Exploring the Evolution of Automatic Doors on National Automatic Door Day
Hatfield, United States – March 19, 2026 / Door Services Corporation /
Door Services Corporation, a recognized leader in the automatic door service and installation sector throughout the U.S. and Canada, proudly joins the industry in observing National Automatic Door Day. Now in its fifth year, this March 19th event highlights the essential role that automatic doors play in enhancing accessibility, hygiene, energy efficiency, and safety in various commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, and public spaces.
This year, Door Services is commemorating the occasion by shedding light on the historical journey of this technology – tracing its evolution from ancient steam-powered temple doors to the groundbreaking invention that transformed commercial architecture in the 1960s.
From Ancient Engineers to a Texas Windstorm
The idea of hands-free entry dates back further than many might expect. In the 1st century AD, the engineer Heron of Alexandria devised a steam-powered mechanism that could automatically open large temple doors. Many centuries later, Emperor Yang of Sui is said to have implemented a foot-sensor door in his royal library – an early touchless solution from the 7th century.
The modern era began in 1931 when engineers Raymond and Roby created the first contemporary automatic door for a restaurant in Connecticut. However, it was in Corpus Christi, Texas, where a significant breakthrough occurred. In 1954, Dee Horton and Lew Hewitt were working on automatic door opener technology when a fierce windstorm highlighted a major flaw: swing doors were unsuitable for such conditions. Their solution was the automatic sliding door, which was first installed at a Sears location in Corpus Christi in 1960.
Horton Automatics emerged as the pioneering automatic door manufacturer, establishing industry standards. Today, Door Services Corporation is honored to be part of the Horton Automatics family, continuing that legacy of excellence and innovation with every installation and service call.
Why Automatic Doors Matter More Than Ever
Today’s automatic door systems are more advanced, safer, and increasingly vital. For facility managers and building professionals, selecting the appropriate automatic door solution significantly influences operational performance across four critical areas:
- Accessibility – Automatic doors eliminate barriers for individuals of all abilities, promoting universal design and compliance with the ADA.
- Hygiene – Touchless entry through automatic door openers and motion sensors minimizes shared contact points – a key concern in healthcare facilities and busy environments.
- Energy Efficiency – Low-energy operators reduce air leakage and lower heating and cooling expenses, contributing to a building’s sustainability objectives.
- Security – Modern automatic door systems can be integrated with access control, security measures, exit devices, and commercial door hardware to maintain safe, controlled environments.
Throughout the U.S., automatic doors perform billions of open-and-close cycles annually – and AAADM certified technicians, such as those at Door Services Corporation, ensure these systems operate safely and reliably.
A Quote from Door Services Corporation
“National Automatic Door Day is one of our favorite times of the year in the industry – it provides an opportunity to celebrate something that most people utilize without a second thought, while also acknowledging the craftsmanship and expertise that make it all possible. Being part of the Horton Automatics family connects us to this remarkable history. Dee Horton and Lew Hewitt revolutionized the way the world enters buildings, and we take pride in continuing that legacy every day.”
– Krista Rivers, Marketing Manager, Door Services Corporation
About National Automatic Door Day
National Automatic Door Day is celebrated each year on March 19th. Established in 2021, this day honors the contributions automatic doors make to public accessibility, health, and overall building performance.
About Door Services Corporation
Door Services Corporation is your go-to partner for automatic door service and installation, built on over 50 years of quality products and long-lasting customer relationships. A proud member of the Horton Automatics family and the American Association of Automatic Door Manufacturers (AAADM), Door Services Corporation’s AAADM certified technicians service and repair all makes and models of automatic door systems throughout the U.S. and Canada. Emergency service is available 24/7 across all branch locations.
To learn more, visit www.doorservicescorporation.com.
Contact Information:
Door Services Corporation
777 Schwab Rd, #A
Hatfield, PA 19440
United States
Marketing Team
800-492-2392
https://doorservicescorporation.com
