Frequently Asked Questions When Choosing Bathroom Stall Doors

In public bathrooms, privacy and security are very important. Whether you’re setting up a public restroom or a washroom for a commercial building or an office, you need to consider the best bathroom stall doors carefully so you can protect the occupants. At the end of the day, they are your assets to public comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions When Choosing Bathroom Stall Doors
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While considering a catch-all solution can be tempting, it’s never a good idea. There are so many things you need to consider, such as the sizing, look, materials, and regulations. You also need to look into how durable the material is.

If you’re struggling to find the best bathroom stall doors, then you’ve come to the right place. Today, we will discuss some frequently asked questions that can help you with your choice. 

Why bathroom stall doors matter

It’s easy to assume that all bathroom stall doors serve the same purpose. After all, that can be true – to an extent. But then, different doors can have different effects on your bathrooms. For instance, a corporate building can benefit from contemporary or stylish designs, while public bathrooms can benefit from doors that can prevent vandalism.

Setting up full bathroom stalls outright can save you time, money, and effort – especially during the installation. But then, there are times where you need to replace a door or two. So, if you notice your doors showing wear and tear, you’ll need to get a full replacement, which can be costly.

Depending on the type of building or bathroom, you need to see to it that the occupants experience a level of comfort, privacy, and safety as they use the bathroom. Because of this, it only makes sense that you buy stall doors from a professional supplier and manufacturer. 

FAQs to help you choose bathroom stall doors

Choosing bathroom stall doors can be tough, but here are some frequently asked questions to help you choose the best ones for your bathroom.

What are bathroom stall doors?

Bathroom stall doors are the doors you pass through when you use the toilet in public bathrooms. They’re also known as bathroom stalls, restroom compartments, and toilet partitions.

How thick should the doors be?

Most doors should be at least 1-inch thick. However, the phenolic compact laminate must be ½-inch thick.

What are the materials available?       

• Powder coat material - is one of the most popular materials that are used for toilet partitions. They’re the most budget-friendly materials that are used in schools, churches, restaurants, and any commercial setting.

• Plastic laminate material – is the second most popular material, and is currently re-branded to HPL or high-pressure laminate. This material is a little more expensive than powder-coat steel and comes in many color options. This material isn’t good for high-moisture areas, and should never be used for any type of shower divider. If the moisture gets to the core board, then it will start swelling and pop the laminate.

• Solid plastic material – is one of the longest-lasting, most durable materials out there. Also known as polymer or HDPE, this material is a top choice for bathrooms that experience high volumes of traffic. You can find them in schools, airports, stadiums, and other facilities that need materials that will last longer. This material is anti-rust and corrosion and is more likely to stand the test of time. If damaged, you can always make minor repairs to the material.

• Stainless steel material – is one of the most elegant materials of the bathroom partitions family. While this material has properties that can prevent corrosion and rust, this material will still rust if you install it in showers. Keep this away from moisture and water.

• Phenolic/compact laminate material – is virtually bullet-proof. If your budget allows, this should be your best choice. When installed correctly, you don’t have to worry about replacing it, since it only needs little to no maintenance.

What to look for when choosing bathroom stall doors?

When choosing stall doors for your bathroom, it’s never a good idea to choose the first ones you come across with. Your ideal doors should be sturdy and compliant with regulations, but you should always consider the following:

• Do the doors give occupants enough privacy? Are there any gaps between the doors and stalls?

• Is the door easy for occupants to use? Can disabled users easily open and close them?

• Is the door easy to maintain and clean? Is it likely to fall victim to graffiti or vandalism? Can it resist years of use?

• Have you considered the way the doors swing in and out? Will there be blockages or obstructions?

• Does the door match the construction and finish of the existing stalls? Do you need to create a flush or a more vibrant aesthetic?

• How do you install the doors? Does it require simple installation you can handle all by yourself, or do you need to hire a professional?

• What about the dimensions? US bathroom stalls come in standard sizes and shapes. Stall doors available from trusted retailers should fit all stall varieties.

But of course, these are just a few of the considerations you need to keep in mind.

What colors are available?

Each material has colors specific to them. It also depends on the manufacturer or retailer. If you want to know more information about the available colors, you can check their websites or call their customer service.

Is it important to consider which way the stall doors swing?

Yes. Swinging the doors in an ADA clear space isn’t allowed. To know more information on ADA-Handicap compliance, you should review the bathroom stall and ADA sizes.

What’s the best size for handicap stalls?

The most popular option is the 36-inch door. When opened at 90 degrees, it maintains the typically 34-inch clear, which is needed to comply with most ADA situations. And while a 34-inch door can also comply in all ambulatory stall scenarios and some ADA stalls, it’s better to go for the 36-inch door at all times. 

One side to buying stall doors is the image you put across. Your occupants will judge you on the way you set up your stalls. Before you buy bathroom stall doors, make sure to keep these FAQs in mind to help you with your decision.