What are door levels and models?

Levels and Models (covered in ANSI A250.8 (SDI 100) "Recommended Specifications for Standard Steel Doors and Frames") are SDI term aid in the selection and specification process for the steel doors and frames.

Level - describes the degree of durability needed for a give commercial application and mainly designate the thickness of the steel face sheet.

• Face (face sheet) is defined as the surface of door exposed to view when closed
   
• Doors are available with the following steel face sheets
  • 20 gage = 0.035" (0.81mm)
  • 18 gage = 0.042" (1.06mm)
  • 16 gage = 0.053" (1.34mm)
  • 14 gage = 0.067" (1.70mm)

1. Level 1 - designates a Light Commercial door opening
   • 20 gage doors
   • 18 gage frame minimum
2. Level 2 - designates a Heavy Duty Commercial door opening
   • 18 gage doors
   • 16 gage frame minimum
3. Level 3 - designates a Extra Heavy Duty Commercial door opening
   • 16 gage doors
   • 14 gage frame minimum
4. Level 4 - designates a maximum Duty Commercial door opening
   • 14 gage doors 
   • 14 gage frame minimum

Model - describes the vertical door edge treatment

1. Model 1 – Full Flush Edge
   • Full height vertical seam is permitted on door edges
2. Model 2 – Seamless Edge (options as follows)
   • vertical seam edge filled, dressed smooth
   • Intermittently welded seams, edge filled, dressed smooth

Continuously welded seam dressed smooth

Examples of Level and Model designations:

1. Level 1, Model 1 designation = L20-Series door in a DW16-Series frame
2. Level 2, Model 1 designation = L18-Series door in a F16-Series frame
3. Level 3, Model 2 designation = B16-Series door in a F14-Series frame
4. Level 4, model 2 designation = LW16-Series door in a F14-Series frame

To determine which Steelcraft door/frame construction or SDI level and model designation to specify, refer to the section and usage guides in the notes below.