How to Select a Furniture Hinge

How to Select a Furniture Hinge

Hinges are an integral part of many types of furniture, from cabinets to beds.furniture hinge They are often overlooked by homeowners until one breaks or a new cabinet is needed. When selecting a hinge, there are several factors to consider, including load, end play, aesthetics and environment. Ryan Hirst of Eurofit Direct takes a look at the different options available.

The main components of a hinge are the leaves, knuckles and pin.furniture hinge The leaf is the flat side of the hinge, which contacts the door or frame. The knuckle is the middle section of the hinge, and the pin is the small metal piece that joins them together. The type of material used to produce a hinge depends on its intended environment. Stainless steel is often the preferred choice for outdoor applications because of its durability and corrosion resistance. Plastic hinges are an option for indoor use, but they do not provide the same level of strength.

Most hinges are constructed using a combination of manufacturing processes like casting, extruding and milling.furniture hinge These techniques remove excess material to create the desired shape of the hinge and allow for more precise dimensions. Secondary operations like heat treatment, galvanizing, coating, painting and polishing are also performed to provide additional properties for the hinge.

There are several different types of concealed hinges available for your cabinetry, including European and concealed pin.furniture hinge These types of hinges are typically made from high-quality, durable materials and offer a sleek appearance to your cabinetry. Surface mount hinges are another option that is commonly used in contemporary cabinetry, as they are easy to install and provide a modern look.

Overlay hinges are used on face frame cabinets with either full or partial overlay doors.furniture hinge These hinges sit on top of the cabinet door and cover the face frame or cabinet edge, giving your cabinets a clean, finished look.

Strap hinges, which are a type of butt hinge with long leaves, are a popular choice for farmhouse-style cabinets. They are a more decorative hinge, which can make a statement in your kitchen and add rustic charm.

For more traditional styles, you can opt for a cabinet overlay hinge, which covers the entire face of the cabinet frame when closed. These are typically a bit heavier than other cabinet hinges, and they will add some extra thickness to your doors.

An offset hinge is a specialty hinge that can be helpful for spaces where the hinge must be installed at an angle. It enables you to widen the opening of the door up to two inches, which can be useful for rooms where space is limited. This type of hinge is also available in a range of finishes to complement any design style, from rustic to contemporary.

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