Swing Clear Hinges: The Ideal Swing Away ADA Door Solution

As the Baby Boom generation enters its golden years, the demand for mobility solutions is growing. Besides, over 54 million Americans currently have a disability, and this number is on the rise, as noted by the U.S. Department of Justice. It’s in this scenario that Waterson sells their swing clear hinges, designed to provide optimal ADA door swing clearance.

What is Swing Clear Hinges

ADA door swing clearance refers to the amount of unobstructed space required for a door to swing open, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility aids, such as wheelchairs. These hinges, often called swing clear hinges, have a unique design where the hinge barrel is positioned in a way that allows the door to swing completely clear of the doorway. This results in an expandable, more accessible passageway within homes or any other spaces. By employing offset door hinges, you allow the door’s radius to fully extend, making the doorway significantly more accessible.

Door Swing Clearance Standards

Due to this population transformation, the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) has been enforcing American Disability Act (ADA) and Fair Housing Act (FHA) building codes as they relate to those with disabilities. FHA 32” minimum width door clearance is a significant challenge for architects who actively design buildings that are accessible and code compliant.

Maximize Accessibility with Waterson Hinges

Waterson swing clear hinges not only solve the dreaded clearance problem but also provide a number of key benefits. While other swing-away hinges provide 32” clear width when doors are open at 90°, Waterson’s unique wide-diameter barrel design provides more than 33” clearance. This added clearance is welcome insurance space in the event of installation oversights, as well as ensures that you avoid possible legal ramifications due to not meeting the minimum 32” code compliance.

Parallel to this, Waterson swing clear hinges outstanding design provide even greater features, including:

• Durability: The hinges support over 260 lbs with three units and up to 400 lbs with four.
• Fire-rated Compliance: Meet UL 3-hour fire-rating and other fire-rated standards
• ADA Compliance: Facilitate safe and easy door access to reduce injury risks for the elderly and children.
• Opening Force: The hinges require a minimal opening force of 5 lbs, aligning with ADA accessibility standards for user ease.
• Multiple PVD Finish: Offer both aesthetic versatility and enhanced durability against corrosion. Waterson also provide custom color service for client’s special needs.

Project Reference

• Project: FLOR 401 Lofts by Skid Row Housing Trust in Los Angeles.
• Design Principle: Emphasis on “design equity” to make affordable housing less institutional and more attractive.
• Features: Includes Waterson closer hinges with hydraulic mechanisms and swing clear types, meeting ADA requirements.
• Facilities: Offers 98 studio apartments, support services, and spaces for therapeutic community activities.
• Target Group: Veterans experiencing homelessness, individuals with low incomes, and those with special needs.
• Architectural Approach: Koning Eizenburg Architecture uses high-quality materials to create a dignified, home-like environment.

Read more about the project here FLOR 401 Lofts, Los Angeles

Waterson Stainless Steel Swing Clear Hinges

Waterson Swing Clear 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 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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