Happening Hinges How to choose the right hinge for your project
The range of hinges found at a local hardware store can be dizzying. How do you know which hinge is right for your project?
First, you may be able to refine your choice based on some important factors. Depending on the size, weight and shape of your work materials, should the hinge be small and delicate or heavy and durable?
Another factor to consider is that even though most hinges are reversible (each end can be mounted upright); some are made for a right or left door. An example of this is the pin hinge. With this hinge, common to the hanging doors, the pin must be removed from above; therefore, you can not reverse a loose pin hinge.
You can find out if you need a hinge to the right or left while standing outside the door. If the door opens from you to your right, you need straight hinges. If it opens on your side to your left, you must stock up on left hinges.
Also think about the amount of hinge you would like to show when the door is closed. If the hinge is visible, should it be decorative in nature or can it be simple and functional? If you prefer most hinges to be hidden, will this affect functionality and ease of use?
Below you will find an alphabetical list of the most popular hinges and their common uses. If you have questions, talk to a seller when you buy the hinges. And good luck!
A version of the hinge butt, the hinge with flap back is smaller and mainly used for furniture.
The main advantage of a ball bearing hinge is its permanent lubrication status. They are a more expensive hinge and are generally used for heavy-duty door assemblies, such as doors leading to the exterior of a building. They can also be useful for all doors that see excessive use.
Butt hinges generally measure between 13 and 150 mm. They come in two types of rigid pin (the pin can not be removed) and the loose pin (the pin can easily be tapped with a screwdriver). They are used to mount normal doors and cabinet doors. The butt hinge is designed to be used on doors resting on a long pile carpet.
The advantages of the butterfly hinge, used on light doors, are the variety of shapes and designs available and their ease of adjustment.
The double-acting hinge opens in both directions and is mainly used for folding doors.
The flush hinge is not as strong as the butt hinge; it is mainly used as cabinet hinge. The flush hinge is recommended for use on light doors and in situations in which you would prefer to conceal the entire hinge with the exception of the barrel.
Joint hinges are loose joint hinges of a decorative nature. Although they can support a large weight, their design ensures that a closed door shows only the knuckle of the hinge. Hinge hinges are recommended for door fasteners.
Blind hinges are designed to allow full, swivel opening such as is commonly found on mosquito nets or storm doors.
Parliament hinges are recommended when the hinge pin must protrude from the door face.
The pivot hinge is versatile, used for recessed doors, overlay doors or flush doors. The advantage of the pivot hinge is that it does not need a door frame for mounting.
As its name suggests, the spring hinge contains a spring mechanism that automatically closes the door. Models with adjustable voltage characteristics are available.
Table hinges are recommended in situations where it is necessary to drop a sheet into a section of wood.
Concealed hinges are generally available in sizes 25 mm and 36 mm. The benefits of the concealed hinge include the fact that they are adjustable once installed. It has been designed for use with particle board and MDF.
