Choosing the right door hinge can make all the difference in functionality, safety, and style. Whether you need durability for high-traffic areas, fire-rated options for compliance, or sleek designs for entry doors, understanding hinge types is essential. But with so many types of door hinges available, how can I navigate to the most suitable hinge for my application?

What to Ask Before Selecting the Right Door Hinges

Before buying any door hinge, ask yourself these questions:

  • How many hinges will your door need based on its weight and size?
  • Is this a high-traffic area or a residential place?
  • Will the door face moisture or chemicals? Or should corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel be used?
  • What hinge features (fire-rated, soft-closing, hold open, ADA compliance) align best with your project’s needs?
  • What is the design and finish you are looking for?
  • What’s the budget for hinges? Should I invest more in durable materials upfront to save on costs later, or just an ordinary material?

These simple questions might seem basic, but they will guide you step-by-step to the right hinge choice. Once you have got your answers, scroll down and discover your perfect solution.

Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Door Hinges

  • Ideal for Commercial Use: Perfect for managing closing demands in commercial settings.
  • Heavy Duty: Waterson hinges efficiently support significant loads – three hinges can bear over 260 lbs, and four hinges up to 440 lbs.
  • Fire-rated: Meet NFPA 80 and are UL 3-hour fire-rated.
  • Adjustment Capabilities: Includes 3 setting adjustments to easily control the speed. Learn more about hydraulic door closer speed adjustment here.
  • ADA Compliant: Ensures compliance with ADA codes for less than 5 lbs opening force, 5 secs closing speed, and 32” minimum clearance.

Access our full library of technical specs and drawings tailored for self closing door hinges now!

Self Closing Swing Clear Hinges

  • Unique Leaf Design: Offers maximized door openings with an innovative leaf structure. Honored to be Red Dot Winner – Product Design in 2023
  • Space Efficiency: Ideal for single swing doors, creating additional space.
  • Door Accessibility: Meets ADA and FHA codes, enhancing self-closing accessibility.
  • Fire Safety Door Standards: Comes with a 3-hour fire rating and UL Grade 1 certification.
  • Versatile Application: Suitable for hospitals, hotels, and nursing homes for improved accessibility.

Explore our full collection of technical specs and drawings for swing clear hinges here.

Glass Door Hinges

  • Modern Aesthetic: Offers a sleek, clean appearance enhancing door aesthetics.
  • Frame Hardware Elimination: Removes the need for traditional metal frame hardware.
  • Rust Proof Glass Door Hinges: Designed to prevent potential rust issues.
  • Easy Installation: Can be installed and maintained in just 30 minutes.
  • Cost-Effective: Eliminates the need for expensive ground spring concrete installations.

View detailed specs and drawings for glass door hinges here.

Different Types or Door Hinges Applications

We understand that features can seem theoretical, and you may want to see practical applications for reference. Please check the table below to find which applications align best with the door hinge types we’ve mentioned.

Waterson Different Types of Door Hinges Advancement

Waterson Hinges combine an overhead closer and hinge into one attractive component with optional hold-open and door stop features. Waterson hinges are ideal for commercial openings, gates, and glass doors. These closer hinges are easily installed and adjusted to comply with ADA & ICC A117.1 requirements for opening force and to assure quiet, secure closing. Made with stainless steel, Waterson closer hinges meet NFPA 80 and are UL 3-hour fire-rated, as well as being suitable for both interior and all-weather exterior openings. See all our features.

Request For Information

Please note that Waterson Closer Hinges start from a size of 4″x4″. If you’re in need of smaller self-closing hinges, we’d recommend checking out some other resources! Also, we only provide single acting closer hinges. Thank you.

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