Door Closers

Black Size 2-5 Door Closer & Cover, from our current range.

What is a door closer?

A door closer is a mechanism, usually mounted at the top of the door and frame, that closes a door automatically after it has been opened. Most closers use a hydraulic mechanism to control the speed of closing, so the door shuts firmly but without slamming. Door closers are best known as a required part of fire door installations, where the door must close and latch fully on its own to maintain the fire compartment, but they are also used more generally on commercial doors that need to stay shut between uses.

Closers are sold with a power size rating, typically from size 2 to size 6, which needs to be matched to the width and weight of the door for the closer to work correctly and comply with fire door requirements where relevant.

Where door closers are used

• Fire doors – a certified closer is a mandatory part of almost every fire door installation, ensuring the door closes and latches automatically
• Communal and commercial entrances – closers are used on flats, offices, schools and shops to keep doors shut between uses
• Care homes and healthcare buildings – closers with hold-open or delayed action features are common, often linked to fire alarm systems

Choosing the right door closer

A few practical points are worth checking before you buy:

• Power size – the closer's size rating needs to match your door's width and weight; an undersized closer will not close the door fully
• Fire door certification – if fitting to a fire door, the closer must be tested and certified as part of that door's fire door set
• Hold-open or free swing options – some closers can be set to hold a door open, useful in busy commercial settings, sometimes linked to a fire alarm to release automatically
• Finish and cover – closers are available with a cover to conceal the arm and body, and in finishes to match other door furniture

Related products

Browse our current range of Door Closers, or see the related categories in our Hinges & Door Control Guide and Door Furniture Guide.

Frequently asked questions

Do all fire doors need a door closer?

Almost all fire doors need a certified self-closing device to ensure the door closes and latches fully after use, maintaining the fire compartment. There are limited exceptions for some domestic situations, but in general a closer is required.

What power size closer do I need?

This depends on the width and weight of your door – wider, heavier doors need a higher power size rating. Checking your door's dimensions before ordering, or asking our team, avoids fitting an underpowered closer.

Can a door closer be set to hold a door open?

Yes, many closers offer a hold-open function, and some can be linked to a fire alarm system to release automatically in an emergency, which is common in commercial and communal buildings.

Back to the Door Furniture Guide, or explore the full Knowledge Centre.