Introduction
When a pair of doors need to close in a specific order to function properly, a door coordinator is the hardware that makes it happen. These devices are typically used when one door depends on the other being closed first—like when there are levers, locks, automatic flush bolts, vertical rod exit devices, or overlapping hardware like astragals involved. Without a coordinator, the doors may not latch correctly and could be left partially open, which can cause serious issues in both security and emergency situations where both leaves must close fully to maintain the door’s fire, smoke, and security performance.
There are a few different types of door coordinators, each designed to suit different applications and door conditions. Knowing which one to use—and how it works—can make all the difference in the performance and code compliance of your opening. In the sections below, we’ll break down the two most common types: the soffit-mounted bar-style coordinator and the gravity coordinator, so you can choose the right solution with confidence.
Gravity Coordinators
A gravity coordinator is a simple, reliable device mounted to the face of the frame above the doors, typically on the pull side. It’s a visible, surface-mounted unit that uses a pivoting arm and a weighted mechanism to control the closing order of the door leaves, and holds the active leaf open until the inactive leaf closes. As the inactive leaf nears its fully closed position, it pushes the arm upward, releasing the active leaf to close and latch.
Gravity coordinators are most often used in back-of-house, industrial, or utility spaces where function matters more than appearance. They are easy to install with a few screws into the frame, forgiving in alignment, and generally more economical than other types—making them ideal for heavy-use areas or projects with tighter budgets.
Soffit/Bar/Surface Coordinators
A soffit coordinator, sometimes called a bar coordinator, is a sleek, concealed unit mounted in the underside (soffit) of the door frame between the two leaves. Unlike the bulkier appearance of a gravity type, the soffit coordinator’s slim profile blends seamlessly into the opening, making it the go-to choice for high-visibility locations like office lobbies, public entrances, and architectural spaces where aesthetics matter. It uses a projecting lever at the edge of the coordinator to hold the active leaf open while the inactive leaf closes. As the inactive leaf reaches its closed position, it compresses a trigger that releases the lever, allowing the active leaf to close and latch.
Because it’s recessed into the frame, a soffit coordinator is less likely to be damaged by carts or equipment passing through the doorway, and it’s well-suited for openings with tight clearances where a gravity arm might snag. The concealed design not only offers a cleaner look, but also helps maintain the smooth, consistent sequencing needed for proper door operation. Installation calls for more precise measuring and alignment than a gravity type, and they generally come at a higher cost, but the payoff is a durable, discreet solution that performs reliably in spaces where both appearance and function are priorities.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right door coordinator is key to ensuring your paired doors operate smoothly, safely, and reliably. Whether you prioritize a simple, cost-effective solution with a gravity coordinator or a more discreet, high-visibility option with a soffit coordinator, understanding how each type works and where it’s best applied will help you make the right decision for your space. If you have any questions, or aren’t quite sure which coordinator is best for your project, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’d be happy to guide you and provide the support you need.
