The reason I was reaching out to you all is to find out if the 6-inch hinge is available for purchase. Are those hinges handed or non-handed?
This question may seem minor, but it reflects a challenge many professionals face. Choosing a handed hinge too early or the wrong one can lead to delays, rework, and frustration on-site. That’s where non-handed hinges offer a smarter, more flexible solution—especially when dealing with unknown or varied door swings.
Before placing your next order, it’s worth understanding how non-handed hinges can simplify planning and prevent costly mistakes.
What Is a Non Handed Hinge
A non handed hinge is designed to fit both left-hand and right-hand doors, regardless of the swing direction. You don’t need to choose orientation during purchase or installation. That flexibility reduces planning time and avoids costly mistakes—especially in commercial or large-scale projects where door swing varies.
By contrast, handed hinges require choosing the correct side (left or right), which limits flexibility and increases installation risk.
See how the in swing non handed hinge design works for both left- and right-hand doors.
Handed vs. Non Handed Hinges: Project Impact Overview
| Category | Handed Hinges | Non Handed Hinges |
|---|---|---|
| Swing Direction | Specific to left- or right-hand doors | Works on both left- and right-hand doors |
| Installation Flexibility | Limited; must match door swing | High; adaptable to any swing direction on-site |
| Project Delays | Possible delays due to reordering or wrong hardware | Prevents delays caused by mis-specified or misdelivered hinges |
| Labor Efficiency | Slower; hinges must be sorted, verified, and installed based on swing | Faster; same hinge can be installed universally without sorting |
| Cost Control | Reordering and restocking raise material and labor costs | Reduces waste, errors, and rework, supporting tighter cost management |
| Field Adaptability | Requires reordering if door swing changes late | Can accommodate changes in swing without impact |
| Maintenance Efficiency | Higher cost; replacement hinges must match hand | Streamlined; spares fit any orientation, reducing downtime |
| Best Use Cases | Static door plans with confirmed swing directions | Every commercial, residential, industrial, or hospitality project with varied or changing needs |
How Non Handed Hinges Strengthen ADA-Focused Design
In environments where ADA compliance is required like residential bathrooms, public restrooms, or accessible showers, non-handed hinges make planning easier. They’re not required by code, but they do support compliance and help future-proof accessibility.
- Avoids compliance errors: No left/right confusion for users, doors operate with proper force, don’t slam, and close quietly as required.
- Adapts to late swing changes: Non handed hinges meet ADA 404.2.4.1 maneuvering clearance without reordering if handling is reversed.
- Helps meet force & timing specs: These hinges support ≤ 5 lbf opening force and ≥ 5 sec closing time (ADA 404.2.8, ANSI/BHMA A156.4).
- Retrofit-friendly: Works for future ADA upgrades—no hardware change needed if door swing shifts.
Heavy Duty Non Handed Hinges: Where Performance and Safety Combine
Waterson heavy duty stainless steel non-handed hinges are more than just reversible—they’re engineered for demanding environments where durability, safety, and compliance are non-negotiable. Ideal for high-traffic commercial, hospitality, residential, and institutional settings, these hinges combines with outstanding features includes:
- Self Closing: Built-in spring that automatically closes doors after every use
- Anti Slamming: Prevents sudden door impact, reducing injury and damage
- ADA Compliant: Opens with <5 lb of force, closes in ≥5 seconds, no overhead clearance needed
- Fire Rated: Certified to meet 3-hour UL-list and NFPA 80 standards
- Stainless Steel: 304 & 316 SST provide corrosion resistance for long-lasting use
- ANSI/BHMA A156.17 Grade 1: Durability tested for over 1 million cycles
- Sleek Design: Suitable for modern interiors with finish options like black, satin, or bronze
- Heavy Duty: Built for hospitals, apartments, hotels, and high-use doors
- Custom Hinge Manufacturing: Meet unique project specifications and architectural needs
- Hold Open (Optional): Keeps door open at 90° when needed
Our Recent Spring Loaded Hinges Applications
Yes, as long as the hinge meets the proper fire-rated certifications such as UL-listing and NFPA 80.
Absolutely. They support required clearances and opening force limits, and are often used in ADA bathrooms and accessible entryways.
Waterson offer from 4×4, 4.5×4.5, 5×5, and 6×6 hinges typically used for heavier, taller doors or doors with high-frequency use. Always confirm door weight and frame dimensions before selecting.
Waterson Heavy Duty Self Closing Non Handed Hinges
Waterson self closing spring loaded 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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