Fixing cupboards or doors would not be possible without the use of hinges. However, with the wide range of models offered on the market, it is difficult to navigate. A brief overview of the different types of hinges is therefore essential.
What is a hinge?
In its simplest definition, a hinge is a mechanism element consisting of two articulated blades ensuring the opening of a door, a cupboard or other openings. It is available in many types and especially in different materials: nickel-plated steel, metal, brass or stainless steel and is therefore mainly used in carpentry or cabinetmaking on elements requiring the articulation of leaves. In principle, a hinge is made up of three parts, namely the hinge which plays the role of pivot axis, the hinge which is the immobile element of the hinge and finally the leaf which will serve as a support for the mobile part.
Do-it-yourselfers will certainly find it difficult to differentiate the hinge from a hinge. These two objects actually play the same role except that the hinge is removable. It is possible to divide the two hinges (hinge and leaf). In principle, the hinge is used for heavy carpentry work on windows or doors.
What are the different types of hinges?
Hinges come in many types. Among the most widely used is the concealed hinge. Used very frequently in the kitchen, the invisible hinge can only be seen when the door is closed. It is fixed in the edge of the door. This type of hinge is held in place by bases. Placed on the piece of furniture, these will fit together with the hinge by means of clipping or screwing. For the system to work during installation, compatibility between bases and hinges is required. Likewise, the dimensions must be identical.
On the openings of trunks or chests, we find the piano hinges which have a thin, rectangular and long section.
The lighter hinge is usually made of brass and is characterized by its finesse. It is often found on old cabinet doors.
The knot hinge looks like a hinge. It can be unhinged and is found in the form of two or three knots.
The double rebate hinge is equipped with two thin iron layers. As it is rather fragile, it can only be used on light supports.
On cabinets with drawers, use offset pin hinges is interesting because they offer opening angles of 180°.
If you want the opening of a door to remain open, you can use the friction hinge. No need to install other accessories.
A remote opening for its part will be possible with a angled hinge.
The American hinge as for it is more classic but requires a milling or drilling operation during installation.
On iron supports, it is preferable to use welding hinges.
How to choose a door hinge?
In order not to get lost in the hardware department looking for the right hinge, a few selection criteria should be considered.
The first criterion is based on the support which guarantees good stability of the hinge. In the case of a metal support, the use of weld-on hinges will be recommended. On concrete or wood, a screw-on hinge will do.
Second criterion: the place of fixation. If it is a question of an exterior door, in this case a stainless steel model will be required. Indoors, a versatile hinge will suffice.
Finally, it is also very important to know the weight of the piece to be hinged because it will depend on the type of hinge to choose. Double rebated or brass hinges, for example, are not recommended on door leaves.
As soon as you wish to articulate a leaf on a frame, the use of a hinge to ensure a connection on the pivot will be essential. As there are several models, choosing the right type of hinge will guarantee the security and stability of the door or cupboard.