Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), any business open to the public must provide equal access for individuals with disabilities. This isn’t just about having a ramp or a button-activated door—it means every aspect of mobility, from entryways to vertical access, must meets compliance standards. That’s why ADA compliant platform lifts have become a common solution to bridge level differences for wheelchair users and the elderly.
Credit on AmeriGlide
But here’s what many people overlook: even the smallest components like door hinges can make or break ADA compliance. If your lift gate doesn’t self-close properly or lacks the right resistance level, it could violate accessibility regulations. This is where commercial ADA door hinges step in—not just as hardware, but as compliance tools.
But First, What Is an ADA Compliant Platform Lift
An ADA compliant platform lift, aka commercial vertical platform lift, is an elevator-type system that helps wheelchair users move between floors in low-rise buildings. Often found in shopping centers, schools, and public facilities, these lifts ensure accessibility when ramps or standard elevators aren’t feasible.
Why ADA Hinges Matter in Lift Gate Design
Most people focus on the motor or platform design, but the hinges used on the lift gate are equally important. Commercial vertical platform lift hinges must support repetitive use while maintaining smooth, self-closing action to prevent injury and maintain ADA compliance.
Proper hinges like commercial ADA door hinges ensure that the gate or door closes automatically and securely—especially critical in emergency situations or high-traffic areas.
What Key Features Should ADA Hinges Provide to this Special Door Type?
Alongside the platform lift, aluminum-framed glass doors are often installed to enhance openness and modern aesthetics. To ensure safe and convenient use—especially in areas without ramps—these doors should be fitted with ADA-compliant hinges that meet the following key requirements:
| Feature | Why It Matters for Commercial Vertical Platform Lifts |
|---|---|
| Self-Closing Mechanism | Ensures the door closes automatically after use to maintain safety and fire code compliance |
| Low Opening Force (<5 lbs) | Allows easy door operation for wheelchair users or individuals with limited mobility |
| Slow Closing Speed (≥5 sec) | Prevents door slamming and ensures safe, controlled closure |
| Durability | Withstands frequent use without sagging or loosening |
| ADA-Compliant | Meets all required measurements and force standards |
| Strong Material | Extends hinge life and maintains performance in indoor/outdoor conditions |
| Aesthetic | Matches modern designs like glass or aluminum frames |
Choosing the right door hinges on ADA compliant platform lift isn’t always straightforward. However, what if there was a self-closing hinge that went beyond just meeting the ADA basics? That’s where Waterson self-closing ADA door hinges come in—offering precision, durability, and full ADA compliance beyond the basics.
Best ADA Door Hinges Come to Action
“Some platform lifts pass inspection—until the door fails to close properly or requires too much force. That’s when the right ADA hinge makes all the difference.”
Waterson ADA door hinges are built to support accessibility, safety, and performance in platform lift applications. Especially for aluminum-framed glass doors, these hinges meet strict ADA standards while offering smooth operation and long-term reliability. Here’s what sets them apart:
- Self Closing Mechanism: Ensures the door shuts fully and automatically
- 304 & 316 Stainless Steel: Long-lasting, rust-resistant performance
- ADA Compliant: <5 lb opening force, ≥5 sec close time, no overhead clearance required.
- Heavy Duty: Withstands repeated use without losing alignment or performance—perfect for commercial traffic.
- Adjustable Speed Control: Built-in dial to fine-tune speed (no oil or external closer)
- Modern Aesthetic: Minimal and clean—perfect for aluminum and glass doors
Other ADA Door Hinges Applications
- ADA Toilet Stall
- ADA Bathroom Stall Door
- Glass Toilet Partition
- ADA Fitting Room
- Heavy Duty Metal Gate
- Residential Elevator Doors
Yes. As long as the hinge meets ADA force and timing requirements and fits the door frame, it can be applied to different commercial lift door scenarios.
Waterson Heavy Duty Hinges for ADA Compliant Platform Lifts
Waterson self closing fire 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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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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