Commercial door hinge modification is the process of adjusting, repairing, or replacing the hinges on a commercial door. It improves its functionality, security, or appearance which can upgrade the doors. There are different types of commercial door hinges, such as butt hinges, continuous hinges, ball bearing hinges, and spring hinges.
Each type of hinge has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the size, weight, and usage of the door. Commercial door hinge modification can involve using tools like a knuckle bender, a hinge doctor, or a wrench to adjust the alignment, tension, or gap of the hinges.
It can also involve replacing the hinge pins, tips, screws, or other accessories to boost the performance of the aesthetics of the hinges. The commercial door hinge modification can help extend the lifespan of the door, prevent damage to the door or the frame, and ensure safety and compliance with fire codes and regulations.
Methods and Tools for Commercial Door Hinge Modification
There are different methods and tools for doing commercial door hinge modification. It depends on the type and condition of the hinges and the door. Here are some general ideas that you can follow to do commercial door hinge modification:
Look for the Issue
Identify the issue and the type of hinge so that you can easily do the modifications as per requirement. It can also save time so that you can utilize your time in the right way.
Collect the Necessary Tools and Materials
For modification, you may need tools such as a knuckle bender, a hinge doctor, a wrench, a screwdriver, a wire brush, a hammer, a chisel, a drill, and a level. You may also need materials like lubricants, shims, hinge pins, tips, screws, anti-dust spray, or paint.
Remove or Repair the Hinges
If you find any damage beyond repair then you may need to replace them with new ones. For that, you may use the same type of hinges or a different one. It can depend on your preferences and the compatibility with the door and the frame.
You may need to drill new holes or chisel out the old ones to fit the new hinges. By using hinge pins, tips, screws, or other accessories you can enhance the performance or aesthetics of the hinges.
Lubricate and Clean the Hinges
Prevent the hinges from rust, corrosion, and friction on the metal parts. For that, you should lubricate the hinges with a quality lubricate, such as silicone spray, and lithium grease. You should also clean the hinges with a wire brush or a vinegar solution and apply some anti-rust spray or paint if required.
Test the Door and Check the Clearances
When you finish the commercial door hinge modification, you should test the door and check the clearance around the door and the frame. The door should open and close smoothly and securely, without sagging, dragging, or binding. The clearances should be even and consistent, as per the fire codes and regulations.
Common Problems with Commercial Door Hinges
There are some common problems with commercial door hinges:
Squeaking Hinges
It is often caused by friction between the hinge components due to a lack of lubrication. You can fix this by using some penetrating oil or olive oil on the hinges and wiping away any excess.
Loose Hinges
It causes the door to sag or not close properly. You can fix this by tightening the screws using a manual or electric screwdriver.
Cracked Hinges
It can compromise the stability and security of the door. By replacing the entire hinge with a new one you can fix this problem.
Door Binding or Dragging
It can occur when the door is not aligned with the frame or the hinges are not installed correctly. But by doing the adjustment in the position of the hinges or the door jam you can fix it.
Rust or Corrosion
This problem can damage the hinges and make them difficult to move or remove. By proper cleaning with a wire brush or a vinegar solution, you can remove the rust or corrosion. You can apply some anti-rust spray or paint to avoid this.
Maintenance of Commercial Door Hinges
To give long life to your commercial door hinges, you must ensure their functionality, security, and durability. With proper care and maintenance, you can increase the lifespan of door hinges. Such as:
- Regularly lubricate the hinges with quality lubricants and prevent them from rust, corrosion, and friction on the metal parts.
- Keep the screws and bolts tight to ensure the door stays properly aligned and to prevent damage to the door or the frame.
- Inspect hinges occasionally for signs of wear or damage.
- Get repairs or replacements from a professional service provider.
- Don't apply excessive force or weight on the door as it can strain the hinges and cause them to break or bend.
- Close and open the door gently and smoothly.
Modification with Different Type of Door
You can modify your commercial door hinges to fit a different type of door. But it depends on the type of door and the type of hinge you have. Some commercial door hinges are designed to fit specific door materials, sizes, and weights. These may not be compatible with other types of doors.
Such as a heavy-duty hinge that is suitable for a metal door may not work well with a wood door. You may need to drill new holes, chisel out the old ones, or use shims to adjust the position of the hinges or the door jamb.
However, some commercial door hinges are quite versatile and can fit different types of doors with minor modifications. Such as a ball bearing hinge that is used for a standard interior door can also be used for a glass door with the addition of hinge tips.
You may also be able to use decorative hinges like T-strap hinges or barn door hinges, for different types of doors, as long as they can support the weight and size of the door. Furthermore, you should consult with a professional service provider or a hardware expert to ensure the modification is safe, secure, and compliant with the fire codes and regulations. You should also have the proper tools and materials.
Specialized Commercial Hinge Designs
The specialized commercial hinge designs can be customized or modified as per the specific applications, industries, or functions. They are quite different from the standard ones in terms of shape, size, materials, movement, or features. Some of the common specialized commercial hinge designs are:
Spring Hinges
These hinges have a spring mechanism that allows the door to close automatically or stay open at a certain angle. They are often used for fuel filler flaps, fire doors, or self-closing doors.
Swing Clear Hinges
According to its name, it allows the door to swing completely clear to the opening and creates more space and accessibility. They are used for wheelchair access, hospital beds, or furniture.
Pocket Pivot Hinges
It allows the door to pivot into a recessed pocket in the wall and makes the door disappear when open. You have seen such hinges used with closets, pantries, or room dividers.
Raised Barrel Hinges
It has a raised or offset barrel which allows the door to clear the obstacle or a thick frame. They are used for doors with molding, trim, or casing.
Slip-in Hinges
These have a removable pin which allows the door to be easily installed or removed without unscrewing the hinges. You can use this for cabinets, furniture, or temporary doors.
Interim Hinges
It has two pivot points that allow the door to fold in half and swing in either direction. You can use such hinges for bi-fold doors, closet doors, or room dividers.
Hinge Pin Door Stops
It has a built-in stop which prevents the door from opening too far and damaging the wall or the hinge. It makes them useful for interior doors, exterior doors, or heavy doors.
Notably, these are some of the specialized commercial hinge designs. As per their design, it can give you various benefits so what suits your requirement, you can choose any.
End Notes!
Hope! This blog helped you to know more about commercial door hinge modification along with their specialized designs. You may require special installation, maintenance, or compatibility with the door and the frame. That's why it is important to take some expert advice but only from professionals, like Park Avenue Locks. We are one of the fastest-growing and leading online stores for Commercial Door hardware.
With over 30 years of experience we are one of the largest distributors of hollow metal doors and frames in the U.S. We are door hardware wholesale suppliers. On our online platform, you can get a variety of products, such as commercial door hinges, commercial door closers, door locks, commercial continuous door hinges, and more.
Our expert and professional team will help you if you need any help from us. Last but not least, if you have any doubts then feel free to ask us, we will be pleased to hear from you!
