The Hands-Free Advantage

COVID heightened hygiene awareness for many. Minimizing touchpoints has become a priority for businesses, especially in high-traffic areas like restaurants. (Just think about how many QR codes we still see around!) Kickplates offer a hands-free solution for opening doors, allowing staff and even customers to use their feet to push doors open, thus avoiding direct contact with potentially germ-ridden handles.

Preserving Cleanliness

Maintaining a clean and presentable appearance is an ongoing challenge for busy restaurants. Doors are one of the most touched surfaces in a restaurant. They're also prone to unsightly marks and damage from shoes, carts, strollers and trays. Kickplates act as a protective shield for the lower part of the door, preventing scuffs and dents and preserving the overall aesthetics of the establishment.

Reducing Germ Transmission

Public health is a top priority in the restaurant industry. Kickplates offer a practical way to reduce the transmission of germs between staff and customers. By using their feet to open doors instead of their hands, individuals can avoid spreading potential contaminants that might be present on doorknobs or handles.

Key Areas for Kickplate Usage in Restaurants

1. Entrance Doors: The main entrance doors are one of the most crucial areas where kickplates are utilized. As customers and staff frequently come in and out, kickplates help maintain the door's appearance and improve hygiene.
2. Kitchen Swing Doors: In busy restaurant kitchens, constant movement of staff is the norm. Kickplates can protect the doors from damage caused by the movement of carts, trays, and trolleys going in and out.
3. Bathroom Doors: Maintaining cleanliness in restroom areas is vital for any restaurant. Kickplates on bathroom doors promote hands-free access, making them a key component in reducing the spread of germs.
4. Storage Room Doors: Restaurants often have storage areas where bulk supplies are stored. Kickplates on these doors help safeguard them from accidental impact and ensure that the supplies remain protected.

The Versatility of Kickplates

Kickplates come in various finishes and sizes, making them versatile enough to match any restaurant's decor and style. Whether your restaurant boasts a sleek modern look or a classic and cozy ambiance, you can find kickplates that seamlessly blend with your interior design.

In the fast-paced and hygiene-conscious restaurant industry, every detail matters. By incorporating kickplates, you can maintain a clean and pristine environment while reducing the risk of germ transmission.

Explore the wide range of kickplate options available to find the perfect fit for your establishment and elevate your restaurant's standards to a new level of excellence. Contact us to get started with your own custom-size push plates or kickplates or call us at 800-517-1056 and speak with our knowledgeable staff. Your doors will thank you! 

Reducing the Spread of Germs

Hospitals are breeding grounds for germs and bacteria due to the high volume of patients, visitors, and staff passing through their doors every day. Hands-free kickplates offer a touchless alternative, allowing individuals to use their feet to activate doors easily.

By eliminating the need for hand contact, hands-free kickplates help break the chain of germ transmission. This is particularly vital during outbreaks of contagious diseases or on hospital floors with immunocompromised patients. Hospitals can significantly reduce the risk of infections and cross-contamination, creating a safer environment for patients and staff alike.

Improving Accessibility

Hospitals cater to a diverse group of people, including elderly individuals, patients with mobility challenges, and those using assistive devices. Hands-free kickplates promote accessibility by offering a convenient and user-friendly solution for opening doors. Patients on crutches, wheelchairs, or with limited hand dexterity can easily access entryways without assistance.

By providing easy accessibility, hospitals enhance the overall patient experience and ensure that everyone can navigate the facility independently. This fosters a sense of empowerment and inclusivity among patients, leading to higher patient satisfaction levels.

Enhancing Hygiene Practices

Regular cleaning and disinfection are essential in hospitals, but frequently touched surfaces can be challenging to keep germ-free. Hands-free kickplates offer a seamless surface that is easier to clean and disinfect effectively. Their touchless nature reduces the number of high-touch points in the hospital, minimizing the risk of surface contamination. By incorporating hands-free kickplates into their facilities, hospitals can elevate their hygiene practices and create a healthier environment for all.

Extending the Life of Doors

Heavy use of doors in hospitals can lead to premature wear and tear, necessitating costly repairs or replacements. Kickplates act as a protective barrier, absorbing impact and shielding doors from damage. They often extend the life of doors, reducing maintenance costs and ensuring that critical hospital entryways remain fully functional at all times.

At our store, we understand the unique needs of hospitals, and we offer a wide range of high-quality hands-free kickplates tailored to meet these requirements. Invest in hands-free kickplates today and take a significant step towards maximizing health and safety in your healthcare facility.

