The wide array of hinges found in a hardware or online stores can be quite overwhelming. But it can be such a simple choice if you learn a little about hinges before you go shopping for them. So, how do you know which type of hinge is the correct one to do the job?

Find out below:

First, you can narrow down the choices by some key factors. Based on the size, weight, and shape of your work materials, does the hinge need to be small and subtle or heavy and sturdy?

Another vital aspect to consider is that, while many hinges are reversible, others are built for either a right or left hand door. An example of this is the loose-pin hinge. Common for hanging doors, this pin should be removed from the top; hence, you simply cannot reverse a loose-pin hinge.

You can identify if you require a right or left hinge by standing on the outside of the door. If the door opens from you toward your right hand side, then you need right hand hinges, too. If it opens from you toward your left hand side, you need to pile up on some left hand hinges.

Moreover, consider how much of the hinge you would like to be showing when the door is closed. If the hinge is visible, should it be ornamental in nature or can it be plain and functional in design? If you like most of the hinges to be hidden, will this affect the functionality and ease of use in any way?

For your guidance, below are some of the most popular hinges and their common uses:

Butt hinge – Usually measures between 25-150 mm in size, butt hinges are the most type of hinge used for mounting doors. Butt hinges come in many different materials and finishes depending upon their application.

Ball bearing hinge – The prime advantage of this hinge is that it’s permanently lubricated, which also makes it more expensive than other hinges. Ball bearing hinges are normally used for heavy-duty door mountings, such as doors opening to a building’s exterior. Also utilized for doors that are used a lot.

Butterfly hinge – Typically used on lightweight doors, butterfly hinges are available in an array of shapes and patterns. Most butterfly hinges are easy to fit as well.

Double acting hinge – This type of hinge opens in any direction and mainly used for folding doors.

Flush hinge – Not as robust as butt hinges, flush hinges are used mostly for cabinets and lightweight doors. This is ideal if you wish to conceal the entire hinge except the barrel.

Pivot hinge – Flexible and excellent for recessed, overlay of flush doors, pivot hinge’s advantage is that it does not need a doorframe for mounting.

Spring loaded hinge – As the name signifies, spring loaded hinge has a spring-loaded system that automatically closes the door. Varieties with adjustable tension features are also available.

Table top hinge – This is utilized for drop tables to split pieces where one must drop away from the other piece.

Concealed hinge – Usually available in 25-36 mm, concealed hinges are easily adjustable once fitted and is designed for chipboard and MDF use.

Tee Hinges – These are very common hinges used for outside applications. They come in many different sizes and weights. Main uses are on gates, sheds, animal housings plus many other applications.

Continuous Hinges or Piano Hinges - The continuous hinge is utilized primarily on chest lids, cabinets or where a long hinge is required. Also known as a piano hinge, the continuous hinge is available in brass, stainless steel or normal mild steel and are available in several sizes.

Other hinges – These include: strap hinges, chest hinges, and weld on hinges plus many other. Strap hinges come in many sizes and are suggested for heavy installation conditions.

After pondering on these tips and guidelines above, you should be ready to shop for the appropriate hinge type perfectly suited to your door.