A Guide to Wicket Doors in Roller Shutters & Sectional Overhead Doors

Introduction

In the fast-paced world of modern business, security and convenience go hand in hand. From warehouses and factories to retail shops and garages, property owners across the UK rely heavily on roller shutters and sectional overhead doors for protection, efficiency, and functionality.

But what happens when you need quick pedestrian access without opening the entire shutter or door? That’s where wicket doors come in a practical, space-saving feature that blends accessibility with safety.

This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about wicket doors in roller shutters and sectional overhead doors from their purpose and benefits to installation tips, safety features, and applications for commercial door solutions UK. Whether you manage a warehouse, industrial unit, or shopfront, understanding pedestrian access in roller shutters is key to enhancing both security and efficiency.

1. What Are Wicket Doors?

A wicket door is a small pedestrian door built within a larger door, typically a roller shutter or sectional overhead door. It allows individuals to pass through without raising the entire door, offering easy access while maintaining security and insulation.

You can think of it as a “door within a door.”

Wicket doors are particularly popular in industrial and commercial setups where staff frequently enter and exit but where opening the full shutter would waste energy, expose the interior to outside elements, or slow operations.

2. Wicket Doors in Roller Shutters

What Are Roller Shutters?

Roller shutters are vertical rolling doors made from horizontal slats that coil around a drum above the opening. They are common in shops, garages, warehouses, and loading bays due to their durability, compact design, and excellent security.

Wicket Doors in Roller Shutters

A roller shutter wicket door guide typically describes an integrated pedestrian door installed within the roller shutter curtain. It’s framed with reinforced materials and fitted with its own hinges and locking system.

Applications

• Retail Shops:Provides staff entry without opening the entire shutter after hours.
• Garages:Allows people to enter or exit without raising the shutter.
• Warehouses:Enables quick access for employees without disrupting operations.
• Workshops:Provides convenience for deliveries or minor tasks.

3. Sectional Overhead Doors Explained

What Are Sectional Overhead Doors?

Sectional overhead doors open vertically and are made of interlocking panels that slide along ceiling-mounted tracks. They are widely used in industrial and commercial environments for their insulation, strength, and space efficiency.

Why Add a Wicket Door?

Adding a wicket door to a sectional overhead door enables pedestrian access while keeping the large overhead door closed. This improves energy efficiency, reduces wear and tear on motors, and maintains indoor climate control.

Key Use Cases:

• Industrial Units:Where workers need frequent entry without activating the main door.
• Cold Storage Facilities:To maintain internal temperature and energy efficiency.
• Car Showrooms or Service Centres:To provide easy access for staff and customers.

4. Benefits of Wicket Doors

Adding wicket doors in roller shutters or sectional overhead doors provides a range of practical advantages for both residential and commercial properties.

1. Enhanced Convenience

A wicket door allows quick pedestrian access without operating the entire shutter or door ideal for frequent entries during business hours.

2. Improved Energy Efficiency

Opening large doors lets out heat or conditioned air, increasing energy bills. Wicket doors minimize air exchange, keeping interiors insulated.

3. Increased Security

Wicket doors can be locked independently, providing secure access without exposing the entire opening essential for after-hours entry.

4. Reduced Wear and Tear

Frequent operation of large doors leads to mechanical strain. Wicket doors reduce this wear by limiting full-door usage.

5. Safety & Accessibility

For emergencies, wicket doors offer a fast exit point. Many models meet UK safety standards and can include emergency push bars or anti-panic mechanisms.

6. Space Efficiency

Perfect for tight spaces where swinging external doors aren’t feasible.

7. Cost Savings

Although adding a wicket door increases initial installation cost slightly, it saves money long-term by reducing maintenance and energy losses.

5. Commercial Door Solutions UK: Where Wicket Doors Fit In

In the commercial door solutions UK market, wicket doors are becoming standard across various industries. They combine practicality and compliance with modern building standards.

