Miscellaneous – DCI Hollow Metal on Demand

What modifications am I eligible to make to the opening protective?

SaraFrisk — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 22:33:46 +0000

Modifications are only eligible when referenced and described in both the third-party certification and the manufacturer’s published instructions.

In Appendix B of SDI-100, “G” type galvanizing is not recommended. Is it correct to infer that the “A” Types are recommended? I understand that A60 is the thickest option. In a marine climate, would you say painted A60 is our best bet?

SaraFrisk — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 22:33:25 +0000

SDI recommends type A, both A40 and A60, over type G due to the superior primer adhesion qualities. A60 is superior to A40 for rust inhibiting.

SDI Technical Data Series 100 has been republished as an ANSI Standard, A250.8.In addition, please see our Technical Data Series 112 “Zinc-Coated Standard Steel Doors and Frames.” The difference in the A and G designations are explained. Table 1 of that document gives coding designations for A40, A60, G60 and G40.

Our firm designs healthcare facilities, and uses AIA MasterSpec as a basis for our specifications. In the Steel Door Frame section, it calls for a “bituminous coating; cold applied asphalt mastic SSPC-Paint 12 compound for 15 mil thickness per coat.” We have a subcontractor questioning the need for the bituminous coating. I seem to recall that the coating is primarily required at exterior door frames where moisture getting in behind the frame may be a problem. Can you shed any light on the reason for bituminous coating?

SaraFrisk — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 22:32:56 +0000

Some Architectural Specifications require steel frames to be back-coated with a “bituminous” product for corrosion protection and sound control. The term “bituminous” is defined as an asphalt or tar material obtained as a residue from heat refined petroleum. For years it was not recommended by the Steel Door Institute for frames to be factory back-coated due to issues with packaging, shipping and handling. This procedure was more effectively accomplished at the jobsite by the contractor or appropriate trade immediately prior to installation of the frame.

Modern materials now offer manufacturers the opportunity to back-coat frames with a more user and environmentally friendly product. Some of these coating s are VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) free and do not present the handling issues common to bituminous products. Today, multiple SDI manufacturers offer the option of factory back-coated frames which utilize these newer materials.

What is the definition to A, B, C, D, E and F cores?

SaraFrisk — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 22:32:28 +0000

Per SDI-100-1991 the cores were listed as follows:
A – Kraft Honeycomb
B – Polyurethane
C – Polystyrene
D – Unitized Steel Grid
E – Mineral Fiberboard
F – Vertical Steel Stiffeners

These are now archaic references and should be treated as such.

Are knock-down frames standard for all door openings?

SaraFrisk — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 22:32:02 +0000

The type of frame is up to the specifier’s discretion. To answer the question directly, knock down (K-D) frames are not standard for all openings, as many are specified as welded frames.

How should I store steel doors and frames onsite?

SaraFrisk — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 22:31:38 +0000

All frames shall be stored under cover. Assembled frames shall be stored vertically. The units shall be placed on at least 4″ (102 mm) high wood sills or in a manner that will prevent rust or damage, even if they are galvanized or primed. The use of non-vented plastic or canvas shelters that can create a humidity chamber shall be avoided.