What is the minimum bottom clearance required for swinging glass doors?

The minimum bottom clearance required for swinging glass doors is typically established to ensure proper operation and to accommodate any potential floor irregularities. A clearance of 3/16 inch is often specified because it allows for adequate movement of the door without dragging against the flooring surface.

This clearance is particularly important in environments where floors may settle or change slightly over time due to factors like humidity or load changes, preventing the door from sticking or causing wear and tear on both the door and the floor. Additionally, this clearance helps to allow for any carpet or matting that may be present at the entrance, ensuring that the door can swing freely without obstruction.

When evaluating the other options, a clearance of 1/8 inch is often too minimal to accommodate variations in flooring, possibly leading to operational issues. On the other hand, a clearance of 1/4 inch or 1/2 inch may be excessive for most applications, unless specific conditions necessitate a higher allowance due to unique floor designs or heavy traffic areas. Therefore, 3/16 inch strikes a balance between functionality and practicality for swinging glass doors.