Industries Benefiting Most:

• Retail & Shopfronts:For after-hours entry without raising the full shutter.
• Logistics & Warehouses:Frequent personnel movement without interrupting loading operations.
• Manufacturing Plants:Quick staff movement between zones.
• Car Parks & Garages:Driver or maintenance access.
• Cold Storage:To maintain temperature control while allowing staff movement.

For any facility balancing security and convenience, wicket doors provide the perfect middle ground.

6. Design & Construction of Wicket Doors

Materials Used

Most wicket doors in roller shutters and sectional overhead doors are made from the same material as the main door for consistent strength and design. Common materials include:

• Galvanized Steel:Provides excellent security and durability.
• Aluminium:Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, ideal for coastal or damp environments.
• Insulated Panels:Often used in sectional overhead doors for thermal efficiency.

Standard Features:

• Reinforced frame and hinges.
• Integrated locking system (manual or electronic).
• Threshold options (flat, raised, or removable).
• Weather seals and drainage channels.

Optional Add-ons:

• Vision panels or windows.
• Panic bars or emergency escape mechanisms.
• Access control systems (keypad, RFID, or biometric).
• Door closers or hold-open devices.

7. Types of Wicket Doors

Depending on the installation and operational needs, wicket doors come in different configurations.

a. Built-In Wicket Doors

These are integrated during the manufacturing process and designed as part of the shutter or overhead door structure.
 Best For: New installations or full door replacements.
 Pros: Seamless appearance, factory-tested alignment, and warranty support.

b. Retrofit Wicket Doors

Installed into an existing roller shutter or overhead door.
 Best For: Upgrading old doors without full replacement.
 Pros: Cost-effective and adaptable.
 Cons: May require modifications to the shutter slats or panels.

c. Low-Threshold Wicket Doors

Feature minimal or no raised threshold for wheelchair or trolley access.
 Ideal For: Retail stores, public buildings, or areas complying with accessibility standards.

d. High-Threshold Wicket Doors

Include a raised sill to improve weather sealing and water resistance.
 Ideal For: Industrial or outdoor applications exposed to rain and debris.

8. Installing Wicket Doors in Shopfronts

Why Add Wicket Doors to Shopfront Roller Shutters?

Shopfronts are the public face of a business. Installing wicket doors in shopfronts provides a secure entry point for staff and deliveries without revealing or exposing the entire interior.

Key Benefits for Retail Premises:

• Enables staff entry before store opening or after closing hours.
• Enhances energy efficiency during winter.
• Reduces wear on motors and shutters.
• Improves accessibility for maintenance or emergency exits.

Installation Considerations:

1. Space & Door Size:Ensure enough headroom and width for the wicket door frame.
2. Door Type Compatibility:Some lightweight roller shutters may not support wicket door integration.
3. Compliance with Safety Standards:Must adhere to British Standard EN13241 for industrial door safety.
4. Professional Installation:Always hire certified installers experienced in integrating pedestrian doors into rolling systems.

9. Safety Features of Wicket Doors

Modern wicket doors come equipped with numerous overhead door safety features designed to protect users and ensure compliance with UK regulations.

1. Safety Interlocks

Prevent the main shutter or sectional door from opening when the wicket door is unlocked or open, avoiding accidental damage.

2. Panic Hardware

Emergency push bars allow quick exit during fire or power failure.

3. Self-Closing Hinges

Ensure the door closes automatically after use, maintaining security and insulation.

4. Low-Threshold Design

Reduces tripping hazards and improves accessibility.

5. Reinforced Frames

Strengthened steel or aluminium frames prevent warping or bending during use.

6. Electrical Safety

Motorised systems include automatic cut-offs to prevent activation while the wicket door is open.

By incorporating these overhead door safety features, businesses protect both their property and personnel.

10. Installation Process Overview

Adding a wicket door to a roller shutter or sectional overhead door requires precision and adherence to safety standards. Below is an overview of the general process:

Step 1: Assessment and Measurements

The installer evaluates the existing door type, available space, and optimal position for the wicket door.

