Coordinating Hangar Door Installation with Other Trades
Aircraft hangar construction is a complex orchestration of multiple trades working in sequence. One of the most critical—and often underestimated—aspects of this process is coordinating the hangar door installation with surrounding scopes. Given the size, structural demands, and unique requirements of these doors, proper coordination can be the difference between a smooth project and costly delays.
Understand the Installation Timeline and Trade Dependencies
Hangar door installation impacts multiple trades and occurs in clearly defined phases throughout the construction process. Understanding the sequence of work and who is responsible at each stage helps prevent conflicts, avoid delays, and reduce costly rework.
Hangar door installation is typically performed in multiple mobilizations. The following outlines the typical sequence for hangar door installation.
Note: This is a general sequence only — not all activities listed are performed by the hangar door installer. Certain steps are the responsibility of other trades (e.g., concrete work, drainage systems), and should be coordinated accordingly.
Mobilization 1 — Foundation Phase:
- Install leveling angles and ASCE bottom rail.
- J-bolts are either wet-set or drilled and epoxied into the first pour of the foundation.
- With j-bolts secured, the leveling angles and bottom rail are installed.
- Any rail drainage and optional rail heating systems must be installed afterwards.
- The final concrete pour is completed around the rail .
Mobilization 2 – After Building Erection & Roof Completion:
- Install top guide rails, door leaves, and partial weather seal.
- Once the roof is installed and fully loaded, the top guide rails are installed.
- Door leaves are assembled and erected—either inside or outside the building, depending on available space and logistics. A laydown area in front of the opening is required for safe assembly; space requirements must be coordinated prior to mobilization.
- Partial weather seals are installed at this stage, as needed, before the door is sheeted.
- If an interior liner panel is planned, door controls must be installed at this stage.
- Tail door (if ordered) will be installed during this stage.
Mobilization 3- After hangar door is sheeted:
- Install electrical components, remaining weather seals, and field wiring.
- Install remaining weather seals.
- Install motors, limit switches, overhead power, and other related components.
- Install conduit and wiring. (see “Field Wiring” section for details)
- Test and commission the door system, and provide on-site owner training.
Field wiring is sometimes performed by the site electrician; in other cases, it falls under the hangar door installers scope. This work may include:
- Installation of EMT conduit, fittings, junction boxes, and wiring on the door
- Electrical configuration and testing of motors, controls, and limit switches
- Integration of components on the door system itself
Important: Floating door configurations are significantly more complex than unidirectional or bi-parting systems. They require careful planning and sequencing for conduit routing, limit switch setup, and controls both inside and outside the hangar door. Anyone responsible for wiring a floating door must have relevant experience to ensure reliable performance and proper system integration.
Note: Power to the door opening must still be provided by others. Explosion-proof systems are typically excluded.
To avoid confusion or delays, clearly define responsibilities between the hangar door supplier and other trades. The following elements are commonly excluded from the door installer’s scope:
- Installation of anchor bolts (even when supplied by the manufacturer)
- Concrete work and finishing around the bottom rail
- Rail drainage or heating systems
- Vertical and horizontal supports for top guide rails
- Soffit closure plates, except when included by the door manufacturer
- Exterior sheeting, insulation, liner panels, flashing, and trim
- Walk doors, windows, exit signs, vents, and signage
- Finish painting or specialty coatings
- Power to the door opening
- Connections to third-party systems (e.g., fire suppression, HVAC)
Avoiding Trade Conflicts
To keep the project on schedule, coordinate early with any trade working in or around the hangar door area. Common issues include:
- Plumbing or heating trades needing access after bottom rail installation
- Electrical teams unsure of power locations or conduit routing
- Lighting, sprinkler systems, or ductwork interfering with door travel
- Installation of access control or security systems without reviewing the hangar door electrical submittals
A brief coordination meeting after each major phase can prevent delays and eliminate rework.
Summary
Hangar door installation isn’t just a bolt-on activity—it impacts nearly every trade on site. By understanding the installation phases, clarifying scope boundaries, and proactively coordinating with other contractors, you’ll ensure a clean install and a reliable door system that supports your hangar’s long-term functionality.
To discuss your project in more detail, contact Paul Blake at +1.866.226.3667
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