Do you have memories of running around in a hotel’s revolving door entrance when you were a kid? As an adult, do you find yourself wondering, “What’s the purpose of revolving doors?” Revolving doors actually have a fascinating history that is very revealing of their initial purpose. As they have continued to be used, they have brought many other apparent benefits too. 

The Origins Of Revolving Doors

The original revolving door was actually patented in 1888 by Theophilus Van Kannel, making this innovation over a century old. The public wouldn’t see the revolving door itself until 1899 when a wooden one was first installed at a restaurant in Madison Square Gardens. The original design for the revolving door consisted of three or four door panels, or “wings,” that were attached to a central shaft around which they would rotate. 

What’s The Purpose Of Revolving Doors? 

Now that you know when revolving doors were invented and their original design, it’s time to answer the question, “What’s the purpose of revolving doors?” There are actually many ways to answer that question, but let’s start with the reason behind its invention. That initial purpose was to provide commercial buildings with temperature and air control. The design of revolving doors allows them to prevent any serious amounts of cold or hot air from leaving or entering a building, unlike a traditional door that can let in an extreme draft. 

what's the purpose of revolving doors

Why Revolving Doors Are Still Used 

While temperature and air control are the first answers to the question, “What’s the purpose of revolving doors?” it’s not the only answer. There are plenty of reasons why revolving doors are a popular choice for commercial buildings. 

1. Noise Reduction

The first reason why revolving doors are still used in commercial buildings is that they reduce noise. The noise reduction is attributed to how the panels keep loud noises from fully coming into the building. This makes revolving doors a great insulator against extreme temperatures and street sounds. 

2. High Security

While they may not seem like it at first, revolving doors are very secure and work well as an extra security measure. Today, revolving doors can include built-in metal detectors, which will make the door automatically stop moving upon sensing something like a firearm. Security guards are also able to identify anyone who enters a building easily because of the glass panels. 

3. Accessibility

The amount of accessibility provided by revolving doors is also worth noting. Every public space should be accessible to everyone, and revolving doors help ensure just that. Most people are able to enter and exit easily, as many revolving doors are automatic and usually have enough space for any number of people at a time. 

4. Low Maintenance 

Revolving doors also continue to be an appealing feature for commercial buildings because of their low maintenance. This can be attributed to the glass panels being easy to clean and the central point being very robust. The fact that these doors can’t be slammed also reduces the frequency at which they require repairs. 

ASAP Locksmith Can Fix Your Revolving Doors!

Hopefully, this blog has thoroughly answered your question, “What’s the purpose of revolving doors?” The benefits of temperature and wind control, noise reduction, high security, accessibility, and low maintenance are strong examples of why revolving doors continue to be popular. If your commercial building uses revolving doors, you can reach out to a locksmith if you experience any problems with them. Luckily, ASAP Locksmith Houston is the best place to reach out to for any commercial locksmith needs. Contact us today to keep your revolving doors in smooth operation.