Types of Swing Gate Hinges
Basically, there are two common swing gate hinge type: Single Action vs. Double Action Hinges
Single swing gate hinges open in one direction only, giving controlled travel, reliable latch alignment, and consistent closing — the requirements for exterior gates, access control points, and commercial swing systems.
Double-action hinges open both in and out, suitable for café or service doors, but they provide less closing consistency, weaker latch control, and reduced structural stability for gates.
Waterson swing gate hinges are engineered as single-action hinges to ensure proper alignment, speed control, and long-term mechanical accuracy.
Can Waterson Swing Gate Hinges Open to 180°?
Yes.
Waterson swing gate hinges can open up to 180°. Both mechanical and hydraulic hinges work best from 0–120°. However, if the door is opened from 120–180°:
- Mechanical hinges: Hinges won’t break, but the door will slam because there is no speed/latch control in that range.
- Hydraulic hinges: Repeated use beyond 120° will slowly damage the internal system.
Therefore, we recommend using swing gate hinges within 0–120° for the most optimal speed/latch and hydraulic performance.
How Many Hinges Does a Swing Gate Need?
Hinge count isn’t random — it follows the gate’s height, weight, and the level of closing control required. For heavy-duty swing gate hinges, use this as your baseline:
Hinge Set Guide
- 2 hinges for gates ≤60" or under 150 lbs
- 3 hinges for gates 60–90" or 150–330 lbs, depending on hinge configuration
- 4 hinges for gates 90–120" or 260–440 lbs, depending on hinge configuration
Follow the hinge labels TOP / MID / BOT in order.
* Note: do not mix multiple hinge brands. Differing tolerances will throw off alignment, and no amount of tuning will recover it.
How Can I Prevent My Gate From Swinging Too Far?
Waterson offers optional stainless steel door stop collars that control the gate’s opening range without needing floor, wall, or overhead stops. The collar mounts directly onto the hinge barrel and is typically installed on the top and bottom hinges for full control.
Finish options include Satin, Black, Brass, and Bronze, and can be matched per project requirements.
Available Door Stop Types:
- WP01: 90° stop
- WP02: 120° stop
From Standard Hinges to Self & Soft Swing Gate Hinges
Waterson self & soft closing swing gate hinges are engineered specifically for exterior and commercial gate systems where strength, control, and long-term stability matter.
Key features include:
- Stainless Steel 304 / 316: Corrosion-resistant for exterior gates exposed to moisture, snow, chemicals, and de-icing salts.
- Hydraulic Soft-Close: Prevents slamming and stabilizes swing motion in windy or high-traffic environments.
- Self-Closing: Provides consistent closing force for gated entries using latches or access control.
- Adjustable Closing & Latching Speed: Allows precise tuning for seasonal temperature shifts and varying gate loads.
- High Load Capacity: Supports heavy swing gates (260–330 lbs+) while maintaining long-term alignment.
- PVD Finishes: Architectural options including Dark Bronze (695), tested beyond 1,000,000 cycles.
- Code-Considered: ADA-friendly opening force, UL-listed, and BHMA A156.17 Grade 1 performance.
- Flexible Mounting: Compatible with full-surface, mid-post, and heavy-duty gate structures.
Waterson Heavy Duty Swing Gate Hinges Common Applications
- Swing Baby Safety Gate
- Swing Glass Door
- Wood Swing Gate
- Metal Swing Gate
- Swing Driveway Gate
- Swing Barrier Gate
- Industrial swing gate hinges
- Inside swing gate hinges
- Black swing gate hinges
- Silver swing gate hinges
- Gold swing gate hinges
- Bronze swing gate hinges