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11 Door Hinge Types (Internal & External Doors)

11 Door Hinge Types (Internal & External Doors)

Door hinges are a fundamental component of any door, providing the pivotal connection between the door frame and the door leaf. They play a critical role in allowing doors to swing open and closed smoothly while providing stability and security. When it comes to door hinges, there is a wide variety of types available, each designed to suit specific applications and door types.

In this article, we will explore the different types of door hinges, focusing on both internal and external doors, their features, and the factors to consider when choosing the right hinge for your needs.

5 Types of Internal Door Hinges 

Below are the 5 most common internal door hinge types for your home.

  • Butterfly Door Hinge 

Butterfly Door Hinge

Butterfly door hinges, also known as parliament hinges, are designed to allow the door to swing open to a full 180-degree angle, enabling it to open flat against the wall. They are called "Butterfly hinges" because of their shape resembling a butterfly's wings. This feature is useful for internal doors in spaces with limited room or to create a seamless transition between rooms when fully opened.

  • Concealed Door Hinge 

Concealed hinges, as the name suggests, are hidden from view when the door is closed. They are installed within the door and the frame, creating a seamless and aesthetically pleasing appearance. These hinges are commonly used in modern interior design, particularly for kitchen cabinet doors and wardrobe doors.

  • Barrel Hinge 

Barrel hinges are cylindrical-shaped hinges that consist of two parts joined together with a central pin, allowing the door to pivot smoothly. These hinges are ideal for lightweight internal doors like closet doors or cabinet doors. Their compact design ensures minimal visibility, enhancing the door's aesthetics while providing a functional and durable solution for internal applications.

  • Piano Hinge 

Continuous hinges, often referred to as piano hinges, run the full length of the door and are commonly used on lightweight or thin doors. They offer excellent support along the entire length and ensure even weight distribution. Continuous hinges are popular in applications like cabinet doors, toolboxes, and piano lids. Their robust design and ability to distribute weight make them a reliable choice for doors that require added strength and stability.

  • Offset Hinge 

Offset hinges, also known as swing clear hinges, are designed to swing the door completely clear of the door frame when opened. They create a larger opening space, making it easier for people with mobility aids, like wheelchairs, to pass through. These offset hinges are commonly used for internal doors in spaces where accessibility and ease of passage are important considerations.

6 Types of External Door Hinges 

Below are the 6 most common external door hinge types for your home.

  • Butt Hinge 

Butt hinge

Butt hinges are one of the most common types of hinges that consist of two rectangular metal plates joined by a central pin, allowing the door to swing open and closed smoothly. These hinges are mortised into the door and frame, providing a clean and seamless appearance when the door is closed. They are available in various sizes and finishes, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.

  • Ball-Bearing Hinge 

Ball-Bearing Hinge
Ball bearing hinges are designed with ball bearings sandwiched between the knuckles of the hinge. They are ideal for heavy and frequently used doors, making them a popular choice for commercial settings like offices and public buildings. The ball-bearing mechanism also enhances the hinge's durability, making it suitable for external doors exposed to weather elements.

  • Pivot Hinge

Pivot hinges allow the door to pivot on a single point at the top and bottom of the door. This design eliminates the need for a traditional frame, creating a sleek and modern appearance. Pivot hinges are often used for external doors to provide a striking and contemporary entrance while offering structural stability and easy installation.

  • T Hinge 

T Hinge

T hinges, also known as tee hinges, have a distinctive T-shaped design that provide a strong and stable connection between the door and the frame. One side of the hinge is attached to the door while the other is fixed to the frame, ensuring durability and security. T hinges are ideal for external doors as they can support heavy doors and withstand outdoor conditions.

  • Flush Hinge 

Flush hinges are designed to be recessed into the door and frame, creating a flush and seamless appearance when the door is closed. These hinges are commonly used for external doors because they provide a secure and neat finish, making it difficult for intruders to tamper with the hinges from the outside. The flush design also reduces the risk of the door catching on clothing or other objects.

