Single section car doors/gates are used when there is ample overhead height in the hoistway. Single section car doors/gates consist of a single counterweighted panel and can be either manually or power operated.

Required overhead height, measured from the top landing sill to the nearest overhead obstruction, for a standard 1830mm (6 ft.) high car door/gate is equal to the landing door opening height plus 1855 mm (6 ft 1 in.). Single section car doors/gates require a 90mm (3.5 in) car setback.

When there is insufficient overhead height, use a two-section car door/gate.