Why Waterson Works Only for Side-Swing Horizontal Door Hinges

“Hello Waterson team,

Wondering if any of your soft closing hinges are suitable for horizontal installation. The range of motion is between 20 and 8 degrees. Do you have any products that are suitable for this application?”

This is one of many technical inquiries we’ve received over the years. At first glance, the question seems normal. However, Waterson hinges can function as horizontal door hinges when the door swings side to side, not upward or downward.

That distinction is critical. In this article, we define horizontal door hinges as those used in doors that swing sideways along a horizontal door plane—such as gates or wide hatches—not top-hinged doors like cabinet flaps or lift-up panels.

Understanding why upward or downward swing causes problems begins with a look at how spring loaded self-closing hinges are actually designed to work.

What a Self Closing Door Hinge Is Designed to Do

Self closing spring loaded door hinges are engineered to return the door to a fully closed position once opened. This function is essential in environments where doors must close consistently for safety, privacy, or compliance—such as fire-rated stairwells, restroom access, ADA entryways, and other high-traffic commercial areas.

While these mechanisms perform reliably in vertical swing doors and even in side-swing horizontal installations, they are not suitable for doors that open vertically—such as top-hinged panels, lids, or flaps.

What Goes Wrong When Waterson Hinges Are Used in Lift-Up or Top-Hinged Doors

The issue isn’t the weight of the panel or the range of motion. The problem lies in how these hinges operate internally. When mounted sideways, the following technical failures can be expected:

• Gravity misalignment: The hinge’s spring and cam mechanisms are designed for vertical force paths. When flipped into a top-hinged position, they no longer align or function properly.
• Valve malfunction: In hybrid models, hydraulic control depends on gravity-fed flow. That flow becomes inconsistent—or stops entirely—when installed in a horizontal or inverted position.
• Lack of reset: Without gravity assisting the mechanism, the hinge may fail to return to its neutral state, resulting in loss of automatic closure.
• Unpredictable latching: Especially in controlled-angle setups like 20° to 8°, the latch mechanism becomes unreliable or fails altogether.

These issues aren’t rare exceptions—they are inherent design limitations when self-closing hinges are installed in non-compatible orientations.

What If I Really Need a Lift-Up or Downward-Swinging Application?

If your project involves upward- or downward-swinging panels—such as flaps, lids, or lift-up doors—it’s best to use components specifically designed for those motions.

• Torque hinges: Provide controlled resistance and maintain panel position at any angle.
• Friction stays: Offer fixed positioning and hold-open functionality for side or top-hinged applications.
• Gas struts or lid supports: Deliver lift-assist and smooth closing motion in upward or downward setups.

These alternatives are engineered to perform under vertical force dynamics and ensure reliability in non-swinging door applications.

Credit on Wixroyd and Apexstone

Best Waterson Use Cases: Where The Hinges Truly Shine

While Waterson self-closing spring door hinges are not suited for top-hinged or vertically swinging configurations, they are an ideal solution for vertical doors or horizontal side-swing systems where consistent, hinge code compliant closure is required. In these contexts, Waterson self-closing hinges stand out for their tested durability, adjustability, and regulatory compliance:

• Fire Rated Doors: UL-listed for 3-hour fire ratings and NFPA 80 compliance.
• High Commercial Use: ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 certified, tested to over 1,000,000 cycles
• ADA Compliant: <5 lb opening force, ≥5 sec close time, no overhead clearance required.
• 304 & 316 Stainless Steel: Long-lasting, rust-resistant performance
• 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

Our Recent Commercial and Residential Hinge Applications

Waterson Commercial Self Closing Glass Door Hinges

Waterson self closing spring 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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