Butt hinges are hardware devices used to hang doors, cabinets, and trunks. They consist of two metal plates with interlocking teeth joined by a pin. They come in various finishes and designs, including ball bearing and lock hinges. Installation can be recessed or surface mounted.
A butt hinge is a hardware device used to hang and swing a door. Builders can also use these hinges to install cabinet doors or even to attach a lid to a trunk or chest. Butt hinges are generally the simplest and cheapest hinge design available and come in several varieties to meet the needs of different types of projects. They are available in finishes ranging from chrome to brass and generally feature a solid steel construction. Butt hinge finishes are typically chosen to match the surrounding hardware in order to create a cohesive look.
Each butt hinge consists of two metal plates or leaves. The edge of each plate is made up of interlocking teeth, also called knuckles. The two plates fit together at the knuckles and are joined together by a metal pin or pin, which passes through the knuckles the full length of the hinge. This allows the two plates to hinge from each other up to 180 degrees or close face to face like the pages of a book.
These hinges typically come with pre-drilled holes designed to accommodate screws or other fasteners. Each manufacturer uses a unique screw pattern, which means that the screw locations are slightly different by manufacturer and brand. This is designed to encourage users to stick with the same brand when replacing or repairing an existing door.
Traditional butt-hinged designs simply featured metal knuckles, which created a great deal of friction as the doors opened or closed. In modern hinges, a ball bearing is often inserted between each hinge to reduce friction. This not only extends the life of the zipper but allows for easier and more efficient operation.
Some applications may require special butt hinge designs. For example, exterior doors are often hung using lock hinges, which have a non-removable pin. This means that intruders are unable to hammer in the bolt or pin and remove the door to gain access. Other specialty hinges include ring hinge designs. The knuckles on these hinges lift and separate when the door is opened, which allows the door to open with ease while minimizing unsightly gaps under the door when closed.
A butt hinge can be recessed or surface mounted to the sash and frame. To install a recessed hinge, builders must first drive a recess into the edge of the door and frame. This can be done using a hammer and chisel, or with the help of a special template and a mechanical wood cutter. Surface mount hinges do not require this recess and are usually easier to install.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
