Upgrading Old Automatic Sliding Door Installations Safely: Retrofit vs Full Replacement

When an automatic sliding door starts showing its age, facilities teams often face the same question: do we retrofit the existing system or replace it entirely? Both options have their place, and the right choice depends on budget, safety, and long-term goals. Let’s break down the key considerations.

 

1. Retrofit vs Full Replacement

A retrofit means upgrading the existing door with new components such as operators, sensors, or control units, while keeping the original framework, track, and door leaf. It’s a practical way of modernising without tearing everything out, making it especially appealing when budgets are tight or disruption needs to be kept to a minimum. In many cases, a retrofit can breathe new life into an older installation and bring it closer to modern standards.

Full replacement, on the other hand, involves taking out the entire system and installing a brand-new unit. This is usually the right choice if the old system has reached the end of its useful life or if compliance requirements simply can’t be met by upgrading. It’s a bigger investment and a more disruptive process, but it delivers a clean slate with the latest technology and a full manufacturer warranty.

2. Cost Comparison

Cost is often the first factor people think about. Retrofitting tends to be cheaper upfront, because much of the original structure is reused. Less material, less labour, and less disruption usually means a smaller invoice. That makes retrofits particularly attractive when multiple doors across a site need upgrading at once.

Full replacements cost more initially, but the picture changes when you look at the bigger picture. A new installation typically means lower repair bills, fewer callouts, and improved performance. Over time, especially on high-traffic doors, the reliability and efficiency gains can outweigh the higher upfront spend.

3. Downtime Considerations

One of the big advantages of a retrofit is speed. In many cases, installers can carry out the work in just a few hours, meaning little disruption to the flow of people through the building. For busy sites like hospitals, schools, or shopping centres, that quick turnaround can make all the difference.

A full replacement takes longer. Removing the old unit, preparing the opening, and fitting the new system can stretch over several days. That often means rerouting access, putting up temporary barriers, or even partial closures. It’s manageable, but it needs careful planning so day-to-day operations aren’t thrown off course.

4. Compliance Requirements

Safety and compliance can’t be overlooked. Standards such as BS EN 16005 set strict rules for automatic doors, and whether you retrofit or replace, the system must comply. Sometimes a retrofit with modern sensors and safety devices is enough to bring an older door in line with today’s requirements.

But in other cases—especially with very old systems—the only way to guarantee compliance is a full replacement. Each door should be assessed on its own merits, ideally with advice from a technical specialist who knows the standards inside out.

5. Aesthetic & Brand Impact

An entrance says a lot about a building. Retrofitting keeps the existing framework, which can be important for heritage sites or branded environments where the look and feel need to stay consistent. In these cases, upgrading the internals while leaving the visible structure untouched can be the ideal balance.

If the doors are visibly scratched, dented, or simply dated, though, a retrofit might not go far enough. A full replacement delivers a completely fresh look and ensures the entrance matches modern design standards. For many customer-facing businesses, the professional image created by a new installation more than justifies the cost.

6. Performance Gains

Modern automatic operators are smoother, quieter, and more energy-efficient than older models. Retrofitting them into an existing system can make a noticeable difference to both performance and user comfort—as long as the running gear and other original parts are still in good condition.

A full replacement goes further. With everything brand new, you benefit from the latest technology across the board, from smart activation methods to advanced safety sensors. For high-footfall environments, this improved performance and reliability often makes replacement the clear choice.

7. Longevity of Solution

A retrofit can extend the life of an existing door by several years, spreading costs over a longer period. It’s a sensible option when the structure is sound but the mechanics are out of date. The caveat is that any original parts you keep—such as tracks or carriage wheels—may wear out sooner than the new components, so future repairs could still be required.

A replacement, by contrast, resets the clock entirely. With a new system, you get a full warranty and the reassurance that everything has been designed to work together. For organisations focused on long-term planning, this reliability often makes replacement the more cost-effective route.

8. Hidden Costs

On paper, a retrofit is usually the cheaper option—but hidden costs can crop up. Modifying wiring, fitting new safety devices, or repairing old components that weren’t part of the kit can all add up. A common example is the original carriage wheels, which may wear down and fail soon after a retrofit unless they’re replaced.

Replacements also carry extra costs, from disposal of the old system to possible structural work on the building. The upside, however, is predictability: once it’s installed, everything is new, under warranty, and less likely to spring nasty surprises.

9. Decision-Making Framework

So, how do you decide? Start with the age of the system, its compliance status, and how reliable it’s been in recent years. If it’s under ten years old and the frame is sound, a retrofit is usually a safe bet. If it’s over twenty and breaking down regularly, replacement is probably more sensible.

Traffic levels matter too. Public buildings with heavy daily use may justify replacement sooner, simply to reduce safety risks and avoid liability. Lower-traffic environments, on the other hand, may get excellent value from a retrofit that buys another five to ten years of service.

 Taking the Next Step

Both retrofit and replacement have their place, and the right choice depends on balancing safety, cost, and performance. The key is not to cut corners—compliance and reliability should always come first.

If you’re weighing up options, the best next step is to speak with a trusted supplier. They can help assess your doors, walk you through retrofit kits and replacement systems, and recommend the right solution for your site. That way, you can move forward confidently, knowing your entrances are safe, compliant, and built to last.