Due to their many similarities, both slat and sheet steel roll-up doors share competitive advantages in the market that make them a superior choice in the door industry. This is because they’re made from quality steel, operate with similar functionality and space, and have a long preforming, easily sustainable life cycle.

But what makes the two doors different and how should you choose between them? That all depends on the product application.

Slat Doors

Slat doors are constructed of narrow thin strips of steel that are interlocked together. More joints create more strength, allowing a slat door to be used in heavy duty applications with frequent and demanding operations. Because slat doors eliminate vulnerability through increased support, they’re ideal for industrial settings that use large and hefty equipment on a consistent basis. These doors are typically seen in industrial buildings involving production, storage, and the distribution of goods.

Slat Doors are the answer if your building requires specific performance needs such as fire rated doors, fire rated shutters, or counter shutters.

Sheet Doors

Sheet doors on the other hand are constructed of larger sections of steel, corrugated and lock seamed together to create one continuous curtain. There are many models of sheet doors, ranging in design to suit different environments. Although sheet doors can be used for a variety of applications, they are typically designed for commercial settings ranging from light to medium duty such as warehouses.

A major benefit to sheet doors is the fact that they’re easy, simple, and quick to install. So not only do roll-up sheet doors save you money in material when comparing them to slat doors, but they save you a significant amount in labor costs as well.

Choosing between the two based on Key Differences

Construction. The biggest difference between slat and sheet steel doors is how they’re constructed. This directly affects both price and application of the two products.

Application. Sheet doors are ideal for commercial settings while slat doors are ideal for industrial settings.

Price. Roll-up sheet doors are significantly less expensive and more affordable than slat doors.

Repair. When it comes to damage, slat doors provide you the ability to fix an individual slat or group of slats if subject to damage. If you were to face the same damage to a roll-up sheet door, generally the entire sheet would have to be replaced. This is typically cost efficient for a slat door if it is faced with minimal damage. If a large section of the slat door is damaged, the more expensive labor and materials will reflect in the repair.