Can You Put Hinges on Glass?
Yes—but not like solid doors that need drilling with screws. Glass requires:
- No drilling stress zones (unless specified)
- Controlled clamping pressure
- Even force distribution across the panel edge
Waterson glass frame hinges are designed specifically for glass-to-frame connections, allowing secure mounting without compromising the structural integrity of tempered or laminated glass.
How to Frame Glass With Wood?
Wood frames introduce variability—movement, moisture response, and tolerance drift.
For wood applications:
- Reinforce hinge mounting points
- Controll the compression to avoid glass edge stress
- Compensate glass hinges for material movement
Waterson glass to frame hinges heavy duty models are commonly specified where wood frames are used in commercial interiors, hospitality, and high-traffic environments, ensuring consistent performance despite frame movement.
What Is the Right Load Rating for Glass to Frame Hinges?
Based on the specification table:
- ≤ 6'-0" × 4'-0"
Max load: 150 lbs
2 hinges required - ≤ 7'-0" × 4'-0"
Max load: 260 lbs
3 hinges required - ≤ 8'-0" × 4'-0"
Up to 260 lbs → 3 hinges
Up to 330 lbs → 4 hinges
These specs apply to glass to frame hinges heavy duty installations with a minimum frame thickness of 1-3/4" (40 mm). Check the Catalog here.
Floor Hinges vs Spring Hinges
Floor hinges (floor springs) are installed below floor level, which increases installation time, cost, and future maintenance complexity. They are heavier to open, unsuitable for outdoor use, and often require invasive floor work for adjustment or replacement. While they support wider hold-open angles, their higher system cost and brand-dependent lifespan make them less flexible for long-term planning.
On the other hand, Waterson spring loaded glass door hinges mount directly on the door, allowing faster installation, easier servicing, and lower total cost. They are easier to open, suitable for outdoor use, and offer controlled hold-open positions at 90°, 110°, and 120°, backed by a 5-year warranty. For most commercial glass doors, they provide a more efficient and predictable solution.
Waterson Glass to Frame Hinges Outstanding Features
Waterson glass to frame hinges are built for projects where tolerance, durability, and long-term reliability matter more than appearance alone.
- Soft Closing: Protect the gate from sudden impacts, preventing injuries and eliminating breaking glass with controlled closure
- ANSI/BHMA A156.17 Cycle: Engineered to last 1.000.000 open-close operations without performance loss. See the warranty.
- Load Bearing Capacity: Waterson glass door hinges efficiently support significant loads – three hinges can bear over 260 lbs, and four hinges up to 440 lbs.
- Durable Material: Made with 304 and 316 stainless steel, corrosion-resistant, and designed for heavy, long-term use.
- Adjustability: Allows precise control over closing speed with 3 adjustable settings to meet specific requirements in meeting room applications.
- Low Force Opening: Hinges that allow smooth and effortless gate operation, enhancing user experience, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Hold Open: Waterson glass door hinges offer a feature that stops gates at 85-90 degrees without movement.
Waterson Heavy Duty Glass to Frame Hinges Common Applications
- Office glass doors (glass to metal frame)
- Hospitality interiors (glass to wood frame)
- Retail storefronts and showcases
- Corporate partitions and conference rooms
- Black glass to frame hinges
- Silver glass to frame hinges
- Gold glass to frame hinges
- Bronze glass to frame hinges