Enhancing the Professional Image

Kickplates, also known as door plates, are protective panels placed at the bottom of doors to prevent damage from foot traffic and moving objects. While their primary function is to protect the door surface, kickplates can also be a stylish addition to your office décor. By selecting kickplates that complement your brand's colors, materials, and overall design language, you can elevate the professional image of your workspace. For example, a sleek stainless steel kickplate can convey a modern and sophisticated vibe, while a wooden kickplate can add warmth and a touch of elegance.

Branding and Customization Options

Kickplates present an excellent opportunity to showcase your brand identity. Consider incorporating your company logo or a custom design onto the kickplate surface. This customization not only adds a unique touch but also reinforces brand recognition among employees and visitors alike. Additionally, you can choose kickplates that feature engraved patterns, textures, or even motivational quotes that align with your company values. By incorporating these branding elements into your kickplate design, you create a cohesive and visually appealing space that reflects your brand's personality and reinforces a sense of belonging among your team.

Durability and Maintenance

While aesthetics are important, it is crucial to prioritize durability and maintenance when selecting kickplates for your office. Look for high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use and require minimal upkeep. For example, stainless steel kickplates are not only visually appealing but also resistant to scratches, dents, and stains. They are easy to clean and maintain, ensuring that your office maintains its pristine appearance over time. Investing in durable kickplates demonstrates your commitment to providing a well-maintained workspace for your employees and visitors.

When it comes to office aesthetics, even the smallest details matter. Kickplates, with their dual function of protecting doors and enhancing style, play an essential role in creating a visually appealing workspace. By carefully considering your branding, customization options, durability, and maintenance requirements, you can select kickplates that not only reflect your brand identity but also contribute to a professional and welcoming office environment. Contact us to get started with your own custom-size kick plates or call us at 800-517-1056 and speak with our knowledgeable staff. Your doors will thank you! 

Retail Stores

In the retail world, foot traffic is a constant presence. Customers come and go, often with their hands full of shopping bags or pushing carts. This can take a toll on your doors, leading to scratches and dents. By installing push plates, you provide a durable layer of protection to the areas most prone to damage – the door's surface. Whether it's a small boutique or a large department store, push plates can save you from the hassle and expense of door repairs or replacements.

Restaurants and Cafés

The hospitality industry is known for its bustling atmosphere. Servers and staff are constantly moving in and out of the kitchen, carrying trays and plates. With such hectic activity, doors can easily be pushed and pulled with force, resulting in wear and tear. Push plates offer a barrier between the door and the day-to-day chaos, ensuring that your entryways remain in pristine condition. Plus, these plates are available in a variety of stylish finishes, allowing you to maintain a cohesive aesthetic throughout your establishment.

Office Buildings

In an office environment, doors are subject to frequent use as employees and visitors move between rooms and departments. Constantly gripping and pulling handles can leave doors looking worn out over time. By installing push plates, you give doors an extra layer of protection against scuffs and scratches, maintaining a professional and polished appearance. Additionally, push plates can be a great opportunity to showcase your company's logo or branding, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to your office space.

Educational Institutions

Schools, colleges, and universities are hubs of activity. This high volume of traffic can put doors at risk of damage. Push plates provide an effective solution by creating a barrier between doors and potential sources of wear and tear. From classroom doors to main entrances, push plates offer a cost-effective way to keep your educational institution looking neat and well-maintained.

Healthcare Facilities

Healthcare facilities, like hospitals and clinics, are known for their heavy foot traffic and busy environments. Doctors, nurses, patients, and visitors are constantly moving through various doorways, making them susceptible to damage. Push plates act as a shield, protecting doors from scratches and marks caused by medical equipment, stretchers, and other heavy objects. Furthermore, push plates are easy to clean and sanitize, making them ideal for maintaining a hygienic environment.

In conclusion, push plates are a simple yet effective solution for businesses in various industries. From retail stores to healthcare facilities, they provide much-needed protection to doors that experience heavy usage. By installing push plates, you can save time, money, and effort by avoiding door repairs and replacements. Contact us to get started with your own custom-size push plates or kick plates or call us at 800-517-1056 and speak with our knowledgeable staff. Your doors will thank you! 

What’s a Kickplate?

If you’ve been in an industrial building, you’ve likely seen a kickplate but didn’t know what it was called. A kickplate is a metal or plastic plate that is attached to the bottom of a door, typically around 8 to 16 inches in height. Its primary purpose is to protect the door from damage caused by foot traffic, particularly from the impact of shoes or boots. (Hence the name…) Kickplates are especially important in areas with heavy foot traffic, such as hospitals, schools, and public buildings.

