Modernising Access: Fitting Automatic Door Operators to Conventional Doors
Many buildings still rely on traditional manual doors, even though accessibility requirements and modern expectations continue to rise. At Stilo Group Services, we frequently retrofit automatic door operators and control arms onto existing conventional doors. This practical solution delivers significant benefits without the need for costly structural alterations.
What Are Automatic Door Control Arms?
Automatic door control arms (also known as swing door operators or actuators) are compact motorised units that can be fitted to standard hinged doors. The visible silver arm connects to the door and gently pushes or pulls it open when activated by sensors, push buttons, or access control systems.
These systems are designed specifically for retrofit installations. They can be mounted on the push or pull side of the door and work with most existing door frames, making them an ideal upgrade for offices, healthcare facilities, retail premises, schools, and public buildings.
Key Benefits of Retrofitting Automatic Door Operators
- Improved Accessibility
Automatic door operators remove physical barriers for wheelchair users, elderly visitors, parents with pushchairs, and anyone with mobility challenges.
This helps organisations meet their obligations under the Equality Act and pass Building Control inspections more easily.
- Enhanced Hygiene
Touchless operation reduces the need for people to touch door handles, a major advantage in hospitals, clinics, food production areas, and high-traffic workplaces.
- Greater Convenience
Staff and visitors enjoy smoother movement through buildings. Deliveries, cleaning teams, and people carrying equipment all benefit from hands-free access.
- Energy Efficiency
Modern low-energy operators help maintain internal temperatures by ensuring doors close promptly and reliably, reducing heat loss in winter and cooling loss in summer.
- Safety and Compliance
Quality systems include obstacle detection, emergency breakout features, and adjustable opening speeds. Many models can also integrate with existing access control, fire alarm, and building management systems.
- Cost-Effective Upgrade
Retrofitting is significantly more affordable than replacing entire door sets. Most installations can be completed with minimal disruption to daily operations.
Why Accessibility Matters to Stilo Group Services
At Stilo Group Services, we believe accessibility should be considered in every project we undertake, not treated as an afterthought. Whether we are installing perimeter protection, CCTV systems, or access control solutions, we look for opportunities to improve how people move through and interact with a building.
Our recent work supporting a client with an urgent Building Control inspection highlighted this approach. By quickly installing automatic door operators on existing doors, we helped them achieve compliance and pass their inspection without delay.
We take pride in delivering practical, inclusive solutions that not only meet technical requirements but also create better environments for everyone who uses a building. Accessibility is not just about compliance, it reflects a genuine commitment to supporting our clients and the people who use their facilities every day.
Considering an Upgrade?
If your building still has manual doors and you want to improve accessibility, meet compliance standards, or simply offer a more welcoming experience, retrofitting automatic door operators is often the most effective solution.
Our team can assess your existing doors, recommend the most suitable systems, and carry out professional installation with minimal disruption.
Contact Stilo Group Services today to discuss how we can help modernise access in your building.
