Do self closing door hinges work?

Self closing door hinges, also known as spring hinges or self closing hinges, are a type of door hinge designed to automatically close the door after it has been opened. They work by using the force of an internal spring to pull the door closed once it is within a certain angle of being fully open. Self closing hinges are commonly used in residential homes on doors where you want the door to close automatically, such as bathroom doors, doors to the outside, closet doors, etc. They help ensure doors are kept closed when not in use.

How do self closing door hinges work?

Self closing door hinges contain a spring mechanism inside the body of the hinge. This spring pushes against the hinge knuckle, providing a constant force that tries to rotate the hinge closed once the door is opened.

When the door is closed, the spring inside the hinge is compressed. As you open the door, the spring decompresses and pushes back against the hinge knuckle, generating a torque that causes the hinge to rotate closed. Once the door reaches a certain open angle (typically around 70-90 degrees), this spring torque overcomes the weight of the door and forces it closed.

The spring force in the hinge can be adjusted by tightening or loosening a screw inside the hinge body. This lets you control the rate at which the door closes and how far open the door needs to be before the self closing action starts taking effect. Most self closing hinges have this adjustability so you can fine tune them for optimum performance on a particular door.

Types of self closing door hinges

There are a few different types of self closing hinges available:

Spring hinges: These are the most common type of self closing hinge. They contain a coil spring inside the body of the hinge that generates the closing force. Spring hinges are simple, reliable, and inexpensive.

Cam action hinges: Instead of a coil spring, these hinges use a cam mechanism that twists against the hinge knuckle to close the door. The profile of the cam can provide a variable closing force that is stronger when the door is open wider.

Gravity self closing hinges: Rely on gravity to close the door rather than an internal spring. The shape and pivot point of the hinge is designed to use the weight of the door to rotate it closed once open past a certain angle.

Hydraulic hinges: Use fluid compression inside a piston cylinder to generate the closing force. Hydraulic hinges provide smooth and controlled closing motion.

Concealed hinges: Contain the spring mechanism inside the door frame rather than the hinge itself. This provides a clean, flush hinge appearance on the door.

Benefits of self closing door hinges

Here are some of the benefits that self closing hinges provide:

– Automatically close doors for convenience and preventing heat/AC loss.

– Help ensure doors are kept closed when not in use for privacy and noise control.

– Self closing bathroom doors prevent odors and noises from wafting through the home.

– Close doors to the outside to prevent bugs and pests from entering.

– Create a tidy appearance by keeping closet and cupboard doors shut when not accessed.

– Self closing mechanisms can act as soft-close as well, providing quiet and gentle door closure.

– Require no batteries or electricity – the spring mechanism provides force mechanically.

– Adjustable spring tension lets you customize the force for each door.

– Durable construction withstands years of use with proper maintenance.

Disadvantages of self closing hinges

While self closing hinges have their benefits, some potential downsides include:

– The closing force can be excessive and slam doors if not adjusted properly.

– Springs may wear out over time and need replacing.

– More expensive than standard hinges.

– Self closing action may be undesirable in some doors, like entry doors.

– Concealed hinges require expertise to install properly within the door frame.

– Door must be mounted plumb and square to avoid binding from the closing force.

– Ongoing maintenance may be needed to lubricate hinge pins and tighten mounting screws.

Ideal uses for self closing hinges

Here are the situations where self closing hinges make the most sense:

– Bathroom doors – Prevent odors and noise from escaping, while ensuring privacy.

– Doors leading outside – Close these against drafts, bugs, and dirt. Great for patio doors, garage entry doors, basement exterior doors, etc.

– Kitchen cupboard doors – Keep these closed to conceal contents and prevent accidents.

– Closet doors – Automatically hide contents and prevent clutter.

– Interior doors needing soundproofing – The constant closure ensures noise and conversations don’t travel as easily.

– Child proofing doors – Self closing hinges keep curious kids out of dangerous rooms.