Perks of Kickplates

In addition to protecting doors from damage, kickplates also offer several other benefits in commercial and industrial settings. For one, they help maintain a clean and professional appearance, which is particularly important for businesses that rely on customer impressions. A scratched, dented, or dirty door can give off the impression of a poorly maintained facility, leading to a loss of customers and decreased revenue.

For more industrial settings, kickplates can provide an element of safety. They can play a role in preventing slips and falls, particularly in areas with potentially wet or slippery surfaces by knocking off excess moisture at the door. A well-placed kickplate can help prevent footwear from slipping on a wet floor, reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries.

In industrial settings, kickplates are particularly important for protecting doors from damage caused by heavy equipment or machinery. Forklifts, hand trucks, and other machinery can cause significant damage to doors and door frames, leading to costly repairs or replacements. By installing kickplates, businesses can protect their doors and save money on maintenance costs.

Another perk of kickplates is their durability. Made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, or PVC, kickplates are designed to withstand heavy use and abuse. They’re resistant to scratches, dents, and other forms of damage, making them an excellent investment for businesses looking to protect their doors and maintain their appearance over the long term. By working with Kickplate Store, we can give you an idea of which materials are best suited for your company’s needs.

If you own or manage a commercial or industrial facility, consider installing kickplates on your doors to ensure their longevity and maintain a safe and welcoming environment for your employees and customers. Contact us for custom-size kick plates for your restaurant or call us at 800-517-1056 and speak with our knowledgeable staff. We can fabricate any size kick plate; drilled kick plates, pre-taped kick plates and countersunk drilled kick plates. We can also provide an approval drawing showing the dimensions on custom fabrications!

Consider the Door Material

The first step in choosing the right kickplate for your door is to consider the material of the door. Different door materials require different types of kickplates. For example, if you have a wooden door, a brass or copper kickplate would be an excellent choice. However, if you have a steel or aluminum door, a stainless steel kickplate would be a better option. Don’t know where to get started with your particular material? Reach out to us and one of our specialists can help!

Measure the Door

Before you choose a kickplate for your door, you need to measure the height and width of the door. (This seems like a “duh!” tip, but think about all those times where you’ve bought a storage bin for a closet only to have it not properly fit on a shelf… ) Having the door specs ready will help you determine the size of the kickplate you need. A kickplate that is too small won’t provide adequate protection. Kickplates that are too large won’t properly stay on or won’t look good.

Choose the Right Finish

Kickplates are available in a variety of finishes, including polished brass, satin nickel, antique brass, and stainless steel. The finish you choose should complement the door hardware and the overall décor of your home. For example, if you have brass door hardware, a polished brass kickplate would be a great choice. Unified finishes can elevate your space.

Consider the Door Style

The style of the door is another important factor to consider when choosing a kickplate. If you have a traditional or classic style door, a kickplate with a simple design and a polished finish would be an excellent choice. However, if you have a modern or contemporary style door, a kickplate with a brushed finish might be a better option.

“Location, Location, Location”

Think about how often your door will swing open or who uses it the most. The location of the door is also an important factor to consider when choosing a kickplate. If the door is located in a high traffic area, a thicker kickplate would provide better protection. If the door is located in an area that is exposed to the elements, a kickplate with a weather-resistant finish would be a good choice.

By considering the door material, measuring the door, choosing the right finish, considering the door style, and thinking about the location of the door, you can find the perfect kickplate that will not only protect your door but also enhance the overall appearance of your entrance. Contact us for custom-size kick plates for your restaurant or call us at 800-517-1056 and speak with our knowledgeable staff. We can fabricate any size kick plate; drilled kick plates, pre-taped kick plates and countersunk drilled kick plates. We can also provide an approval drawing showing the dimensions on custom fabrications!

What You’ll Need:

• Kickplate
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Drill
• Screws
• Screwdriver
• Level

Step 1: Measure the door

Using a measuring tape, measure the height and width of the door where you want to install the kickplate. This determines the size of kickplate you’ll need to buy.

Step 2: Choose the kickplate

Choose a kickplate that fits the size of the door and matches the decor of the space. Kickplates come in a variety of materials, such as stainless steel, brass, or bronze. Make sure the kickplate is at least 6 inches tall to provide adequate damage protection.