Step 2: Fabrication

The wicket door is custom-built to match the main door’s slats or panels. Reinforcements and seals are added during fabrication.

Step 3: Door Cutting and Frame Integration

A section of the main door is carefully cut, and a reinforced frame is welded or bolted into place.

Step 4: Hardware Installation

Hinges, locks, seals, and safety sensors are installed. For sectional doors, torsion spring balance is recalibrated.

Step 5: Testing

The door is tested for proper alignment, smooth operation, and compliance with safety interlocks.

Step 6: Certification

Once installed, the door should be inspected and certified under EN13241 for safe use.

11. Maintenance of Wicket Doors

Proper maintenance ensures longevity and reliability.

Routine Checks:

• Inspect Hinges & Locks:Lubricate regularly and check for wear.
• Clean Seals & Thresholds:Prevent debris accumulation that could cause jamming.
• Test Safety Interlocks:Ensure the shutter won’t operate with the wicket door open.
• Check Alignment:Misaligned frames can affect insulation and safety.

Annual Professional Servicing

A certified technician should service your roller shutter wicket door annually to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

12. Design Considerations for Aesthetics and Functionality

Colour & Finish

Powder-coated finishes can match brand colours or building design. For shopfronts, wicket doors can blend seamlessly with the roller shutter.

Window Panels

Optional glazed or polycarbonate windows provide visibility and light while maintaining security.

Brand Integration

For retail or corporate spaces, wicket doors can include branding elements like logos or vinyl prints.

Lighting & Accessibility

Adding motion-sensor lighting or illuminated handles improves usability at night or in low-visibility areas.

13. Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. DIY Installation:Always hire professionals to avoid alignment or safety issues.
2. Ignoring Safety Interlocks:Can cause damage if the shutter is activated while the wicket door is open.
3. Poor Seal Maintenance:Leads to drafts, leaks, and water ingress.
4. Incorrect Placement:The wicket door should be positioned for optimal traffic flow and safety.
5. Using Inferior Materials:Cheap metals corrode quickly, especially in coastal or industrial areas.

14. Future Trends in Wicket Door Design

As technology evolves, commercial door solutions UK are incorporating advanced features for performance and convenience:

• Smart Locks:RFID or app-based access control for enhanced security.
• Automated Sensors:Detect presence and open the wicket door automatically.
• Sustainability:Use of eco-friendly, recyclable materials in door panels.
• Thermal Insulation Upgrades:For energy-efficient buildings.
• Advanced Safety Systems:Interconnected with fire alarms or security systems.

These innovations make wicket doors not just a practical feature but an integral part of intelligent building design.

15. Why Wicket Doors Are a Smart Investment

Adding a wicket door in a roller shutter or sectional overhead door is more than just a convenience feature, it’s a smart business decision. It enhances workflow efficiency, strengthens security, and reduces operational costs.

Key Takeaways:

• Enables pedestrian access in roller shutterswithout full operation.
• Improves energy efficiencyand safety compliance.
• Reduces wear and maintenance costson large doors.
• Enhances functionality and professional appearancefor commercial properties.

Whether for warehouses, garages, or retail stores, wicket doors provide the ideal blend of functionality, safety, and aesthetics.

Conclusion

In today’s competitive commercial landscape, property owners seek solutions that maximize efficiency without compromising security. Wicket doors in roller shutters and sectional overhead doors offer exactly that, seamless pedestrian access, enhanced safety, and long-term cost savings.

From installing wicket doors in shopfronts to upgrading industrial overhead systems, these doors are an essential part of modern commercial door solutions UK. Their innovative overhead door safety features, combined with energy efficiency and practicality, make them indispensable for any business seeking smarter access control.

Whether you’re upgrading an existing system or planning a new installation, investing in a well-designed roller shutter wicket door ensures convenience, safety, and superior performance for years to come.