How to Check ADA Door Opening Force (5 lb Rule for Commercial Doors)

Hey guys, Gary here with Door Closers USA.In this video, I’m going to cover one final—but very important—step when installing or adjusting a commercial door:verifying ADA-compliant opening force.

ADA Opening Force Requirements

Per ADA guidelines, interior commercial doors must requireno more than 5 lbs of force to open.Exterior doors typically allow higher force (commonly around 8.5 lbs),but you should always verify requirements with your local jurisdiction.

Using a Door Opening Force Gauge

To test door opening force accurately, we use a door pressure force gauge.This gauge measures the pounds of force required to begin opening the door.

• Reset the gauge to zero
• Position the gauge against the door rail
• Pull smoothly to open the door
• Read the force indicator ring

There will always be a small initial resistance when opening the door,but the force should normalize quickly.For ADA-compliant interior doors, the reading must remain under 5 lbs.

What Can Affect Opening Force?

A door closer alone does not guarantee ADA compliance.Several factors can increase opening force beyond acceptable limits:

• Worn or damaged pivot hinges
• Door binding against the frame
• Bottom weather stripping dragging
• Improper door alignment or sagging

Before adjusting the closer, always confirm that the door swings freelywithout resistance.

How to Reduce Opening Force

If your door exceeds ADA opening force limits, you have a few options:

• Reduce the door closer spring power
• Re-adjust door alignment and pivots
• Switch to a parallel arm closer configuration

Parallel arm installations naturally reduce opening force by approximately20–25% compared to top jamb installations,making them ideal for low-force ADA applications.

Adjustable ADA Door Closers

The door closers shown in this video feature adjustable spring power,allowing precise tuning to meet ADA opening force requirements.Even with glass installed, these closers provide enough adjustmentto stay under the 5 lb limit when properly configured.

Watch the Full ADA Opening Force Test

Need Help Meeting ADA Compliance?

We carry ADA-compliant door closers, force gauges, and commercial door hardwarefor storefront, hollow metal, and aluminum glass doors.If you’re unsure which closer or configuration you need,send us photos or contact our team.

All products shown are available at doorclosersusa.com.

Thanks again for watching—this is Gary with Door Closers USA.