Step 3: Mark the door

Using a pencil, mark the placement of the kickplate on the door. Place the kickplate at the bottom of the door, with the top of the kickplate about 6 inches from the floor. Use a level to ensure the kickplate is straight.

Step 4: Drill pilot holes

Using a drill, drill pilot holes where you marked the placement of the kickplate. Make sure the drill bit is slightly smaller than the screws you will use to attach the kickplate.

Step 5: Attach the kickplate

Align the holes on the kickplate with the pilot holes you drilled on the door. Insert the screws into the holes and use a screwdriver to tighten them, making sure the kickplate is securely attached to the door.

Step 6: Clean up the area

Use a soft cloth to clean any debris or dust that may have accumulated during the installation process.

Congratulations! You have successfully installed a kickplate on your door. By following these simple steps, you have protected your door from scratches and dents caused by shoes or other objects, while adding a practical and stylish touch to your space. Contact us for custom-size kick plates for your restaurant or call us at 800-517-1056 and speak with our knowledgeable staff. We can fabricate any size kick plate; drilled kick plates, pre-taped kick plates and, countersunk drilled kick plates. We can also provide an approval drawing showing the dimensions on custom fabrications.

Keep your kick plates clean

Regularly cleaning your kick plates will help to prevent dirt and grime from building up and damaging the surface. You can use mild detergent and water to wipe down the plates, or you can use a specialized cleaner designed specifically for metal surfaces. Be sure to dry the plates thoroughly after cleaning to prevent water spots and rust.

Protect them from scratches

Kick plates are prone to scratches; they are made to take scuffing, after all. However, kick plates made out of softer metal like aluminum can be especially prone to bigger scratches. To prevent scratches, try to avoid dragging heavy objects across the plates. You can also consider using a protective film or coating on the surface.

Repair any damage promptly

If you notice any dents or scratches on your kick plates, it's important to repair them as soon as possible. Dents and scratches can weaken the metal and lead to further damage if left unrepaired. You can use a hammer and a block of wood to gently push out any dents, and you can use a metal polish or compound to remove scratches.

Check for signs of rust

Rust is one of the biggest threats to kick plates, especially if they are made of a more vulnerable metal like steel. Rust compromises the structure and durability of the metal kick plates. To prevent rust from forming, keep your kick plates clean and dry. If you do notice any rust forming, you can use a rust remover or sand the area down and repaint it with rust-inhibiting paint.

Replace damaged plates

If your kick plates are severely damaged or beyond repair, it may be time to replace them. You don’t have to struggle with finding new kick plates on your own. Contact us for custom-size kick plates or call us at 800-517-1056 and speak with our knowledgeable staff. Talk to us about your old plates’ damage, and we can figure out a longer-lasting solution. At the Kick Plate Store, we can fabricate any size kick plate; drilled kick plates, pre-taped kick plates, and countersunk drilled kick plates. We can also provide an approval drawing showing the dimensions of custom fabrications.

What is a kick plate?

Kick plates are metal or plastic plates that are fitted to a door to add protection. Kick plates prevent damage over time to your door. They also allow you or your customers to open the door using your feet (the “kick” in “kick plate”) without scuffing the actual door itself.

Kick plates are exceptionally useful for places where people come through doors with their hands full. Restaurants, childcare centers, and even homes are using kick plates as a way to make their lives easier. Pet owners and pet daycares also use kick plates to reduce damage from animals scratching at the doors.

Homeowners are one of the most prominent groups finding benefits by adding kick plates. Adding a kick plate to a front door means residents won't have to worry about damage caused as they bring in groceries, strollers, or moving boxes. It can be a real pain to open the door with your hands full, and a kick plate gives you a more efficient alternative while ensuring that your door still looks new.

Which is the best kick plate for me?

At the Kick Plate Store, we have a kick plate for any location’s needs. When choosing which kick plate is the best choice for you, think about which part of the door you need to protect.

The range of plates includes; mop plates, kick plates, stretcher plates, armor plates, and push plates. Each different type of plate fits onto your door differently and protects a different area.

If you are considering purchasing a kick plate to protect your door, it is essential to think about which section of the door you are looking to install. This is because, depending on your requirements, the type of plate you need will vary. It is also worth considering the level of protection and style you are looking for, as kick plates are available in a range of materials.

Contact us for custom-size kick plates or call us at 800-517-1056 and speak with our knowledgeable staff. We can fabricate any size kick plate; drilled kick plates, pre-taped kick plates and, countersunk drilled kick plates. We can also provide an approval drawing showing the dimensions on custom fabrications.