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Checklist for Choosing Magnetic Door Stops

by Shopify API on Feb 24, 2025

Checklist for Choosing Magnetic Door Stops

Magnetic door stops are a practical way to protect doors and walls while adding style to your space. Here's a quick guide to selecting the right one:

  • Style and Finish: Match the door stop's design and finish (e.g., brushed metal, matte black, chrome) with your interior hardware.
  • Magnetic Strength: Choose the right pull force based on door type:
    • Internal doors: ~300kg
    • External/security doors: 500kg+
  • Material Durability: Opt for stainless steel or rubber-coated magnets for weather resistance in outdoor or humid areas.
  • Installation Needs: Ensure compatibility with your door material (e.g., wood, metal) and mounting surface.
  • Design Options: Decide between visible or concealed models for aesthetics and functionality.

Quick Comparison

Model Design Type Pull Force Material Best Use Case Price Range
Deltana MDH30 Wall/Door Mount 7-15 lb Brass Indoor $25-35
DSM125U32x Floor Mount 7-15 lb Stainless Steel Indoor/Outdoor $35-45
StealthStop Floor Mount 15-25 lb Stainless Steel All environments $34.89

Magnetic door stops are easy to install, durable, and available in various styles to suit your needs. Follow the checklist above to select the best option for your space.

Selection Criteria for Magnetic Door Stops

Style and Appearance

When selecting a magnetic door stop, focus on how it complements your interior design. Many modern options now feature sleek and minimalist designs that blend well with contemporary decor. For instance, the StealthStop Invisible Magnetic Door Stopper offers a stainless steel finish that maintains a clean and discreet look.

Pay attention to the finish of the door stop and how it pairs with your existing hardware, such as door handles and hinges. Popular finishes include brushed metal, chrome, and matte black. Once the style is sorted, make sure the stop delivers reliable performance.

Magnet Power and Build Quality

Style matters, but performance is just as important. The magnetic strength determines how effective the door stop will be. For internal doors, a holding force of 300kg is recommended . For external doors or areas requiring higher security, a holding force of at least 500kg is ideal .

Here are some key factors to consider:

Door Type Recommended Holding Force Notes
Internal Doors 300kg Suitable for basic hold-open
Security Doors 500kg+ Ideal for restricted areas
External Doors 500kg+ Best for primary security

Keep in mind that the shear force (the resistance to sideways sliding) is typically about half of the magnetic attraction force . This is especially important for doors that may face lateral stress.

Door and Surface Requirements

If you're dealing with bi-folding doors, wide single doors (over 850mm), or doors in windy areas, heavy-duty magnetic stops are a better choice. These should be mounted carefully at strategic points for maximum effectiveness.

The mounting surface is another critical factor. It must allow for flush contact to ensure the magnet works properly. Different door materials often require specific mounting hardware. For example, Crittall doors with smaller frames may need specialized screws.

Proper installation is key to achieving the best results.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consider hiring a professional for installation.

If you're unsure, sending photos of your door and setup to a specialist can help you get tailored advice on compatibility and performance.

Must-Have Door Stop Features

Water and Weather Protection

If you're using a door stop outdoors or in damp areas, water resistance is a must. The best options are made with protective coatings and materials like stainless steel or rubber-coated magnets to resist rust and wear over time.

"The power in the magnet is perfect. It can easily withstand strong winds" - Thue

Here’s a quick breakdown of materials and their weather resistance:

Material Type Weather Resistance Best Use Case
Rubber Magnets High Outdoor/humid areas
Stainless Steel Excellent All environments
Plastic-Coated Good Indoor/covered areas

While durability is key, don't overlook how easy it is to install.

Simple Installation Steps

Most door stops come with two parts - one for the door and another for the wall or floor - along with hardware designed for different door materials. For instance, wood screws work best with wooden doors, while self-tapping screws are ideal for metal doors .

Take the StealthStop Invisible Magnetic Door Stopper as an example. It includes all necessary hardware and takes just three minutes to install, making it incredibly user-friendly.

This simplicity pairs perfectly with modern design trends.

Modern Design Options

Today's door stops do more than just hold doors - they look great doing it. Options now include finishes like polished chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, satin nickel, antique brass, polished brass, matte black, and brushed metal.

The material quality plays a big role here. Premium door stops are often made from solid brass, zinc, or stainless steel . For those who prefer a subtle look, concealed models like the StealthStop invisible design keep your space sleek while still providing dependable door control.

These features combine style and durability, making it easier to compare products and find the right fit for your needs.

Magnetic Door Stop - Review & Install

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Door Stop Model Comparison

Small design and functionality tweaks can impact how well a door stop performs. Below is a chart comparing popular models based on testing and specifications, followed by insights into their standout features.

