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Solving ADA Recessed Door Clearance Challenges

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 SolutionK51M-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 spring loaded door hinges combine the function of an overhead closer and a hinge into a single, sleek component—complete with optional hold-open and door-stop features. Designed for commercial openings, gates, and glass doors, these hinges are easy to install and adjust to meet ADA and ICC A117.1 standards for opening force, while ensuring quiet and secure closure. Crafted from durable stainless steel, they are NFPA 80 compliant, UL 3-hour fire-rated, and built to perform reliably in both interior and all-weather exterior environments. See all our features.

In addition to these performance advantages, Waterson offers flexible customization services. As a direct manufacturer, we can tailor hinge sizes, finishes, and especially hinge leaf designs to meet the specific structural needs of your doors. This makes our hinges an ideal solution for door manufacturers seeking custom options that integrate seamlessly with their existing frames.

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