Why You Should Use Self Closing Fire Door Hinges?
In emergency scenarios, a door that fails to close properly can endanger lives. Traditional closers are bulky and often exposed, while Waterson self closing fire door hinges install flush and protect the architectural integrity of the door. Apply to all areas - commercial, residential, industrial environments.
Common Issues They Solve:
- Fire door not closing properly — a top concern in compliance checks.
- Fire door hinge position — critical for safety certification.
- Door slamming or staying open — resolved through our adjustable tension design.
- Door hinges installation — simplified with built-in hybrid mechanics.
Waterson Fire Door Certified Performance
Waterson fire rated full mortise hinges are tested to ANSI/BHMA A156.17 and meet UL 3-hour fire rating standards. Their stainless steel construction (SS304/316) withstands heat, corrosion, and high-frequency usage in commercial and industrial settings.
How to Stop Fire Doors Slamming
Fire doors that slam shut create noise, safety risks, and long-term damage. In commercial and institutional buildings, slamming can compromise the latch, damage the frame, or even invalidate fire safety compliance.
Waterson Solution:
- Built-in soft-close system slows the door before final latching, best option for fire door not closing properly.
- Tool-free speed control lets you fine-tune closing strength.
- Heavy-duty stainless steel resists warp or fatigue under repeated force.
- Fire-rated for 3-hour UL compliance, ensuring peace of mind.
- No need overhead door closer make the appearance better.
How to Install New Door Hinges on Fire-Rated Doors
Waterson self-closing fire rated hinges combine hydraulic damping into the hinge body, offering a streamlined look and easy setup—ideal for modern fire doors.
Step-by-step Installation:
- Hinge Set: 2 hinges for ≤60" or <150 lbs
3 hinges for 60–90" or 150–330 lbs
4 hinges for 90–120" or 260–440 lbs - Fire door hinge position: Follow hinge labels (TOP, MID, BOT); don’t mix Waterson with other brands.
- Tools Needed: 3mm & 5mm hex wrenches, screwdriver, spreader bar (for DS models).
- Mounting: Mortise, drill, and align flush with door/frame.
- Pre-Check: Door must swing freely and latch before adjusting.
- Adjustments: Use hex keys to tune spring tension, swing, and latch speed.
Why Garage Doors Require Fire Rated Door Hinges
Fire rated door hinges are essential for garage doors because they help block fire and smoke from entering the rest of the building. Unlike standard hinges that can melt, warp, or break under high heat, fire rated hinges are built to withstand extreme temperatures. This ensures the door stays properly aligned and sealed during a fire, maintaining the barrier and giving people more time to react.
Why Elevator Doors Require Fire Rated Door Hinges
Elevator doors need fire-rated hinges to stop fire and smoke from spreading and to meet safety codes. These hinges are built to handle extreme heat, keeping the door firmly in place so it doesn’t fall out of the frame during a fire. It’s a critical part of protecting people and containing fire in multi-story buildings.
Waterson Fire Rated Door Hinge Common Applications
- Fire rated hotel door
- Exit door
- Commercial door
- Hotel door
- Stairwells door
- Residential door
- Classroom door
- Garage door
- Elevator door