– Screened porch doors – Close these against wind gusts.

– Pet doors – Keep pets from wandering where they shouldn’t.

How to install self closing hinges

Installing self closing hinges takes a bit more care than normal hinges, but can be done DIY with the right techniques:

1. Measure and mark: Mark exact positions for the hinges on the door and frame. Measure multiple times to ensure accuracy.

2. Cut mortises: Cut rectangular mortises into the door edge and frame to recess the hinge bodies. Be precise with dimensions.

3. Drill pilot holes: Drill small pilot holes for the hinge screws. This prevents splitting the wood.

4. Install hinge halves: Screw the hinge halves into the mortises using the provided screws.

5. Adjust tension: Turn the tension adjust screw to provide the proper closing force for the door.

6. Test operation: Open and close the door multiple times and make any tension adjustments needed.

7. Seal and lubricate: Seal around hinges with caulk and lubricate hinge pins for smooth operation.

Taking care during installation to position the hinges accurately ensures the self closing mechanism works properly for the life of the door.

Maintenance tips for self closing hinges

Self closing hinges require periodic maintenance to keep working smoothly:

– Lubricate the hinge pins every 6-12 months using penetrating oil or lubricant spray. This prevents grinding and sticking.

– Tighten any loose hinge screws to prevent sagging and ensure proper door alignment.

– Adjust the tension as needed to compensate for spring stretch over time.

– Clean dirt and debris from the hinge barrels using compressed air. Built-up grime can restrict motion.

– Ensure the door is plumb and square in the frame so the closing force doesn’t bind the door.

– Replace worn out springs and cam mechanisms. Self closing hinges are designed to be easily serviceable.

– Use threadlocker on tension adjust screws so they stay fixed in position.

– Seal any new hinge screw holes with wood putty to prevent moisture damage.

With periodic inspection and maintenance, self closing hinges will function smoothly for many years. Catching issues early prevents more serious problems down the road.

Signs your self closing hinges need adjusting or repair

Here are some signs to watch for that indicate your self closing hinges need adjustment or replacement:

– Door doesn’t fully close by itself past a certain angle.

– Slamming or violent closing motion.

– Hesitation when closing – slow or sticking.

– Loose tension adjust screw that won’t stay fixed.

– Sagging door that sticks on the floor before fully closing.

– Visible damage like cracked hinge barrels or bent pins.

– Corroded, scratched or binding hinge pins.

– Wobbly hinge mounting in door or frame.

– Loose or damaged screws.

– Creaking noises when door operates.

– Oil leaking from hydraulic hinge mechanism.

Catching these issues early and performing the needed adjustments or repairs ensures the hinges continue working properly for a long time.

Best practices when using self closing hinges

Here are some best practices to follow when using self closing hinges in your home:

– When installing new hinges, use all the same brand and model for consistency.

– Use heavy duty or ball bearing hinges on exterior doors subject to wind forces.

– Make sure doors swing freely without rubbing floors or hitting walls.

– Allow adequate clearance for doorstops so the closing force isn’t absorbed by obstructions.

– Keep exterior door thresholds clean and free of debris that could impede closure.

– Check that door seals and weatherstripping aren’t inhibiting closure.

– When painting doors, use thin coats of paint and avoid getting paint buildup in hinge barrels.

– Ensure doors are properly plumb in their frames for smooth self closing operation.

– Have young children use doors slowly and gently to prevent finger injuries.

Following these best practices allows you to gain the full benefits of self closing hinges without issues down the road.

Conclusion

Self closing door hinges provide convenience and several other benefits by automatically returning doors to the closed position after they are opened. The internal spring or hydraulic mechanism produces a closing force that rotates the hinge shut when the door reaches a certain open angle. While more expensive than normal hinges, self closing hinges are an asset for doors needing frequent automatic closure. With periodic maintenance and adjustment, they will provide years of smooth and reliable operation. Following best installation practices and using them in ideal situations will maximize the usefulness of self closing hinges in your home.