Question by Jason C: How to install an opener on a heavy *in-floor* door leading to the (wine) cellar in a historic home?
My girlfriend’s early 1800s house has beautiful hardwood floors. In one section, the floor opens, revealing stairs that lead to the small cellar area. Obviously, all of the hinges/hardware are hidden; it just looks like a hardwood floor, except for a small brass ring that you use to lift the door. The problem is that this door (with the hardwood on top) is large and heavy; and lifting 70 lbs by a brass ring with two fingers is not only painful, it’s hard on the back too. I have photos and can get exact dimensions; but I would estimate 4 feet by 8 feet and 70lbs. I have searched the Internet for spring, pneumatic, hydraulic and electric devices. Some do exist, but certainly nothing marketed specifically for a residential hardwood floor door, where everything must fit underneath. I don’t think there are enough of these doors around anymore to make it worthwhile to market an opener for them. Thoughts? Thank you. Jason
Best answer:
Answer by navi
Gas struts are the answer. They are available from many outlets. Just enter Gas Struts in search engine. They come in many strengths and suppliers given the weight and position where you want to put struts will work it out for you. I would have looked it up for you but don’t know what country you are in
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