Product Comparison Chart

Model Design Type Pull Force Material Best Use Case Notable Features Price Range*
Deltana MDH30 Wall/Door Mount 7-15 lb Brass Indoor Spring-loaded cushion, 9 finishes $25-35
Deltana MDH35 Wall/Door Mount 15-25 lb Brass Heavy doors Heavy-duty version, impact absorption $35-45
Deltana DSM125 Floor Mount 7-15 lb Brass Indoor/Office Dome style, 9 finishes $30-40
DSM125U32x Floor Mount 7-15 lb Stainless Steel Indoor/Outdoor Weather resistant $35-45
StealthStop Floor Mount 15-25 lb Stainless Steel All environments Invisible design, waterproof $34.89
Deltana MDHF25 Floor Mount 5-10 lb Brass Light doors Low profile, flush mounting $25-35

*Price ranges are approximate and may vary by retailer.

K&J Magnetics testing suggests that stops with a 7-15 lb pull force (even when listed as 15-25 lb) tend to deliver the best results for most setups .

"The actual results depend on your door and your setup, but starting with magnets listed in the 10-25 lb range might be a good place to start."

The Deltana MDH30 and MDH35 stand out for their spring-loaded cushioning and flexible mounting options . Meanwhile, the DSM125U32x is built with stainless steel for excellent weather resistance, making it a solid choice for outdoor use.

One thing to watch for: plain neodymium magnets can chip with repeated impacts because of their brittle nature . For high-traffic or commercial spaces, models like StealthStop are a better option. They combine strength, a discreet design, and a robust neodymium magnet encased in stainless steel.

Keep in mind that magnetic stops aren't ideal for doors with closers or outdoor gates in windy environments. In those cases, mechanical latches are a more reliable choice .

Door Stop Selection Checklist

Use this checklist to choose the right magnetic door stop for your needs. Follow these steps to ensure a secure and stylish installation.

Selection Steps

  1. Evaluate Your Door and Its Environment Take into account:
    • Door weight, material, and whether it's hollow or solid.
    • Indoor or outdoor placement.
    • Temperature conditions and whether a door closer is installed.
    Tip: For hollow-core doors, mount the stop within 3 inches of the edge. If the door has a closer, opt for a mechanical hold-open device instead of a magnetic stop.
  2. Decide on the Mounting Location Choose a mounting option that fits your space:
    • Floor mounting: Helps prevent wall damage.
    • Wall mounting: Ideal for areas with limited floor space.
    • Door mounting: Works well for specific architectural needs.
    Look for products that offer flexible mounting options to suit your setup.
  3. Determine the Magnetic Strength Match the door's weight and usage with the magnetic pull force recommended by the manufacturer.
  4. Account for Environmental Conditions For outdoor or moisture-prone locations:
    • Pick materials like stainless steel or corrosion-resistant finishes.
    • Ensure the product has waterproof or weather-resistant ratings.
    • Keep in mind that temperature can affect magnet performance.
  5. Check Installation Requirements Confirm there is enough clearance, that the mounting surface is compatible, and that you have all the necessary hardware.
  6. Focus on Design and Aesthetics Select a design that fits your preferences:
    • Decide between visible or hidden designs.
    • Match the finish with your existing hardware.
    • Opt for a low-profile design if needed.
  7. Set a Budget Compare features and prices to find a balance between cost and functionality.
  8. Look for Additional Features Consider extras like:
    • Spring-loaded cushioning for added protection.
    • Low-profile designs to minimize bulk.
    • Weather-resistant coatings for durability.

Proper installation is key to ensuring the door stop works effectively and safely. Be sure to position it in a way that avoids creating a tripping hazard .

Summary

Choosing the right magnetic door stop helps protect your property while adding to the overall look of your space. A good door stop prevents damage to walls and avoids loud door slams, preserving both your interiors and peace of mind.

Modern magnetic door stops are designed to be both functional and stylish. Take the StealthStop Invisible Magnetic Door Stopper, for example. Made from stainless steel with a hidden design, it’s a great fit for contemporary spaces where clean, minimalist lines are a priority.

When selecting a magnetic door stop, keep these factors in mind:

  • Material Durability: Opt for corrosion-resistant materials, especially for outdoor use or areas with high moisture.
  • Ease of Installation: Look for options with versatile mounting methods to fit your setup.
  • Style Matching: Choose designs that align with your existing hardware and décor.

For those seeking sleek and safe options, concealed magnetic door stops are a smart choice. They not only perform well but also reduce trip hazards . Advances in magnetic technology, like the use of neodymium magnets, ensure these stops can hold doors securely, even in spaces with vibrations or drafts .

Installing the door stop correctly is key to maintaining its performance over time.

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