Recently, Juan Solarzano, a specialist in metal architectural elements based in San Francisco, has been building metal gates that require self-closing mechanisms. He is often commissioned to create custom entryways for upscale properties in the San Francisco area, both commercial and residential. After conducting an extensive search, he found a fully adjustable heavy duty gate hinges made by Waterson that met his needs.
Challenges Faced in Bernal Heights
In Bernal Heights, a sought-after neighborhood in San Francisco, Solarzano created a steel-framed gate covered with wood slats. Due to strong winds and the absence of a lintel, a unique self-closing mechanism was required. Another goal was to maintain the gate’s aesthetic appeal, as some people find conventional gate hinges unattractive. Additionally, self-closing gates are necessary to comply with NFPA 80 fire door requirements, parallel to the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Residential Code (IRC) applications.
A Go-to Option
After careful consideration, the client selected Waterson self-closing gate hinges as their preferred solution. The hinges complies with Solarzano’s standards for wind loads, gate weight and size, and indoor/outdoor use. These included:
- Load Bearing Capacity: Heavier than regular hinges, which can bear over 260 lbs with three hinges and over 400 lbs with four.
- Stainless Steel: Made from durable stainless steel through an outstanding investment casting process.
- Adjustable Speed Control: Provides control from 90º and 120º door stop, with 3 speed setting controls.
- Self Closing: Swing speed slows from 90° to 20°, latch speed slows from 20° to 0°
- Fire Rated: Highly effective, ideal 180 mins fire rated for commercial and residential complexes.
- Standards Compliance: Adhering to ANSI/BHMA A156.17 standards, these hinges meet strict quality and safety benchmarks.
- Aesthetic: Available with a elegent black gate hinges, offering an elegent and luxury design.
- Additional Feature: Compatible with gate or fence post from 1”, 1 ½” , 2”, 3” or 4”
Waterson Adjustable Heavy Duty Gate Hinges
Waterson heavy duty gate hinges combine an overhead hinge into one attractive component with optional hold-open and door-stop features. These hinges are ideal for commercial openings, gates, and glass doors. The 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 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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