A hinge is a relatively simple bearing, usually involving two plates that meet at a fulcrum which allows a limited amount of rotation. Doors are the most common hinge application, but they are used in so many different situations that to make a comprehensive list would take too long. Additionally, a comprehensive list of the types of hinges would also be quite lengthy, but some types include:
-
European hinge: A type of hinge that is hidden on the inside of a cabinet.
-
Butt hinge: A very common hinge with two interconnecting sets of loops through which a pin is guided.
-
Strap hinge: A hinge with long plates that resemble a strap on either side.
-
Shutter hinge: A broad-plated hinge used mostly on shutter doors.
-
Piano hinge (also known as Continuous Hinges): The type of long interconnective-loop hinge seen on chests or piano tops.
-
Pivot hinge: A hinge made of a bar that acts as a pivot, primarily used for doors.
-
Gate hinge: Similar to a strap hinge, the gate hinge has long thin plates but connects into the gate.
And for each type there many variations, some which screw straight on, others which must be mortised, and then placement of inset, flush, and many other mounting manners. Because hinges are so widespread, they can be made out of a multitude of materials for different applications.
Different Environments, Different Materials
Door hinges need to withstand a lot of rough treatment, because people entering and exiting constantly will wear hinges down. As such, many hinges are made from stainless steel—they won’t rust or corrode, and have the strength of steel to bear heavy doors if necessary. The rust issue is important, because metal used near the ocean or salt lakes can suffer very quickly due to the salt content of the air, becoming unsightly and difficult to move. Stainless steel does not respond to any coating materials, however, and so finishes will not adhere to a stainless steel hinge. As a result, stainless steel is more common for hidden hinges, while brass, bronze, and brass- and bronze-plated hinges are more common for doors. Brass and bronze, both copper-based alloys, are very sturdy metals that can withstand less-than-ideal weather conditions like rain, salt air, smog, and can form thicker hinges than stainless steel. Brass requires extra treatment to withstand salt water, but bronze is incredibly weatherproof, and used frequently in marine applications. They also respond well to finishes, so they can be affixed with a broad array of colors to complement many different paint coats. These finishes include:
-
Copper: Copper makes up the base metal of solid bronze and brass alloys, or that used in bronze- and brass-plating.
-
Galvanized: This electrochemical finishing process coats steel to protect it from rust.
-
Japanned: This is a kind of lacquer from Italy, named after fashionable Asian embossments in the 17th century.
-
Blued: This is a finishing process involving the passive oxidization of steel, which gives the material a bluish hue.
Choosing the Right Material
Of course, weather resistance and visual appeal are not the only important factors—cost can also play a part in making a decision. Balancing needs due to environment and the desired aesthetics of a door application with cost can result in different types of materials being used. For instance, if weather is not a factor, plain steel with a coating can be used that will look nice and withstand strain, and be much cheaper than brass. But if weather is an issue for a heavy door, the extra expense of brass may lead to a different door material. Asking for assistance from a hinge manufacturer or even a local hardware supply store can help in making a final decision.
