Automatic Doors: Sliding, Swing & Glass Entrance Systems UK

London City Group designs, manufactures, and installs automatic doors for commercial and residential buildings across the UK. From automatic sliding doors to swing aluminium doors and glass entrance systems, we deliver reliable access solutions built for daily heavy use. Our team handles everything from consultation to installation and aftercare.

What Is an Automatic Door and How Does It Work?

An automatic door opens and closes using motorised operators triggered by sensors, push buttons, or access control systems. These doors improve accessibility, reduce draughts, and create a smooth entrance experience for staff, customers, and visitors.

Most systems use motion sensors or infrared beams to detect movement, sending a signal to the motor unit that drives the door mechanism. Modern automatic doors also integrate with fire alarms, intercoms, and building security systems.

Common Applications for Automatic Doors

• Retail shopfronts and shopping centres
• Office receptions and building entrances
• Hospitals, clinics, and care homes
• Hotels, restaurants, and leisure venues
• Warehouses and industrial premises

What Types of Automatic Doors Are Available?

The main types include automatic sliding doors, swing aluminium doors, and glass sliding doors, each suited to different traffic levels and building designs. Choosing the right type depends on footfall, space, and accessibility requirements.

Automatic Sliding Doors

Sliding doors are the most popular choice for high-traffic entrances such as shops, offices, and public buildings. They open horizontally along a track, saving floor space and allowing wide, unobstructed access for prams, wheelchairs, and trolleys.

These doors are ideal where a continuous flow of people needs quick, hands-free entry. They also support energy efficiency, as many models close quickly to reduce heat loss.

Automatic Swing Aluminium Doors

Swing doors open on a hinge, either inward or outward, and are well suited to entrances with lower footfall or narrower openings. Aluminium framing makes them lightweight yet strong, with a clean, modern finish that suits most building styles.

Automatic swing doors are commonly fitted with low-energy operators, making them compliant with accessibility standards while keeping running costs down.

Automatic Glass Sliding Doors

Glass sliding doors combine automation with a sleek, transparent design that maximises natural light and visibility. They are widely used in retail shopfronts, showrooms, and corporate entrances where appearance matters as much as function.

Toughened safety glass is standard, giving strength and durability without compromising on the open, welcoming look many businesses want.

Why Choose an Automatic Building Entrance Door?

Automatic entrance doors improve accessibility, security, and energy efficiency compared to manual doors. They also create a more professional first impression for customers and visitors.

Accessibility and Compliance

Automatic doors support compliance with UK accessibility regulations by providing step-free, hands-free access for wheelchair users, parents with pushchairs, and elderly visitors. This makes them a practical choice for public-facing buildings.

Energy Efficiency and Climate Control

Doors that open only when needed and close promptly afterwards help maintain internal temperature and reduce heating or cooling costs. This is particularly valuable for retail units and offices with constant footfall.

Security and Access Control

Automatic doors can be integrated with access control systems, keypads, or intercoms to manage who enters a building and when. This adds a layer of security beyond what standard manual doors provide.

How Do You Choose the Right Automatic Door for Your Building?

The right automatic door depends on footfall, available space, budget, and the level of security or accessibility required. A short site assessment usually clarifies which system will perform best.

• High footfall entrances: automatic sliding doors are usually the most practical option.
• Narrow or period-style openings: swing aluminium doors often fit better structurally.
• Retail and showroom fronts: glass sliding doors combine automation with visual appeal.
• Security-sensitive buildings: systems with integrated access control are recommended.

How Are Automatic Doors Installed and Maintained?

Installation involves surveying the opening, fitting the frame and motor system, and calibrating sensors before final testing. Ongoing maintenance keeps the door safe, compliant, and running smoothly for years.

Installation Process

Our engineers assess the building structure, power supply, and intended usage before recommending a suitable door system. Installation is carried out with minimal disruption, and doors are tested thoroughly before handover.

Maintenance and Servicing

Regular servicing checks sensors, motors, tracks, and safety features to prevent breakdowns and extend the lifespan of the door. Scheduled maintenance also helps ensure automatic doors remain compliant with relevant safety standards.

Do Automatic Doors Work for Both New Builds and Refurbishments?

Yes, automat