What is a door hinge?
A door hinge is a mechanical device that connects a door to its frame, allowing it to pivot open and close. It consists of two interconnecting pieces, with one attached to the door and the other to the door frame. Not all door hinges are the same – they come in various sizes and materials, each designed for different door types and environments.
Choosing the right door hinge type
When choosing the right type of door hinge, it’s important to remember that different hinges are designed for specific applications. Selecting the correct type will ensure the smooth operation of your door. Some offer additional features, such as fire resistance and extra strength for heavier doors.
Door weight
Consider the weight of the door when deciding upon the right hinge type. Heavier doors require more robust hinges for proper function, whereas lighter doors can operate effectively with less heavy-duty hinges.
Door location
The location of the door can play an important role in selecting the right hinge. External doors will be exposed to weather conditions and require more corrosion-resistant hinges compared to internal doors. There is a wide range of hinges to choose from if your door is internal, and this decision should be made with your aesthetic preference and functional needs in mind.
Door usage
How often a door is used can impact the type of hinge required. High-traffic doors in commercial and public spaces need a more durable hinge to withstand constant use. In comparison, low-traffic doors may only need a standard or lightweight option.
Fire safety requirements
Fire-rated doors have different requirements in comparison to other door types. They will need specific hinges to ensure the door meets fire safety standards and can be used effectively in emergencies. It is a legal requirement to ensure compliance with any building codes. If you’re unsure about the actions you need to take to do so, you can read our 2025 fire door safety regulations to familiarise yourself.
Door hinge features
Selecting the right door hinge involves more than just choosing a specific type, and there are many factors to consider. Hinge features, such as material, size, grading, and fire safety, should all be taken into account to ensure the hinge meets your specific needs.
Material
Door hinges are made from a variety of materials, ranging in levels of strength and corrosion resistance. The key materials used include stainless steel, brass, steel, and aluminium. These are ideal for various environments, from exterior to interior settings.
Finish
There are a variety of hinge finishes available, including chrome, brass, black, and nickel, allowing you to match your door hardware. Some finishes also help protect the hinge from wear and rust.
Size
The size of the hinge you’ll need will depend on the width of the door or gate. Doors that are heavier and wider will need more heavy-duty hinges for proper functionality and safety, whereas smaller doors can typically be supported by lighter, more compact hinges.
Fire-rated
Fire-rated hinges are essential on fire doors to ensure compliance with safety standards such as BS EN 1935. All fire doors must have at least 3 fire door hinges, all of which must be CE marked.
Stampings and marking
Hinges have numerous markings and stamps on them to show they follow the market standards and product regulations in the UK. These include a grade, fire certification, a UKCA stamp and a CE stamp. The hinge grade indicates key properties, including the maximum weight the hinge can handle.
Types of door hinges
There are various types of door hinges to choose from, and the best option for your specific door depends on several factors. The door's weight, location, frequency of use, and amount of traffic all help determine which hinge will be the most suitable.
Butt hinges
A butt hinge is the most common hinge type, used on both interior and exterior doors with moderate to high traffic levels. They consist of two rectangular leaves joined by a central pin, and are best suited for homes, offices, and commercial spaces. Their design, joining two surfaces edge-to-edge, allows the door to pivot smoothly.
Concealed hinges
Concealed hinges (also known as European hinges) are designed to be hidden when the door is closed for a sleek and aesthetically pleasing look. They are used on furniture and interior doors in low-traffic areas, where visual appeal is prioritised over heavy-duty performance.
Flush hinges
Flush hinges are designed to sit level with the door and frame, providing a clean and subtle look. They are ideal for lightweight doors in residential and low-traffic environments due to their simple design and ease of installation.
Flag hinges
Flag hinges consist of two parts, one on the door frame and the other on the door, creating a “flag” shape. These hinges are common on heavier doors and gates in residential and commercial areas, where a wide range of motion is required. They are also used for uPVC doors, where glass door patch fittings can be used along a flag hinge for a sleek and secure finish.
Rising hinges
Rising hinges are designed to lift the door slightly as it opens, preventing it from scraping the floor. They are typically used on external doors, where the door may need to clear uneven surfaces. These hinges are often used in high-traffic areas, such as industrial buildings, providing smooth operation over obstacles.
Tee hinges
A tee hinge is used on larger and heavier doors, featuring a “T” shape, with one long arm mounted on the door and the other on the frame. This hinge type provides additional strength and support for external doors, handling harsh weather conditions due to its robust construction.
Parliament hinges
Parliament hinges are designed to allow doors to open at a wider angle, often up to 180 degrees, providing extra door clearance. They are used on double or larger doors, such as entryways to commercial spaces, homes, or any doors that need to be fully open for easier access.
Continuous hinges
A continuous hinge (also known as a piano hinge) is used on heavy-duty doors in high-traffic areas, such as schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings. Continuous hinges are long and narrow, running the full length of the door, distributing weight evenly and providing support along the entire vertical edge.
Special purpose hinges
Special purpose hinges are designed for specific applications, including folding doors, fire-rated doors, or doors in high-security areas. Addressing unique challenges, such as heavy loads, special door functions, and security needs, these hinges are durable and precision-engineered, making them a great choice when standard options don’t meet specific requirements.
Sprung hinges
Sprung hinges are equipped with an internal spring mechanism that automatically returns the door to a closed position after it has been opened. Ideal for environments where doors need to remain closed automatically, this hinge type is a reliable and efficient choice.
Fire door hinges
Fire door hinges are specially designed to be used on fire-rated doors, helping to maintain the door’s function during a fire. These hinges must meet specific standards, including being resistant to high temperatures.
Cabinet hinges
A cabinet hinge is specifically designed for use on furniture doors, such as cabinets and wardrobes, allowing the door to open and close smoothly. Ideal for use in home kitchens, bathrooms, and offices, these hinges offer a sturdy and reliable addition to various door sizes and designs.
Discover door hinges at IronmongeryDirect
This guide has discussed the various types of door hinges available, as well as what doors they’re commonly used for, and which option is best suited for you. Ensure your door operates smoothly with our wide range of door hinges and hinge accessories from IronmongeryDirect.
FAQs
How many hinges should be used per door?
Standard interior doors require two hinges, but heavier or taller doors, such as external options, may need more for added support. It’s important to use the right number of hinges and ensure proper placement so the door remains stable and operates smoothly.
How are hinges measured?
Hinges are measured by their height and width when fully open and laid flat. Taking accurate measurements of both dimensions helps to ensure the hinge fits the door and frame correctly.
How do I know what kind of hinge I need?
The hinge you need depends on the type of door, its weight, and how it needs to open. Consider the material, function, and location of your door to choose the right hinge. Butt hinges, for example, can be used for internal doors, whereas parliament hinges are more suited to wider openings.
What is the most common hinge?
The most common hinge type are butt hinges, which are used for residential doors. This is due to their simple design, strength, ease of installation, and suitability for most interior and exterior doors.
Which way do hinges go on a door?
Hinges are typically installed so the hinge knuckle (the rounded part) faces outward when the door is closed. They are mounted on the inside for inward-opening doors, and on the outside for outward-opening doors. Proper hinge placement and installation are essential for the smooth operation of your door.