25 Types of Door Hinges and Their Best Uses

Door hinges may seem like a small detail, but they play a big role in both the function et style of your doors. Whether it’s a front entryway, kitchen cabinet, or hidden passage, the right hinge makes all the difference. A quality hinge ensures fonctionnement fluide, boosts door durability, and even enhances esthétique—especially when it’s matched with the right material and finish.

Depuis portes intérieures et extérieures à furniture, gates, et specialized enclosures, there’s a surprising variety of hinge types to choose from. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common—and not-so-common—types de charnières de porte, helping you find the perfect match for your next project.

Key Factors to Consider Before Choosing Hinges

Before picking a hinge, think about your door’s weight and size—heavier doors need sturdier hinges.

Consider the frequency of use and whether it’s for indoor or outdoor use, which affects material choice. Decide on the swing direction (one-way or two-way), and whether you need added sécurité ou un concealed look.

Lastly, match the hinge’s style and finish to your overall design for a polished final touch. A little planning upfront leads to better function and longer-lasting results.

Common Types of Door Hinges

Choosing the right door hinge isn’t just about function—it’s also about style, durability, and ease of use.

Here’s a handy breakdown of the most common types to help you find the best fit for your project.

1. Butt Hinge

Purpose: The standard hinge for most doors
Use cases: Interior and exterior wooden doors
Avantages : Easy to install, affordable, available in various finishes
Limitations: Requires mortising; not ideal for heavy doors without bearings

2. Ball Bearing Hinge

Purpose: Smooth operation with less wear over time
Use cases: Heavy entry doors, high-traffic areas
Avantages : Quiet, long-lasting, reduces friction
Limitations: Slightly more expensive than plain hinges

3. Spring Hinge

Purpose: Automatically closes doors
Use cases: Garage entry, screen doors, commercial spaces
Avantages : Self-closing feature, good for safety
Limitations: May require tension adjustment

4. Rising Butt Hinge

Purpose: Lifts door as it opens to clear carpets
Use cases: Doors over thick flooring or uneven thresholds
Avantages : Functional for carpeted spaces
Limitations: More complex to install

5. Concealed Hinge

Purpose: Provides a clean, seamless look
Use cases: Cabinets, modern interiors, minimalist design
Avantages : Invisible when closed, sleek
Limitations: Not suitable for heavy doors

6. Lift-Off Hinge

Purpose: Quick door removal without tools
Use cases: Maintenance zones, event halls, hospitals
Avantages : Easy access and removal
Limitations: Not ideal for secure applications

7. Piano (Continuous) Hinge

Purpose: Supports weight along full door edge
Use cases: Cabinets, storage boxes, heavy panels
Avantages : Distributes weight evenly, durable
Limitations: Requires full-length installation

8. Pivot Hinge

Purpose: Top and bottom rotation, rather than side
Use cases: Entryways, room dividers
Avantages : Sleek and modern
Limitations: Needs structural support

9. Double-Action Hinge

Purpose: Swings door both ways and returns to center
Use cases: Kitchens, cafes, restaurant doors
Avantages : Convenient for high-traffic areas
Limitations: Limited privacy, no sealing

10. Strap Hinge

Purpose: Combines strength with rustic appeal
Use cases: Barn doors, gates, decorative use
Avantages : Strong support, vintage look
Limitations: Bulky; not for tight spaces

11. T-Hinge

Purpose: Mix of butt and strap hinges
Use cases: Sheds, gates, utility doors
Avantages : Decorative and functional
Limitations: Visible hardware

12. Overlay Hinge

Purpose: Lets cabinet door lay flush over frame
Use cases: Kitchen and bathroom cabinets
Avantages : Clean, flat finish
Limitations: Only works with overlay-style doors

13. Offset (Swing Clear) Hinge

Purpose: Moves door fully out of frame opening
Use cases: Wheelchair access, moving large items
Avantages : Maximizes opening space
Limitations: Adds width to installation

14. Barrel Hinge

Purpose: Small, hidden hinge
Use cases: Jewelry boxes, cabinets
Avantages : Neat finish, low-profile
Limitations: Not suitable for heavy doors

15. Security Hinge

Purpose: Prevents removal or tampering
Use cases: Exterior doors, commercial entries
Avantages : High-security design
Limitations: May cost more

16. Gate Hinges (Tee, Strap, Hook & Band)

Purpose: Handle weight and outdoor elements
Use cases: Garden gates, barn doors, fences
Avantages : Durable, weather-resistant
Limitations: Typically larger, more visible

17. Cabinet Hinges (Overlay, Inset, Euro)

Purpose: Designed for furniture and cabinetry
Use cases: Kitchens, wardrobes, vanities
Avantages : Soft-close options, easy to install
Limitations: Not load-bearing

18. H/HL Hinges

Purpose: Traditional cottage-style support
Use cases: Period homes, ledge and brace doors
Avantages : Decorative and structural
Limitations: Bulky; suited to specific aesthetics

19. Cranked Hinge

Purpose: Adds clearance for door or window to bypass trim
Use cases: Awkward openings, fenêtres
Avantages : Solves clearance issues
Limitations: Limited styles

20. Flush Hinge (Hurlinge)

Purpose: No need to cut a mortise
Use cases: DIY doors, lightweight applications
Avantages : Easy to install
Limitations: Lower weight capacity

21. Backflap Hinge

Purpose: Fully open box flaps or lids
Use cases: Foldable tables, desks
Avantages : Allows 180° opening
Limitations: Limited decorative value

22. Counterflap Hinge

Purpose: Opens horizontally for counters
Use cases: Cafes, bars, reception desks
Avantages : Clean horizontal movement
Limitations: Niche use

23. Weldable Hinges

Purpose: Permanent, high-strength application
Use cases: Metal gates, vehicles, containers
Avantages : Secure and long-lasting
Limitations: Requires welding tools

24. Specialist Hinges

Purpose: Tailored to very specific needs
Use cases: Hospitals, fire-rated doors, tech cabinets
Avantages : Meets compliance or specialty use
Limitations: Higher cost, niche availability

25. Decorative Hinges

Purpose: Style-forward hardware
Use cases: Vintage furniture, themed interiors
Avantages : Adds charm and visual appeal
Limitations: Usually more decorative than functional

Types of Materials and Finishes

Choosing the right hinge material ensures both durabilité et style. Here’s a quick guide:

• Stainless steel: Ideal for outdoor ou humide environments; resists rust.

• Brass: Attractive and strong; great for decorative interior doors.

• Zinc alloy: Budget-friendly and works well for light-duty indoor use.

• Aluminium: Lightweight and naturally résistant à la corrosion.

• Bronze, pewter, wrought iron: Suited for vintage or traditional decor.

• Nylon/ABS plastic: Best for armoires or low-stress applications like panels.

FAQ

1. Which hinge is best for heavy doors?

Ball bearing ou continuous (piano) hinges are great for supporting the weight of heavy or frequently used doors.

2. Can I replace a hinge without changing the door?

Yes! As long as you match the hinge size, hole pattern, et swing direction, replacements are straightforward.

3. What’s the difference between butt and concealed hinges?

Butt hinges are visible when closed; concealed hinges are hidden, ideal for modern or cabinet doors.