Best Double Action Hinges

What is a double action hinge?

A double-action hinge, also known as a double-acting hinge, is a type of hinge that allows a door or gate to open in either direction, both inward and outward. This type of hinge is often used for doors or gates that need to be able to open in both directions, such as in a high-traffic area or in a location where it is not practical to have a door that opens in only one direction.

Double-action hinges work by having two sets of knuckles, one on each leaf of the hinge. Each set of knuckles allows the hinge to pivot in one direction, and when combined, allows for movement in both directions. This unique design allows for the hinge to open both inward and outward, providing convenience and flexibility in the movement of the door or gate. Saloon doors using double action hinges allow for much better function than the old accordion style doors.

One of the most common applications of double-action hinges is in commercial settings, such as retail stores, restaurants, and other public buildings. These types of buildings often have high foot traffic and need doors that can open in both directions to accommodate the flow of people. Double-action hinges are also commonly used in industrial settings, where heavy equipment and machinery need to be moved in and out of a building.

Double-action hinges are also commonly used in residential settings, such as homes, apartments, and condos. They are often used on doors that lead to a patio or balcony, as they provide easy access to the outside while also allowing for privacy and security.

Double-action hinges are available in a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and stainless steel, and come in a variety of finishes, such as satin chrome, polished brass, and oil-rubbed bronze. They are also available in different sizes, depending on the weight and size of the door or gate that they will be used on.

It's important to note that double-action hinges are not suitable for use with fire doors, as they do not provide the same level of fire resistance as a single-action hinge. Single-action hinge, also known as a single-acting hinge, is designed to open in one direction, typically outward, and are intended to be used with fire-rated doors. This is because double-action hinges allow for the door to open in both directions, which could potentially compromise the fire resistance of the door.

Double action doors, also known as saloon or cafe doors, are a great option for both homes and restaurants as they provide a level of privacy while still allowing easy movement of people and large items. They are perfect for separating a kitchen or dining area from a living space, while still allowing easy movement between the two areas.

For homes, double action doors can be used to separate a living room from a dining room, or to create a barrier between a kitchen and a dining area. They can be made from a variety of materials, such as wood, metal or glass, and can be finished in a variety of stains or paint colors to match the decor of the home. Popular styles for homes include French, panel, and louvered doors.

For restaurants, double action doors can be used to separate a kitchen from a dining area, or to create a barrier between a dining room and a bar area. They can be made from a variety of materials, such as wood, metal or glass, and can be finished in a variety of stains or paint colors to match the decor of the restaurant. Popular styles for restaurants include glass pivot or bi-folding doors.

When installing double action doors, it's important to ensure that they are properly leveled and hung, and that the hardware is properly aligned and functioning smoothly. It's also important to make sure that the doors are sturdy and durable enough to withstand frequent use.

Double action doors are a great option for both homes and restaurants as they provide privacy while still allowing easy movement of people and large items. They can be made from a variety of materials and come in

Double Action Spring Hinges

Adjustable Spring Tension
Great for Commercial Applications
Non-Hold Open
Mounts to the Sides of the Doors
Wide Variety of Finish Options

Double action spring hinges use a spring (located inside the barrels) to pull the doors to the center. The spring hinges can be adjusted, using less or more spring tension can be applied to the hinges. These hinges do NOT offer a hold-open feature. These hinges are normally used in commercial applications. The spring hinges allow you to have a “full height” door (minimum gapping is required). The spring hinges do have a faster swing but there is some noise associated with these hinges. The design of the spring hinges includes barrels and mounts to each side of the door. The door will fit into the flange between the barrels. Double action hinges are available in a wide range of sizes including 3", 4", 5", 6", and 7".

Double Action Gravity Hinges

Mounts to the top and bottom of the doors
Wide variety of hinge designs/ finishes
Hold Open Feature
Great for Residential and Commercial Applications
Soft Gravity Swing

Double action gravity hinges are the most popular hinges that people select with saloon doors. These hinges offer many features including a hold-open feature that makes their operation perfect for a commercial or residential application. These hinges use gravity to pull the doors back to the center. The swing with these hinges is slower than the spring hinges. There is no noise with the operation of the gravity hinges. These hinges do mount to the top and bottom of the doors, requiring some gap at the top and bottom of the doors. There are several different styles and brands of gravity hinges. The Bommer 7512 can be recessed into the bottom of the doors allowing for less gap requirement. These hinges are a pivot hinges, the bottom hinge will do the work and the top hinge acts as a pivot point.

Read more here, including all the pro and con of spring vs gravity hinges.

In conclusion, double-action hinges are a versatile and convenient option for doors and gates that need to open in both directions. They are commonly used in commercial, industrial, and residential settings, and are available in a variety of materials and finishes. However, it's important to keep in mind that double-action hinges are not suitable for use with fire doors.