I have a client who wants me to install a double swinging floor hinge on the kitchen to dining room door. You know the type that you nudge with your hip when your hands are full in order to open it. It opens in both directions and can be locked in the open position both ways, too. Anyone know where I can find one? Any experience in installing, or tricks/pitfalls? Thanks.
Jim
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Replies
Jim, an internet search found a couple possible sources. Thought I saw an example in either the Vandykes or Rensup catalogs a while back, but didn't see any on their websites just now.
Anyway, a couple links:
Looks like this one mounts to the floor, which I think is what you're looking for ...
http://houseofantiquehardware.com/s.nl/sc.10/category.41/.f
I think these are spring-loaded side-mount hinges ... probably not what you have in mind ...
http://lahardware.com/product.lasso?code=dblhinge
I'm pretty sure i saw one in home despot the other day, with all the random Stanley door/cabinet/gate hardware. You might give a look.
zak
Use the first link that WNYguy gave you. That type hinge has a much longer operational life than the second type, which is more of a bomber hinge. While a the side mount hinge will work, the size gets proportionately larger with the weight of the door, to the point that they get butt ugly real quick.
If the floor mount hinge is used in a poured slab, the location should be blocked out before the pour,and must be cut out in an existing slab. Wood floors are much easier installs, but good solid blocking is essential.
BTW, I have found that a slight bullnose on the door(s) helps keep the leading edge clearance a minimum.
Dave
Butler door (or pivot) hinges, are what you're looking for. Check these out:
http://houseofantiquehardware.com/s.nl/sc.10/category.41/.f?GCID=S14464x015&KEYWORD=pivot%20hinge&gclid=CNKe65u-6IICFSGRPgodHmBAxQ
J. D. Reynolds
Home Improvements
There are two types of basic hinges to do this. One is the Bommer type, with a large spring. This lower hinge is cutout of the lower corner of the door and two cover plates cover the hole and allow access. The door will swing both ways, and has a hold open detent each way. A plate mounts on/in the floor. The close postion is not adjustable.
The other type is a more commercial application and is much nicer. It consists of a pair of damped cylinders in a box that mounts just under the finish floor, or just above the head jamb. This type swings two ways, has hold open detents, but also has adjustable damping to slow the close. The close position is adjustable. Also has a pivot adjustment so the door can be adjusted for plumb.
Both types need to have a slight radius on both the hinge stile and the free stile. The nicer pivots are available from C R Laurence, and commercial hardware dealers. The Bommer are available at residential hardware dealers and some home centers.
Enjoy,
Dave S
Thanks to all for your responses. I'm ordering one from the recommended website. I'll post a report on the success or lack of in the installation. again thanks.
You need an Eliason or Chase door. They are double-acting and easy to swing. They mount in a cased opening and consist of two brackets with pivots. Very easy to hang if your opening is plumb and square. Look them up on the internet.
My childhood home had louvered short doors, like a saloon, and grandma's house had a full door between the kitchen and dining room. My only advice is that a small window in the door is nice to prevent accidental crashes.