Hinges are objects that are used to attach a gate or door to its frame. It helps in opening and closing the gate. Different hinges have different functions. In this article, we provide detailed information about the various types of hinges. And help you in selecting the right one that you need.
Different Types Of Gate Hinges
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1. Bi-Fold Hinges
Bi-fold hinges can open in both directions. They can be operational in both push and pull conditions. This solves the problem of the gate opening in only one direction.
You may be wondering how Bi-fold hinges work. All the Bi-fold hinges have three leaves, unlike the standard ones that operate only on one leaf.
This allows bi-fold hinges to open in both directions. Two leaves are installed on the surface. The third one helps in the multi-directional movement of the door. There are various benefits of bi-fold hinges over regular ones as they can open in two directions.
If you are looking to install one in humid conditions. You should consider the hinge that is made of stainless steel, to prevent rusting.
2. Butt Hinges
Butt hinges have two leaves and are usually six inches or shorter. They can be used for various functions. Out of the two leaves, one is attached to the fixed surface and the other to the moving surface.
This allows movement. Butt hinges are most commonly used for cabinets, doors, took, etc.They are made of various materials like stainless steel, galvanized steel, and aluminum.
Butt hinges are constructed to withstand heavy weights and they do not easily break. Some are designed in such a way that they close automatically. They are really useful.
3. Case Hinges
Case hinges have similar functions to butt hinges but are fancier. They are used for decorative purposes in suitcases and briefcases.
They can be custom-made according to different designs. They look good and are decorative. It can be made to suit various designs and styles.
4. Continuous Hinges
Continuous hinges cover the entire length of the door. They are much stronger than butt hinges and are used for doors that are used frequently.
They last much longer. The weight of the door is continuously distributed throughout the hinge. They can be installed indoors that are frequently used like entrances of shops and stores.
They can also be used for doors that are heavier because they can easily withstand the weight of the door.
Aluminum geared continuous hinges, Pin and Barrel continuous hinges are the two types of continuous hinges. The length of the continuous hinge is usually one inch less than the length of the door.
5. Custom Hinges
Custom hinges can be made according to one’s choice. They contain better material and can last longer than regular hinges.
You can tell the manufacturer about the material that you want to use to make the hinge. This will help in making a hinge that is long-lasting and works better.
You can make the design according to your preference. This will help in getting a hinge that is perfect for the specific purpose it is designed for. A custom hinge is be made of better quality materials than the regular ones.
They are also tested for strength and durability. This can help in installing a hinge that is perfect according to one’s choice and preferences.
6. Strap Hinges
Strap Hinges are generally slim and longer than normal hinges. They are early-designed hinges. They are used for commercial purposes and can also be used for domestic purposes. Kitchen cabinets usually contain strap hinges.
They are also used in making doors. The slim and long design helps in connecting two surfaces strongly. They don’t use much space because of the slim and long design.
They are also made of various types of materials. Steel hinges are durable and last longer. While aluminum hinges are lighter and the chances of corrosion are less in such hinges. Some hinges are even coated with zinc to protect them against corrosion and rusting.
While choosing a strap hinge it is important to keep in mind the shape and size of the hinge. It should fit in the material in which you want to use it. It should not be too small or too big to provide maximum benefits.
7. Overlay Hinges
Some hinges increase the width of the cabinet. If you want to prevent that overlay hinges can be used. They fold themselves and do not use unnecessary space.
These types of hinges are perfect for installation in kitchen cabinets. They are made of different materials and you can choose the one that suits your needs.
8. Ball Bearing Hinges
Ball-bearing hinges have knuckles that differ in number. Ball bearings are present between the knuckles. Ball-bearing hinges have two bearings between knuckles if it is a five-knuckle hinge. But the heavy-duty hinges have ball-bearing between each knuckle.
They are usually installed indoors that are used frequently. They don’t produce much noise and function properly. They are functional even after frequent use due to the ball-bearing.
9. Concealed Hinges
Concealed hinges are mainly used for aesthetic purposes. They do not create a hindrance to the looks of the cabinet. They are hidden.
