A commercial door closer is a device that automatically closes a door after it’s been opened. These are common in entryways in busy places like offices, stores, schools, and public buildings, where it’s important for doors to close securely to help with security and safety.

A surface-mounted door closer is a type of commercial door closer that’s installed on the outside of the door or door frame, rather than being hidden inside. This design makes installation and maintenance easier, and it’s a popular choice for many high-traffic commercial settings.

Surface-mounted closers are a dependable, heavy-duty option for managing door movement. There are many types available, including fixed-size models, adjustable spring closers, and automatic door closers, each suited for different door sizes, traffic levels, and installation needs.

Surface-mounted door closers can be installed in several different ways, depending on the type of door, how it opens, and the look or function you're aiming for. The four most common mounting styles for surface-mounted closers are regular arm mount, top jamb mount, parallel arm mount, and track arm mount.

Regular arm mounts, also called pull side mounts, are the most common style, often used on doors that open into a room. A durable, strong closer is installed on the push side of the door, and the arm projects outward at a perpendicular angle. Top jamb mounts, on the other hand, are used on outward-swinging doors, especially when the top rail is too narrow for a regular arm mount. The closer is mounted to the frame above the door on the push side.

Parallel arm mounts, also known as push side mounts, are a style often used in schools and commercial buildings for their combination of a clean look and vandal resistance. The arm sits parallel to the door when closed, which makes it more discreet and less likely to be damaged. Track arm mounts, also referred to as slide track mounts, use a slide track instead of a traditional arm to have a more low-profile appearance. These closers are often found in smaller locations with limited space.

Selecting the right commercial door closer depends on several key factors, including the type of door, traffic volume, installation requirements, and desired functionality. High-traffic areas may require a heavy-duty surface-mounted door closer, while lighter-use spaces can benefit from fixed-size or adjustable spring models.

Mounting style is another important consideration, as it helps accommodate different door swing directions and space constraints. For accessibility and compliance, many facilities opt for ADA-compliant closers such as those in the Norton series, which can also be paired with required signage. Where hygiene and automation are priorities, automatic door closers, such as those from ASSA ABLOY, combine touchless entry with reliable performance.

Design preferences also influence the selection process. Surface-mounted closers are available in a variety of finishes that complement different architectural styles and environments. Traffic volume, mounting style, and aesthetics are all factors in determining which door closer is best for a project.