Best Heavy Weight Hinges: Gap and Swing Considerations

In commercial or industrial settings, clients usually demand durable and functional heavy weight hinges to maintain longevity and seamless operation. For heavy gates measuring 3′ x 6′ and weighing around 300 lbs, the type of hinge, the number of hinges, and the gap between gate & ground are important factors to consider.

Heavy Weight Door Challenge

In recent Waterson scenarios, A significant challenge happened when the client demand our outdoor heavy duty hinges to open beyond 90° while remaining stable. It is critical to accurately determine the necessary gap for hinge installation and the appropriate swing radius, particularly for gates that are 2″ thick and weigh around 300 lbs. Inadequate spacing or suboptimal hinges can result in sagging or complete gate failure.

Setting Gap and Hinge for Gate Stability

For the best optimal performance, the gap between gate and ground should typically be 25-50mm (1-2”) to clear any ground unevenness. However, since there are various gate sizes, the maximum distance gap can be calculated by taking the distance between screws on the hinges (2.758″) minus the post thickness.

For the 4’x8’ specification and under 330 lbs, we recommend you to apply four hinges in order to get the best performance. However, for gates exceeding this weight, a fifth hinge can increase the weight capacity to 440 lbs, ensuring stability and durability.

Heavy Duty Hinge Weight Capacity

Waterson offers stainless steel heavy duty hinges for heavy weight outdoor use. These heavy duty hinges can support doors up to 440 lbs with a fifth non-functioning hinge. The hinges allow gates to open beyond 90°, meeting diverse design needs and ensuring easy access. Waterson 90 degree hinges therefore can remain in place. While doors can open further, they will be self-closing once past the perpendicular.

Looking ahead for Waterson Heavy Duty Gate Hinges‘ type and style? Click now!

Q: Can Waterson heavy weight hinges be adjusted easily if needed?

Unlike most spring hinges, Waterson’s VISUAL numerical tension panel and patented speed control unit make the adjustment process much more assured and precise. Installers can effortlessly use the installation kit we provide to achieve the ideal tension based on different environments or user needs.

You can watch the video below or read more details of Waterson Hinges Adjustment Instructions here.

Best Hinges for Heavy Doors

Waterson 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.

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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.