whether you’re retrofitting doors or looking into designs and styles for a self-build, proportions and aesthetics should, without doubt, be at the forefront of your mind. You don’t want doors looking out of place because of the material you choose or the size of opening you opt for; that’s the sort of thing that can ruin the entire look of your home! With so many designs on the market, what can pivot doors offer? Well, if you’d like uninterrupted views through a single pane of glass without mullions or bars, better connection with your external space, a dramatic focal point and a large aperture welcoming in light, then pivot doors could be for you. Here, we take a look behind the design at everything you’ll need to consider before making this choice.
HOW IT WORKS
Pivot doors rotate around a pivot at the top and bottom of the door leaf, as opposed to having hinges set on the side in the traditional way. The pivots are always some way inset from the side, which means that when you open the door the aperture is divided some way along its full width.the doors can open both inwards and outwards, but they need enough space to do so, meaning they may not suit a tight space.
Due to the nature of how pivot doors work, it’s important to consider how big a door you will need, its function and its location. The opening needs to be wide enough to get through easily, especially for those with pushchairs or wheelchairs to take into consideration. We usually recommend offsetting the pivots in by a third of the door leaf width, giving an opening of twothirds of the door’s width.
PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS
• Structural details Depending on the size of the opening, large pivot doors will require some supporting structure — usually a lintel (typically steel or concrete) at the head of the door will do the trick. Your architect, structural engineer and door supplier will need to coordinate the fitting of this and determine how the structure will be concealed. If pivot doors are retrofitted it is important to make sure that the existing structure is adequate to support the weight and size of the new door.
• Drainage
Most pivot doors are installed where the internal and external floor levels are flush with one another. This necessitates a robust drainage solution such as a slot drain. The options should be considered prior to designing and installing the door and the fitting will need to be coordinated with the supplier and the contractor.
• Level threshold
Installing a pivot door where both the interior and the exterior floors are flush will create a seamless transition between inside and out. Aesthetically a level threshold works well and is relatively practical too, offering a good option for wheelchair users and for those with mobility issues.
Most door suppliers will offer threshold cill options, which should be considered with respect to exposure, the longevity and maintenance of your chosen materials, and their appearance.
MATERIAL CHOICE
It is important to consider the material of a pivot door as well as its colour or stain. This can affect its maintenance needs, durability and cost.you should also think about it in relation to the other materials you pick for your windows and frames. A timber door may weather over time unless treated and maintained, and any treatment is likely to alter its appearance; a lacquer may have a sheen, for example, while an oil will usually produce a richer colour. A more exposed door may weather quicker than other elements on the same elevation, leading to a mismatched finish.
Most suppliers offer doors in any standard RAL colour, which can add a playful splash of personality to a façade. Check with the door supplier that they offer the full range and not just the standard options. Also, bear in mind that painted timber doors will need regular maintenance.
Aluminium pivot doors are a more expensive option up front but need much less maintenance. These can also be polyester powder coated (PPC) to any RAL colour — however, most metallic shades will come at an extra cost. When choosing a RAL colour we always recommend getting a full RAL chart and asking for samples before making your final decision.
STANDARD OR BESPOKE?
Pivot doors can be made in much larger sizes than standard hinged doors, so if you want to go for either a wider or taller door you can opt for a bespoke design. If you are retrofitting or simply choosing to go with a standard size, then some door suppliers offer a number of popular sizes off-the-shelf, including 626mm, 726mm, 826mm and 926mm. (Remember to factor in the width of the opening area.)
THE COST
Prices for pivot doors vary depending on size, frame material and supplier. The large door shown left cost around £400-£500 to install. It’s always best to get a few quotes from suppliers to understand the cost implications. Pivot doors usually cost more than side-hung patio or front doors, but some suppliers offer them at the same price if they are over a specific width. The material you choose also affects costs — timber is usually more inexpensive than aluminium, for instance.