The 2010 ADA Standards provide clearance requirements for recessed door design and ADA door swing clearance (see Figure 404.2.4.3 below). ADA requires that the push side of a door maneuvering clearances for forward approach shall be provided when any obstruction within 12 inches (455 mm). Also the latch side of a doorway projects should be more than 8 inches (205 mm) beyond the face of the door, and be perpendicular to the face of the door or gate. However, if there is only a closer or a latch, the clearance does not need to extend past the latch edge. In such cases, the door may comply with the code if it doesn’t have a closer.
Door Opening Considerations
A high-end student living in the midtown area, Kinetic, offers beautiful 1 – 5 bedroom apartments. Each unit utilizes 3-0 x 7-0 single doors, 45-minute rated, going from the parking deck to the main elevator lobbies. The position of the frames at these openings in large shear walls and the self-closing request were causing an issue with ADA recessed door clearance.
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Ideal Push Side Solution
An ADA consultant from Accessibility Services, a program of the United Spinal Association, recommended Waterson door swing clearance hinges to recess push-side entry doors. These recessed door clearance hinges are ideal because they don’t require as much clearance as traditional door closers. ADA standards require a minimum 12-inch clearance for recessed doors over 8 inches with traditional closers. However, Waterson hinges are not classified as a door closer because of the different deisgn, so they are excluded from this rule.
Project Details
- Kinetic
- Size: 9 doors, 3-0 x 7-0 single doors, 45-minute rated
- Waterson Solution: K51M-450-A3-US19
- Distributor: The Cook & Boardman Group | GA, USA
- Awarded: August 2023
Want to know more about ADA? Here is a post related to ADA bathroom stall door requirements
Waterson ADA Recessed Door Clearance Hinges
Waterson Closer 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 Quote
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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