Door hinges may seem like a small detail, but they can have a big impact on the performance and look of your doors. Understanding the different types of hinges can help you decide what type is best for your home.
Hinges come in many different designs and materials, and some are even concealed. Some are designed for impact resistance and others for everyday use.
Material
The base material of a hinge can greatly affect its cost, durability and range of applications. Some examples of different hinge materials include steel, brass, wrought iron, aluminum, and stainless steel. In my experience, Steel is a commonly used material in hinges because of its strength and relatively low cost. It can be made more durable by adding chromium or nickel to it, which makes it corrosion-resistant. Brass hinges are often plated for aesthetics and can be welded, which opens up more design options for them.
When choosing a hinge manufacturer, consider the level of customer service. Ideally, you want to be able to talk with a live person not a machine recording when you have questions about installation or the product itself. You should also have access to a knowledge base that provides answers to frequently asked questions. These factors can make a huge difference in whether or not you choose a specific hinge company for your project.
Finish
A hinge manufacturer applies a finish to their products in order to protect them from wear and tear. They choose a metal that works best for the hinge’s application and design specifications. For instance, they might choose a material like stainless steel because it is affordable and durable. Other options might include iron, bronze or brass. These are often more expensive than stainless steel, but they offer a different look for a space.
It is also important to think about the thickness of the door you’ll be using with your hinges. If the door is very thick, then you’ll want to consider getting larger hinges to accommodate it. If you’re replacing existing hinges, it can be difficult to determine what size to order. The easiest way to find out is to hold up a dime or quarter in the corner of the hinge. If it fits nicely, then you have 5/8” radius corner hinges, and you’ll want to order these when replacing yours.
Design
In most cases, the hinge type you choose will make a huge difference in the functionality and longevity of your door. That’s why it’s important to consider all of your options and ask for help when analyzing your project’s requirements.
For example, you might choose a pin and barrel continuous hinge for heavy duty applications. These types of hinges extend between joints and offer a stronger, more durable option than plain or spring butt hinges. They’re typically used in areas that require frequent use and are great for industrial applications.
Another factor to consider is the base material. Hinges often come in a variety of materials and the base material will influence price. Choosing the right hinge type can save you money in the long run by reducing maintenance, repair and replacement costs. It’s also important to remember that a lower quality product will not last as long as a premium quality product. This is why it’s important to keep the old adage “you get what you pay for” in mind when making your decision.
Installation
As the saying goes, “you get what you pay for.” Hinges are a case in point. High-quality hinges cost more than low-quality ones, but they last longer and perform better. They also are less likely to develop defects during the manufacturing process. They can withstand rigorous security testing and resist damage from repeated use.
When replacing existing hinges, make sure the new hinges are a match in size and edge shape. You should also measure the door and jamb to verify that there is enough clearance for a floor hinge. If not, you may need to round out the top of the door and jamb to achieve clearance.
Choose a manufacturer that offers detailed installation instructions on its website. These should include video and printable, easy-to-follow instructions. Ideally, these should be available in multiple languages, so installers can contact customer support if they have questions. This will help to ensure that the job is done correctly and quickly.
Steven Barron is an expert in many fields like tech, education, travel, finance, games, cars, and sports. He started his career in the tech industry, where he learned a lot and got good at spotting tech trends. Steven then moved into writing. He loves technology and is great at telling stories. His articles cover topics like new gadgets, education, and finance. They are full of detail but easy to read. Steven loves to travel and is a big sports fan. This shows in his travel and sports writing, where he draws in readers with clear descriptions and smart insights.
