Hinges
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Free Swinging Hinges
- Simple free swinging hinges
- Wide range of materials and styles
- Surface mount, and flush hinge options
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Removable Hinges
- Detachable hinges and lift-off hinges to remove the door for unhindered access
- Concealed mount hardware
- Surface mount and concealed hinge versions available
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Concealed Hinges
- Hidden hinges make them invisible in the application
- Door holding features
- Concealed hinges provide clean exteriors and enhance vandal resistance
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Detent Hinges
- Hold the door or lid in a defined position
- Simple surface mount
- Maintains consistent performance over a long cycle life
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Torque Hinges
- Friction hinges to hold the door or lid in all positions
- Surface mount, concealed and flush mount options to suit any application
- Maintains consistent smooth feel and constant torque over a long cycle life
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Counterbalance Hinges
- Position and lift heavy lids
- Make a heavy lid feel weightless
- A reliable alternative to gas struts with enhanced ergonomics
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
What are the different types of hinges?
Hinges come in a variety of designs, each suited for specific applications and load requirements. Understanding the different types of hinges is crucial for selecting the right hardware for your project. Here’s a breakdown of common hinge types and some of their uses:
- Free-Swinging Hinges – Standard doors and panels.
- Positioning Hinges – Tray tables and movable headrests.
- Embedded Hinges – Tabletop compartments with flush surfaces.
- Removable Hinges – Large doors in tight spaces.
- Counterbalance Hinges – Heavy panels that are hand-operated.
- Concealed Hinges – Stylized and tamper-resistant panels.
Selection depends on door weight, size, and use.
What are the best hinges for different doors?
There is no single "best" hinge, but there is a best choice for your panel. Here's a simple guide for a few possible panel types:
- Regular Inside Doors: Free swinging hinges are perfect for most inside doors. They have no special mounting requirements and mounting them externally maximizes interior space.
- Heavy, Outside Doors: Counterbalance hinges help take the weight off heavier doors and sealed hinges resist damage from the elements when used outdoors.
- Doors with Hidden Hardware: Concealed hinges stay out of sight and give your door a clean, modern look.
- Doors Used A LOT: For this, the material matters more than the shape of the hinge. You'll want a strong material like stainless steel to maximize the lifespan of your door.
- Think about:
How heavy your door is.
How often you'll use it.
What look you want.
How do hidden door hinges differ from traditional hinges?
Hidden door hinges, also known as concealed hinges, differ significantly from traditional hinges in their installation process and aesthetic impact.
Installation:
Hidden Hinges: Often require more precise and complex installation, involving cutting into both the door and the frame.
Traditional Hinges: Are typically easier to install, often surface-mounted or with simple mortising.
Visibility:
Hidden Hinges: Are designed to be completely concealed when the door is closed, providing a seamless, clean look.
Traditional Hinges: Remain visible when the door is closed, often becoming a part of the door's aesthetic.
Applications:
Hidden Hinges: Are commonly used in applications where a clean, uninterrupted surface is desired, such as modern kitchens, hidden tabletop compartments, and architectural features.
Traditional Hinges: Are more versatile and used in a wider range of applications, including standard doors, gates, and utility doors.
In essence, hidden hinges prioritize aesthetics and a clean finish, while traditional hinges prioritize functionality and ease of installation.
How to make sure you have the right hinge.
An engineer may need to work with a trusted supplier in order to find the right hinge for their application or to develop a customized solution. Contact Southco to learn more about the different types of hinges available and where to use them. Our team is happy to answer any questions you may have about hinges and how they can fit into your application to create great end user experiences.