3 Common Doorstop Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Avoiding Common Doorstop Mistakes
Everyone loves a brilliant hack! From repurposing household items to clever DIY solutions, small changes can make life easier. One such overlooked tool is the humble doorstop - an essential item that can improve convenience, safety and even security in your home or office.
You may have read our previous blog about Keeping Your College Kids Safe, which discusses how something as simple as a doorstop can increase your child’s safety. This time, we’ll expand the discussion to include ways to use doorstops in your home or office
The Role of Doorstops in Your Home or Office
Doorstops are pretty much self-explanatory as their main purpose is to stop doors from moving. For example, propping a door open when you need to carry several bags of groceries into the house. The doorstop creates convenience because you don’t have to stop and put the bags down to open the door every time you walk inside.
A doorstop is also useful when windows are open on a windy day; you want to enjoy the fresh air without having to worry about a door slamming shut. This use of a doorstop protects children or pets from potential injury while also reduces the risk of a loud “SLAM” that could startle you right off your seat.
In addition to keeping doors open, a doorstop can also help keep a door closed. In conjunction with existing door locks and bolts, a doorstop can be used as a basic security measure against intruders. Firmly wedging a doorstop on the inside of the room, between the door and the floor, can make it significantly harder for someone to force their way in. And since doorstops are relatively small, they’re easy to travel with to use in hotel rooms for added peace of mind, especially when traveling alone.
Common Doorstop Mistakes to Avoid
At first glance, a doorstop looks like it would be a “no brainer” to use, but understanding the basics on how a doorstop works can help prevent avoidable mistakes like improper placement and using the wrong size or material. Here is more information about common doorstop mistakes so you can make informed decisions.
● Incorrect Size: Choosing a doorstop that is too small means it might not be effective at preventing the door from moving. A doorstop that is too large could create a tripping hazard or even damage the door. The size of the gap at the bottom of your door will help determine the proper size of the doorstop needed.
● Wrong Material: Doorstops are commonly made from wood, rubber, fabric, stainless steel, or plastic. These options allow you to select a material best suitable for the type of door and floor. For example, rubber wedge doorstops are a great choice for hardwood floors because they will not scratch. The goal is to select a doorstop that will secure the door without collapsing, slipping, or marking your floors.
● Poor Placement: Placing a doorstop in a location that obstructs traffic flow can become a pain for those who are forced to walk around it, or risk tripping. While commonly placed under the bottom edge of a door, some wedge doorstops are designed to also be used on top of a door, between the door and door jamb. You can determine which option is best based on the traffic flow going in and out of the room.
MAGNETIC
Attaches easily to any metal surface. Unique design will not scratch or mark floors, walls, or doors.
COLORSTOPS
Extra-wide footprint holds doors securely in any position.
Choosing the Right Doorstop
When choosing the right doorstop for your door, consider the weight of the door, how often it is used, and where the door is located. As expected, heavier doors require more durable doorstops. If the door is expected to be opened and closed often, choose a doorstop that can withstand excessive use. Two common doorstop options are wedge and quick release door jams.
Rubber Wedge Doorstop
Since wedge doorstops are not fixed, they can be used to hold a door either fully, or partially, open for various purposes like ventilation or general access.
● Cost-effective and easy to use
● No installation, portable
● Popular simple and quick solution
● Placed and removed in seconds
Quick Release Door Jam
These products insert into a door’s hinge side to provide rapid access by enabling a door to be opened or closed with minimal effort, allowing a quick escape in case of an emergency.
● Great for self-closing doors
● Hands-free entry and exit
● Peel and stick adhesive for easy installation
● Access at any height
Whether you’re looking for convenience, safety, or security, choosing the right doorstop can make all the difference. Avoid common mistakes by selecting the right size, material, and placement for your needs—and enjoy peace of mind knowing your doors are secure.
View our doorstop selection to find out more.
