FAQ

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Are estimates free?
Yes! Please send photos to our email salestech@bulkheaddoorsinc.com so we can provide you an estimate.  If the bulkhead looks like it needs a closer look, we will set up a time to come out.

Can I get my new bulkhead painted?
Bulkheads come in a red oxide primer finish. We do not offer finished paint. We do, however, have powder coating available.

If you choose to paint your bulkhead yourself, follow these steps:

Painting Instructions

IMPORTANT: Bulkheads installed or purchased with a primer finish must be painted within sixty (60) days of installation. Bulkhead Doors, Inc. recommends the use a Rust Preventive Alkyd Enamel. For best results, carefully follow the directions on the paint label, sand any  areas showing signs of oxidation, and clean with paint-thinner to remove any dirt or oil. Use a foam roller to apply one thin coat of paint followed by a second coat. A good quality brush can get into the corners that the roller cannot get into. The exterior as well as the interior must be painted for longevity of the bulkhead.

Caulking and sealing
We use a polyurethane caulk to seal all our bulkheads to the foundation.

What are foundation plates?
Foundation plates are long steel plates with a 90 degree bend.  They are used when concrete is in subpar condition or uneven.  Sometimes once the bulkhead is removed the installer will recommend foundation plates for proper installation of the bulkhead.
 

Are bulkheads air tight?
No. Bulkhead are designed to allow air flow in and out of the bulkhead area.  This allows condensation to be evaporated away, so it doesn't rust the inside of your bulkhead.

Trapped moist air can also lead to mold and mildew, so air flow is ideal.

I see day light at the bottom of my doors, why?

It is normal to see daylight around the perimeter of the doors. The overlapping flanges are designed with a small gap to allow air flow to help reduce condensation on the underside of the doors. This gap will not affect the weather resistance of the door. If your bulkhead is painted a light color, the daylight through the gap may appear more exaggerated than it is.

Why Is There Condensation On The Inside Of My Bulkhead?

We usually get this question in the Fall when the days are warm and the nights are cool.  During the day the sun heats up the bulkhead and at night when the air cools condensation forms on the under side of the bulkhead,due to the temperature difference. This issue can be concerning, but it is a temporary, seasonal issue.  To help alleviate this you can leave the bulkhead doors open to allow the air to equalize.  We also suggest that you hang moisture absorbing bags or desiccant bags in the bulkhead entry way to absorb excess moisture in the few weeks of Mid-Fall when this scientific phenomenon occurs.

How long will my install take?
A standard installation takes one day.  

What is a bulkhead made out of?

Your door is built from heavy gauge steel and welded/bolted for longevity and strength.

Are bulkhead insulated?

No. Bulkheads do not have gaskets or insulation kits because they are designed to allow air to flow in and out.  

Although the doors are designed to be weather-resistant, an insulated vertical door at the bottom of your bulkhead stairs is recommended for maximum energy efficiency.

How do I maintain my bulkhead?

You’ll notice when the doors are open there is a channel at the top of the opening, keep this channel clear of debris by sweeping it out periodically.  Debris build up in this channel can cause water to overflow the header and eventually will corrode the steel.

Clean your bulkhead periodically and touch up any paint areas that need it.

Check your gutters above the bulkhead. Concentrated water from an inadequate or missing gutter can be too much for the bulkhead to shed and may result in leaks through the overlapping doors.