There are other uses of concealed hinges. Apart from providing aesthetics. They are easily adjustable. You can also easily remove the cabinet doors.
Full overlay, half overlay, and inset hinges are the three types of concealed hinges. Full overlay hinge provides better security and can be cleaned easily. It also provides a self-closing door and is aesthetically pleasing.
10. Knife Hinges
A knife hinge is made out of two parts. These parts are called leaves. The visual representation of a knife hinge can be described as a scissor. It is not noticeable when installed. It is mostly used in cabinets.
It allows doors to open fully. Straight and offset are two different knife hinges. They are best suited to installation on cabinets. They are concealed. And also help in properly opening and closing cabinets without any problems.
How To Select Best Hinges?
There are various things you should keep in mind while buying a hinge. The most important things to keep in mind while selecting hinges are:
Material
The type of material you use for making your hinges is very important. Depending on the place you are installing the hinge. Different types of hinges should be used.
If you live in a humid area there is more chance of rusting and corrosion. You should choose a hinge made out of stainless steel so that it is protected against rust.
If you want a hinge for a heavy door that is used frequently. You should use a material like a cast iron. Cast iron is more durable and can withstand harsh conditions.
Bronze, stainless steel, cast iron, copper, and brass are the most common materials. These are used for the construction of door hinges.
1. Design
The design of the hinge also plays a major role. While durability is the most important factor. It is also important for the hinge to be aesthetically pleasing. Different designs of hinges are there.
You can choose one that suits you the best. And provides the best look to the material in which you are installing it. Brushed nickel and antique brass are a few materials that are used for giving a better design to the hinge.
2. Width And Weight
Width and weight are the most common factors responsible for the determination of a hinge. If you are using a heavy door continuous hinge should be used for durability.
A door that is used frequently should be fitted with a ball-bearing hinge. As it prevents the door from wear and tear and creating unnecessary noise.
3. Height
The height of the door is also important when using a hinge. Mostly regular doors that are 60 inches in length require three hinges but more can be used. If the door is taller than that more hinges are used.
You can also modify the number of hinges according to your own choice. But the minimum number of hinges should be used for the proper opening and closing of the door.
What Are Heavy-Duty Gate Hinges?
Heavy Duty gate hinges are used for heavy doors. These doors are usually heavier and made of a thicker material like heavy steel. These are mostly used in factories and industries. These gates require durable and strong hinges.
So that the hinges can support the weight of such heavy doors. These hinges are called heavy-duty gate hinges.
They are also made of heavier materials like heavy steel and stainless steel. They provide smooth functioning to heavy doors.
Piano hinges, T, ball-bearing butt, weld-on, spring, strap. These are some commonly used heavy-duty hinges. They usually cost more than the standard ones because of the heavy material used for making them.
They are designed for strength, durability, and years of maintenance-free service. They are used in heavy industries. They usually are protected against wear and tear. Because of the good quality of material that is used for making them.
Heavy-duty gate hinges are the most durable and long-lasting. They are made in such a way that they don’t require much maintenance.
Because of the size of the doors, they are used in. It is very difficult to regularly maintain the hinges. So they should be durable to ensure the proper functioning of the doors. Put a good heavy-duty smart lock on your heavy gates along with the heavy-duty hinges to maximize the security.
Offset Hinges
Offset hinges are made in such a way that they allow the doors to open to their full length. This saves you from installing a new wider door if you want more space.
They are cost-effective and can be used on the existing holes and screws used for previous hinges. The pivot point of the door is pushed away from the hinge. Hence it allows more space for the door to open.
It also acts as a counterbalance for the shutter doors to open and close. They can also be used on windows.
They provide more space for windows to open. Offset hinges work perfectly if you want more clearance space for your doors and windows.
As your door is working fine now you should get a good gate lock under your budget.
Final Talk
It is really important to choose a proper hinge. This helps in the proper functioning of your doors. You can choose the hinge according to its use. And take information from the above-mentioned article about the hinges. With the use of a proper hinge, you can easily open and close doors. So it is necessary to choose the hinge carefully.
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