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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 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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