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Soft door closers, also known as door soft closers or convenience closers—prevent doors from slamming, reduce wear, and ensure doors stay securely shut. They are also required for fire-rated openings, helping limit the spread of fire by keeping doors closed.
Beyond quiet operation, a door closer soft mechanism supports safety, accessibility, and building security for both residential and commercial spaces.
What Are Soft Door Closers?
Soft door closers are devices installed on the door and frame that regulate closing speed through a hydraulic or spring mechanism. Modern models can be programmed to close automatically after a set delay, improving convenience and ensuring consistent door performance.
Self-closing hinges offer basic functionality but lack the smooth, controlled motion provided by a true soft close system.
Importance of Soft Door Closers
Safety
Soft closing protects fingers, especially for children, and helps individuals with mobility limitations by guiding the door gently into the frame.
Convenience
A convenience closer is helpful when carrying groceries, pushing carts, or moving through high-traffic spaces. It ensures the door closes completely, improving energy efficiency and comfort.
Damage Prevention
Slamming doors can damage hinges, frames, and surrounding walls. A soft door closer reduces impact, extending the life of the door and hardware.
Commercial Safety
Fire-rated doors rely on automatic closing to limit oxygen flow and slow fire spread. Soft closers support these safety requirements by ensuring the door seals properly.
Security
Access control systems require doors to close fully so locks and latches can engage. A soft close mechanism ensures consistent closure for improved building security.
Types of Soft Door Closers
Regular Arm Mount
Installed on the pull side of the door, allowing up to 180° opening. Common in both residential and commercial applications.
Top Jamb Mount
Mounted to the header on the push side, creating a cleaner aesthetic with the closer positioned on the frame instead of the face of the door.
Parallel Arm Mount
A durable, low-profile option suited for schools and high-traffic environments where hardware is more prone to tampering or damage.
Track Arm Mount
Features a roller that slides within a metal track. This design offers a streamlined appearance, although it is typically less durable than regular arm mounts.
Choosing the Right Soft Door Closer
When selecting a soft door closer, consider:
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Door size, thickness, and weight
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Mounting location
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Frequency of use
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Aesthetic preferences
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Fire rating or building code requirements
Options range from medium-duty to heavy-duty mechanisms depending on traffic volume and performance needs.
FAAC 950N2: A High-Performance Soft Door Closer Option
The FAAC 950N2 is a sleek and quiet soft door closer designed for swing doors. It can be installed on inward- or outward-opening doors and includes obstacle detection for enhanced safety.
This system uses a 24VDC electromechanical motor and can operate manually during a power outage through its built-in closing spring. The control unit allows precise adjustment of both opening and closing speeds, ranging from 4 to 10 seconds. With an opening angle between 100° and 125°, it is well-suited for high-traffic entrances.
The FAAC 950N2 is available in two variations: the articulated pushing arm and the slide pulling arm kit. Both options come with a stainless steel push-to-exit button for accessibility and ease of use.
Purchasing Soft Door Closers
Soft close mechanisms are not limited to full-size doors, they are also used in cabinet applications to reduce impact and ensure controlled movement.
For more options, installation guidance, or accessories, visit All Security Equipment. We offer a wide range of products designed to enhance door safety, security, and convenience across residential and commercial spaces.