  • Strap Hinge 

Strap hinges are decorative hinges with long, narrow plates that extend over a significant portion of the door's surface. They are often used for traditional and rustic-style doors. These strap hinges are sturdy and ideal for heavy doors like barn doors or large gates. They can add a touch of character and charm to the overall look of the door and are available in various finishes, including wrought iron and antique brass.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Door Hinges

When choosing door hinges, several factors should be considered to ensure they function effectively and suit the specific door and its application. The main considerations include:

  • Weight and Size

The hinge must be able to support the weight and size of the door to prevent sagging or misalignment.

  • Material

Hinges come in various materials like steel, brass, or stainless steel. Choose the material that suits the door's aesthetics, environment, and corrosion resistance.

  • Type

There are various hinge types, such as butt hinges, continuous hinges, or concealed hinges. The type should match the door's design and functionality requirements.

  • Security

For exterior doors or doors requiring extra security, consider hinges with non-removable pins or security features.

  • Maintenance

Consider the ease of maintenance and lubrication to prolong the hinge's lifespan.

    By considering these factors, you can choose the right door hinges that offer durability, functionality, and aesthetics for your specific application.

    How to Measure Door Hinges 

    To measure door hinges correctly, follow these steps:

    1. Remove the existing hinge from the door and frame.
    2. Measure the height and width of the hinge plate (the part screwed onto the door) using a tape measure.
    3. Measure the diameter of the hinge pin (if applicable) to determine the hinge size.
    4. Measure the depth of the hinge cup (for concealed hinges) from the door's edge.
    5. Measure the screw hole spacing on the hinge plate.
    6. Note down these measurements to select the appropriate replacement hinge for your door.

    Conclusion

    Selecting the right type of door hinge is essential for ensuring the longevity, functionality, and security of your doors. Each type of hinge has its specific features and ideal applications. Whether you are installing internal doors within your home or external doors for a commercial building, understanding the different door hinge types will help you make an informed decision.

    The quality of doors also matters when purchasing hinges. Invest in high-quality doors and hinges for smooth accessibility and safety features. Check out Emerald Doors wide collection of doors and hinges for your home!

    FAQs on Door Hinge Types

    • What is the strongest door hinge? 

    The strongest door hinge is typically a heavy-duty, ball bearing hinge made of strong materials like stainless steel or reinforced steel. These hinges are designed to handle heavier doors and provide increased durability and weight-bearing capacity.

    • What type of hinges will not rust? 

    Stainless steel hinges are the best choice for hinges that will not rust. Stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for various environments, including areas with high humidity or exposure to moisture.

    • What is the thickness of door hinges? 

    The thickness of door hinges can vary depending on the type. Generally, standard butt hinges range from 2-3mm in thickness, whereas heavy-duty ball-bearing hinges are usually thicker and range from 4–12mm in thickness.  

    • What hinges to use for heavy doors? 

    For heavy doors, it is recommended to use heavy-duty hinges with ball bearing or concealed bearing mechanisms. These heavy duty hinges are typically made of robust materials like stainless steel and have a higher weight-bearing capacity, ensuring smooth operation and prolonged durability for heavy door applications.

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    ABOUT THE AUTHOR: SHABANA KAUSER

    Shabana Kauser is the dynamic owner of Emerald Doors, the famous door-selling company in the UK with immense knowledge and experience in working with architecture, interior design, and home decor. She continues to share tips and technical know-how of balancing interior elements, door fittings, room aesthetics, and the like. Personally, she loves coffee, always dabbling with several blends.

    Author: Shabana kauser

    Shabana Kauser, the Director of Emerald Doors, brings over 20 years of invaluable expertise in the door industry. Her visionary leadership has steered the company to new heights, offering an extensive range of internal and external doors while prioritizing quality and customer satisfaction. The website's glowing reviews stand as a testament to her commitment to excellence. To learn more about Emerald Doors, connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

    Posted on August 14, 2023
    SHABANA KAUSER
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