How to choose hinges for doors and windows: weight and type

Choose a hinge according to the weight and thickness of the leaf and how it needs to move: two or three hinges are usually fitted along the height, and the heavier the leaf, the more the size and strength of the hinge matter. For heavy doors and gates, choose bearing hinges with thick pins (in the collection the diameters go up to 20 mm); for light leaves, flat hinges are enough. The collection also includes adjustable, soft-close and self-closing hinges.

The types

• Flat and plain hinges: the most common, with flaps that are screwed on or welded. They suit light and medium-weight leaves.
• Strap hinges: for gates and large doors, such as the strap hinges art. 740.
• Adjustable hinges: allow the position of the leaf to be corrected after fitting, such as the adjustable strap hinge 742, and the version with neck art. 743.
• Bearing hinges: with 2 or 4 flaps and ball bearings, for heavy leaves and frequent use.
• Self-closing and soft-close hinges: close the leaf on their own and slow it down as it shuts, such as the soft-close hinge or the self-closing hinge.
• Double-action and multi-knuckle hinges: for leaves that open in both directions or with special movements.
• Piano hinges with holes: sold by the length and cut to size, for long leaves and lids.
• T-hinges and pintle hinges: pin-type hinges, typical of shutters and external leaves.

How to choose by job

The features to look at

• Material: steel, brass, iron, wrought iron, galvanised steel. Steel and iron for strength; brass for interiors and for appearance.
• Finish: galvanised, tropicalised, nickel-plated, polished, burnished, antique iron. It protects against rust and is part of the look.
• Dimensions (mm): height, flap width and thickness, for example 30 x 80 x 2 or 120 x 130. They must suit the weight of the leaf and the space on the frame.
• Pin length and diameter: lengths from about 60 to 200 mm and more, diameters from 6 to 20 mm for the sturdiest hinges.
• Pack: often in pairs, 2 pieces. What matters is the number of hinges you need per leaf.

Common mistakes

• Choosing undersized hinges. The leaf sags, drops and rubs against the frame.
• Fitting only two on a tall or heavy leaf. A third one spreads the weight better.
• Misaligned axes. If the pins are not on the same line, the leaf jams.
• The wrong finish for the environment. Unprotected iron outdoors soon rusts.
• Not lubricating the pin. Over time it squeaks and wears out.

Frequently asked questions

How many hinges does a door need?

Usually two or three along the height. For heavy or tall leaves, three is better.

Flat hinge or strap hinge?

Flat for doors and leaves, strap for gates and large doors where more strength is needed.

What are adjustable hinges for?

To correct the position of the leaf after fitting, without drilling new holes.

Galvanised or brass?

Galvanised for outdoors and heavy use, brass for interiors and quality finishes.

You will find all the models in the Door and Window Hinges collection: to choose the type and size, ask for a quote or advice from the AMES technicians.