Door hinges are vital hardware for any interior or exterior door. These allow doors to smoothly close and open, thus are a highly important part of any residential or commercial building. If you are unsure of what type of hinge to purchase, we’ve put together a list of what you’ll have to consider when choosing the right door hinges.
Related post: Types of hinges.
1. Strength
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a hinge is their strength. After all, if you choose a lightweight hinge for a heavy-duty door, the hinge will most likely not withstand the weight of the door and it will break. Every hinge has a maximum load capacity which will determine the maximum load that the hinge will resist. To find out the load capacity of your required hinge, measure the size and weight of the door, alongside with any door ironmongery (e.g. door handles, door knockers).
2. Size.
Size is also important. Consider the hinge’s height, width and knuckle length. Measure the thickness of the door to easily determine the size of the hinge you’ll require.
3. Specifications
Do you have special requirements for your hinges? For instance, if the door requires to be easily removed, lift-off hinges are the ideal solution. These allow the door to be removed and put back without having to remove the hinges, being perfect for emergency situations.
You might require door hinges for French doors, which open flat to the wall. For this type of door, you’ll require parliament hinges. These will allow you to fully open your French doors.
Additionally, if you require hinges for fire-rated doors, you’ll have to choose specific hinges which are designed and suitable to withstand fire for a certain amount of time. One of our most popular hinges for fire rated doors is our grade 13 matte black ball bearing hinges.
If you don’t have extra specifications for your hinges and simply are looking for standard interior door hinges, we would recommend butt hinges and ball bearing hinges, including our standard matte black ball bearing hinges.
You’ll have to consider the end use of the hinge. For example, if the hinge will be installed indoors or outdoors. In case you require door hinges for exterior doors, we would recommend stainless steel door hinges which are resistant to corrosion.
5. Aesthetics
When it comes to aesthetics, consider concealed or externally mounted hinges. In case you require a clean and unobtrusive hinge, concealed hinges are the perfect option. Our best selling concealed hinges include stainless steel concealed hinges and matte black concealed hinges.
Alternatively, externally mounted door hinges will be visible on your door. These come in various designs and finishes to match the rest of your door ironmongery.
6. Installation
The last thing to consider is the installation of the hinge and how the hinge will be positioned on the door. Concealed hinges will have to be fitted into the door whilst externally mounted hinges will be fitted onto the door and door frame.
Related post: How to fit door hinges
If you need further assistance to choose the perfect door hinge for your doors, don’t hesitate to contact our team via email at info@ironmongeryexperts.co.uk or by calling us on 01376 557 561. We are happy to help!
