In multifamily housing, such as apartments and student housing, details matter to residents’ comfort. Every element, including residential door hinges, should be thoughtfully selected.
It may seem simple, but architects must choose the right residential door hinges to avoid problems in the future. A regular traditional hinge often fails to function effectively.
3 Problems of Traditional Hinges Used in Multifamily Buildings
1) Slamming Doors
Traditional hinges lack an anti-slam feature, causing doors to slam shut. This creates disruptive noises in multifamily buildings with shared walls and hallways.
2) Maintenance Concerns
Doors are regularly opened and closed leading to faster wear. Over time these hinges may loosen, sag and cause misalignment. In the end it needed frequent maintenance, even replacements.
3) Safety Issues
- No self closing feature: sometimes rushing residents don’t have time or forget to make sure the door is closed properly, and may lead to unauthorized access.
- Not ADA and fire-rated: to maintain safety while giving smooth operation, multifamily buildings require fire rated and ADA certified hinges. Traditional hinges may not be able to provide the requirement.
What Features Should Architects Consider for Residential Door Hinges?
- Anti Slam Feature: Prevent loud door closure and preserve peace in multifamily housing.
- Heavy Duty: Support the door’s weight, maintain alignment, and prevent sagging
- Adjustability: Provide the desired door closure and easy correction to resolve misalignment.
- ADA Compliant and Fire Rated: Ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities and provide critical protection in the event of a fire.
- Self Closing: Makes sure doors close securely every time, offering safety and peace of mind for residents.
Compact Solution for Multifamily Housing: Spring Loaded Residential Door Hinges
Thinking about the frequent failure of traditional hinges, Waterson comes up with the complete solution for residential door hinges that deliver functionality and durability.
Soft Close Feature
Waterson residential hinges have two kinds of anti slam closing types; Mechanical and Hydraulic.
- Mechanical Hinges: Provides closing speed control that prevents slamming doors. They are great choices for higher frequency door usage.
- Hydraulic Hinges: Incorporates fluid dampers for precise control, with a buffering zone that provides a further control over door swing and closing speed. Ideal for breezy environments.
Adjustable Spring Feature
Waterson spring hinges are designed with a numerical panel. This allows users to adjust to the desired closing force helping to resolve misalignment, perfect for residential spring hinges.
Self Closing Mechanism
With built-in spring mechanism, Waterson residential hinges ensure a controlled closing every time. This feature provides convenience and helps maintain privacy of the residents.
Ensures Safety
Waterson hinges are 3-hours fire rated grade 1 UL listed and have gone through one million cycle tests meeting the NFPA 80 compliance.
Additionally these residential spring hinges are ADA compliant. Provide a clear opening width, controlled closing speed, and an accessible opening force. This way, everyone including disabled individuals can have access.
Elegant Finish Options
Waterson self closing hinges are available in a variety of refined finishes to match both modern and traditional architectural styles. They include Satin Brushed Stainless Steel (US32D), Flat Black (US19), Satin Brass (US4), Antique Bronze (US10B), and custom designs.
The finishes are not only stylish but also durable, designed to resist corrosion and wear over time — perfect for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Waterson Self Closing Hinges Case Studies
ClarkLindsey Project
Urbana, IL
Yorba Linda Temple
California, CA
Moreno Elementary School
Moreno Valley, CA
Palm House Hotel
Palm Beach, FL
Our spring loaded hinges provide all types of corners, including square corner hinges, ⅝ radius hinges, and ¼ radius hinges. To define which type is suitable for your door, read the ⅝ vs ¼ radius hinges here.
Waterson Spring Loaded Residential Hinges for Multifamily Housing
Waterson spring loaded self closing 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.
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.
Recent Post
Full Mortise vs Non-Mortise Hinge: What is The Difference
When choosing door hinges, you need to understand the difference between full mortise and non-mortise hinges—especially if you're concerned with durability, aesthetics, and application suitability. [...]
3 Essential Features in a Gate Closer for Chain Link Fence Gates
Chain link fence gates are widely used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings due to their strength and visibility. Common applications include securing yards, sports [...]
Swimming Pool Gate Closers: Self Closing for Safe Operation
The purpose of pool gates is to prevent unauthorized or unsupervised access, helping to protect from drowning or any accidents—especially involving children. However, these pool [...]