Self-closing functionality is extremely important and useful in a variety of environments from commercial entry doors to fire-rated to ADA-compliant and beyond. For many years, traditional door closers have dominated the door hardware market; however, in recent years, other self-closing door hardware has burst onto the scene.
How to Replace a Door Closer
Because traditional door closers have been on the market for so long, most contractors are familiar with installing them. That said, the installation process tends to be time-consuming, complicated, and rife with possible points of error. A typical door closer installation requires several steps involved:
Step 1: Mark and drill holes for the closer arm and body.
Step 2: Attach the closer to the door frame or door.
Step 3: Adjust the closing speed and latch speed.
Step 4: Test for smooth operation and compliance with ADA or building codes.
The complexity of installing door closers stems from the numerous parts involved, often accompanied by multiple trips up and down a ladder. If you are interested in seeing the process, here is a good door closer installation video reference.
Commercial Door Closer Alternative
Unlike tedious traditional door closer installations, self-closing door hinges can be installed very easily. For starters, self-closing door hinges are designed with standard ANSI A156.1 plates and patterns, so there is no need to prep, measure, or drill on site. Rather, the process and technique involved in installing self-closing door hinges are similar to regular door closers. Installation and adjustment are much easier and far less time-consuming than that of door closers.
Go further with the step-by-step of self-closing door hinge installation here.
Installation Comparison
In terms of dollars and cents, installing self-closing hinges is much cheaper than installing door closers. For the sake of comparison, let’s say that self-closing hinges and door closers are approximately the same price. The cost saving difference, however, relates to reduced installation time. Where a traditional door closer requires more than an hour to install, self-closing hinges only need 30 minutes to install and adjust.
Assuming a $38/hr wage, a typical 100 door installation project would save over $1900, which multiplied over a larger project could yield a significant savings. Not to mention that door closer replacement costs are much more expensive than those of self-closing hinges due to complexity and time.
| Category | Traditional Door Closer | Self-Closing Hinges | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Installation Time (per door) | 1 hour | 30 minutes | 30 minutes saved |
| Hourly Wage | $38/hour | $38/hour | – |
| Cost per Dollar (Labor) | $38 | $19 | $19 saved per door |
| Total Installation Time | 100 hours | 50 hours | 50 hours saved |
| Total Labor Cost (100 doors) | $3800 | $1900 | $1900 |
| Replacement Cost (per unit) | Higher due complexity | Lower due simplicity | – |
Door closer = one hour ; Self closing door replacement + adjustment = 30 minutes
Waterson Brand Benefits
Besides the remarkable installation, Waterson heavy-duty stainless steel self-closing door hinges provide excellently foresighted solutions to almost shortages by covering these outstanding features:
- Stainless Steel: Made with 304 and 316 stainless steel to withstand the elements and heavy use.
- Load Bearing Capacity: Waterson hinges efficiently support significant loads – three hinges can bear over 260 lbs, and four hinges up to 440 lbs.
- Corrosion Resistance: Waterson hinges excel in harsh environments, surpassing ASTM B117 and A156.7 standards in salt spray tests for over 200 hours.
- Fire Door Compliance: Adhering to ANSI/BHMA A156.17 standards, these hinges meet strict quality and safety benchmarks.
- Anti Slamming & Soft Closing: Prevent doors from slamming shut and pose risks such as loose hinges or damage screws holding.
- Adjustability: Features 3 adjustable setting speeds and buffering control over door closing speed.
- Ideal Dimensions: Perfect for doors measuring 1 ¾” thick, 3’-9” wide, and 8’-0” tall.
- Aesthetic: Elegant and minimal visual intrusion with PVD Finish.
- Security and Protection: Provides excellent security and safety for doors.
Every spring-loaded door closers must wear out over time due to frequent use. While wear and tear is inevitable, Waterson mechanical hinges come with a 10-year warranty for both interior and exterior use. In contrast, hydraulic hinges have a 5-year warranty for interior and a 3-year warranty for exterior (See our warranty statement).
Go further with Mechanical vs Hydraulic Comparison here.
Waterson Stainless Steel Self Closing Door Hinges
Waterson door closer combines an overhead closer and hinge into one attractive component with optional hold-open and door stop features. These door closers are ideal for commercial openings, gates, and glass doors. The closers 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 door closers meet NFPA 80 and are UL 3-hour fire-rated, as well as being one of the best door closers 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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