Historical buildings like churches and early city halls frequently had significant entrance doors that required heavy duty antique door hinges. In those days, the popular hinge size was 5” x 5” with 0.134-inch gauge stock. Those hinges were effective as door pivoting components, but they frequently caused significant slamming.
Challenging Retrofits for Contractors
Vintage door hinges and antique door hinges commonly appear in commercial and institutional buildings for the purpose of greater door control and reduced slamming. However, the replacement and maintainance of door hinges today poses a particular problem for contractors due to increasingly low availability. For example, rebuilding an antique door closer requires lots of time and expense in sourcing and installing vintage components. On the other hand, if one chooses to use a modern spring hinge, one runs into a gauge compatibility problem.
Antique Door Hinge Gauge and Templates
There are many types of antique hinges on the market. Today most door hinge manufacturers provide a 5” x 5” spring hinge gauge is 0.190 inches, which is too thick for most historical door openings. Available in both 0.190 and 0.134 gauge, Waterson heavy duty antique door hinges are ideally suitable for historical vintage door replacement. These antique door hinges maintain door closing and speed control functionality without compromising the building’s aesthetics. See our product selection table for closer hinge sizes, templates, and finishes.
Antique Hinge Application
Waterson offers multiple options to fit various antique door applications. These hinges utilize PVD, a real metal finish that surpasses ordinary steel in tarnish resistance. Enhanced through Titanium Ion Plating, this process boosts the performance of stainless steel, providing superior wear, scratch, and corrosion resistance, ensuring long-lasting beauty and functionality.
- Ball Bearing Hinges: Reduce friction for smooth, long-lasting operation, ideal for frequently used heavy doors.
- Butt Hinges: Provide strong support for heavy doors in residential and commercial settings, which are available in various sizes and finishes.
- Continuous (Piano) Hinges: Distribute weight evenly along the door’s length to prevent sagging.
- Concealed Hinges: Offer a clean, modern look while supporting heavy cabinet doors.
- Heavy Duty Weld-On Hinges: Provide extreme strength and durability for very heavy doors in industrial applications.
- Spring Hinges: Self-close heavy doors for enhanced security and safety.
For more insights about Waterson Commercial Stainless Steel Hinge, click here.
- Dust Regularly: Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust.
- Mild Cleaning: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap solution. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the hinges are completely dry to prevent water spots.
- Polish: Occasionally, use a stainless steel polish to maintain shine.
Waterson Heavy Duty Antique Door Hinges
Waterson Hinges combine an overhead closer and 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 suitable for both interior and all-weather exterior openings. See all our features.
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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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