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ADA-Compliant Doors

Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is mandatory in public spaces like schools, hotels and entertainment venues. DoorStop covers ADA door requirements, including what is needed — bigger doors, technology features and double doors — for these spaces and why.

ADA compliant doors

Why Is ADA Compliance Important?

The ADA is a federal statute signed into law in 1990. It has since been working to create an equal experience for those with disabilities, ensuring they have the same opportunities and access to services, employment and federal programs.

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This equality extends to public accommodations, which the ADA defines as any business with more than 15 employees. All public buildings and commercial facilities must follow strict guidelines that ensure an accessible design. If you are found to be noncompliant, you may receive penalties costing anywhere from $55,000 to $150,000. These guidelines are integral to people with disabilities, ensuring they can fully and equally participate in life.

ADA Requirements for Interior Doors

Your business should meet the following regulations for accessible doors to stay in compliance with ADA door requirements: 

  • Clear opening width: Doorway openings must be a minimum width of 32 inches, measured when the door is opened to 90-degrees and taken from the face to the frame stop.

  • Clear height: The ADA requires doors to have a minimum height of 80 inches. 

  • Closing speed: An entrance with spring hinges should take a minimum of 1.5 seconds to close from a 70-degree angle. For doors with closers, it should take at least five seconds to move from a 90-degree angle to 12 degrees from being closed. 

  • Door surface: Surfaces within 10 inches of the ground must be smooth on the pushing side. 

  • Hardware: Door handles, pulls and locks should be installed between 32 and 48 inches above the ground. They should operate with five pounds of force and a closed fist. 

  • Opening force: Users should open interior doors with five foot-pounds. 

  • Thresholds: For new construction, thresholds should not be more than ½-inch high, while ¾-inch is allowed for existing thresholds with a beveled edge on each side with no more than a 50% gradient.

Need an ADA-Compliant Door?

Get ADA compliant doors from DoorStop NYC

Find Your ADA-Compliant Doors at DoorStop

Do you need help supplying accessible doors to meet ADA requirements? The experts at DoorStop can help. We provide doors that create inviting, inclusive environments in any public space.

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With more than 80 years of experience, we'll walk with you every step of the way, ensuring that you get what you need. Contact us to get started today!  

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