Since the AIA in 2018, there has been an increased interest in Waterson hinges for many different projects. We have been inundated with questions by user, architects and spec writers in numerous states.
Are you also one of them? Below are some key questions which most people asked. If you can’t find the answer to your questions below, please feel free to contact us anytime—we’re happy to help!
Product Design Related
1. What do the digits at the top of the Waterson hinges mean?
All Waterson hinges have an adjustable spring and these numbers are power indicator numbers. When you turn the power adjustment to the larger numbers, the closing power will be increased.
2. How do Waterson hinge control speed?
Waterson hinges can control speed thanks to the hydraulic buffer and mechanical brake they are built with. By tightening the mechanical brake, you increase the brake force and reduce the speed. Whereas the hydraulic buffer works in a similar way to a stamper and is ideal for quieter zones like busy offices.
3. Is it possible to replace my current hinges with Waterson hinges? Will the Waterson hinge be compatible with my frames?
Yes. You can replace the existing hinges with Waterson hinges especially for customers in the US, because they are designed to meet the USA standard (ANSI/BHMA A156.7, Template Hinge Dimensions).
To make sure the size dimensions and hole patterns of our hinges, check out our technical drawing here.
K51 – 400 – Technical Drawing
4. There are different hole patterns on our current frames/hinges compared to the ones listed on your catalogs and website. Do you have any hinges with alternative hole patterns and leaf designs?
Our soft-closing hinges currently follow the standard ANSI A156.7 screw hole patterns to ensure compatibility with most cabinetry. However, if there’s enough interest in custom configurations, we’d be happy to explore making them!
Feel free to reach out if you have specific needs, and we’ll do our best to help. Contact us here.
5. What finishes can you offer?
Waterson provides a variety of aesthetically pleasing Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) finishes for self closing stainless steel hinges. These include Satin Stainless Steel, Satin Brass, Dark Satin Bronze, and Flat Black.
These are elegant and attractive finishes that are suitable for any high-end commercial or residential establishment and are highly regarded by architects, interior designers, and hotel owners, to name a few.
6. What is Waterson warranty policy?
Indoor applications – Waterson provides a 5 Year Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty.
Outdoor applications – Waterson provides a 3 Year Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty.
Go further with Waterson Hinges Warranty here.
Recommended Products for Different Doors
7. What Waterson hinge model would you recommend for hotel room doors that are fire rated?
We would recommend the K51M-450-A3 (3 pack: bottom, middle and top – SA, SA, and SA1).
They are self closing, fire rated, and great for high frequency use such as for hotel room doors.
Waterson Hotel Room Door Hinges Applications
8. What Waterson hinge model would you recommend for use with glass doors?
The hydraulic hinge is one of the most popular choices for glass doors, however it all comes down to the specific application you have. First of all, you will use different hinges between:
Check this to understand more about the right glass door hinges here and read about the unique consideration for frameless glass door gate.
9. What Waterson hinge would you recommend for use with a fence gate?
We would recommend two options to choose, the K51MP for hinges that need to be installed between doors and the K51P for hinges mounted to posts.
Read more about fence gate hinges here.
Waterson Heavy Duty Soft Closing Hinges
Waterson self and soft closing door hingescombine an overhead hinge into one attractive component with optional hold-open and door stop features. These hinges are ideal for commercial openings, gates, and glass doors. The hinges 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 hinges meet NFPA 80 and are UL 3-hour fire-rated, as well as being one of the best door hinges for both interior and all-weather exterior openings. 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 Information
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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