A good business entry door area does four jobs: it keeps the building secure, stands up to the weather, tells customers they are in the right place, and makes them feel welcome. Your entryway is the first thing people see when they arrive, so small improvements here can change how your whole business is perceived.
Here are practical ways to improve the entrance to a small business in Connecticut.
Start With the Business Entry Door Itself
Make sure your doors are in good condition. They need to be secure and able to withstand the weather, and Connecticut has its share of winter squalls and storms each year.
Look at how the door operates. It should open and close smoothly, latch firmly and seal out drafts. A door that sticks, rattles or shows rust and dents sends the wrong message before a customer has even stepped inside. If yours is worn or no longer secure, consider replacing it with a newer, more durable entry door.
If you receive deliveries at different times of day, a lock box can help you manage access without leaving the door unsecured.
Add a Commercial Awning
An awning over your doors and windows adds protection from the elements, energy efficiency and style. It shades the glass on sunny days and gives customers a dry place to stand while they open an umbrella or wait for a ride.
Aladdin offers a wide range of commercial awnings, with or without graphics, to match your brand. We also install awnings for patios and balconies, which can help restaurants and cafes make better use of outdoor seating.
Update Your Signage
Your signage should reflect your brand identity and make it clear where visitors can find what they need. An awning with your name and logo can double as a sign that is visible from the street. Our post on how commercial awnings can elevate your business covers this in more detail.
If you have multiple entrances or more than one level, add directional signs so visitors can find their way around the building easily.
Dress Up the Entryway
Consider how inviting your entrance looks from the outside. Planters with greenery or flowers on either side of the door make the space feel cared for.
Good lighting helps too. A light fixture at the door makes the entrance easier to find and helps customers feel comfortable coming in after dark.
Make the Entrance Safe and Easy to Use
If customers climb steps or a ramp to reach your door, they need something solid to hold. Sturdy aluminum or wrought iron railings make the entrance safer for everyone and should meet the code requirements for a commercial property.
Keep the walkway clear, the mat flat and the threshold in good repair so nobody trips on the way in.
Plan Your Entrance Upgrade
Aladdin has worked with Connecticut homes and businesses since 1949. If your storefront needs an awning, railings or a better door, tell us about your building or call (203) 776-9996, and we will go over the options with you.