How to Choose the Right Custom Hinge for Your Project

Choosing the right custom hinge is very important. It can help your project work well or not. You need a hinge that fits what you want. It is easy to forget something important. Think about weight, how far it moves, safety, where it will be used, and what it is made of before you choose. Many people forget to match the hinge to the door’s weight or what it is made of. 

• Ignoring the door’s material

• Not installing it the right way

• Forgetting about how it looks

• Only thinking about one hinge type

Look closely at what your project needs before you pick a hinge.

Key Takeaways

• Always pick a hinge that matches your door’s weight. Use heavy-duty hinges if your door weighs over 200 pounds. This helps stop the door from sagging or getting out of place.

• Think about how much your door needs to move. Pick hinges that let the door swing as much as you want. Some hinges can also stop the door from moving too far.

• Make sure to focus on security for entryway hinges. Choose hinges that are hard to tamper with. Strong materials like stainless steel help keep things safe.

• Pick hinge materials that fit where you will use them. Stainless steel does not rust easily. Aluminum is light and works well in wet places.

• Measure your door and space before you buy hinges. Good measurements help the hinge fit right and work well.

• Use enough hinges for your door’s size. Bigger or heavier doors need more hinges for better support.

• Take care of your hinges often to make them last longer. Oil the moving parts and tighten screws to stop damage.

• Use the checklist in the blog to make sure you remember all the important steps when picking a hinge for your project.

Selection Factors

Weight and Load

You want your custom hinge to support the weight of your door or panel. If you pick a hinge that is too weak, it can fail and cause problems. For most homes, standard duty hinges work well for doors up to 200 pounds. If you have a heavy door or use it often, you should look for heavy-duty hinges. These can handle doors up to 200 pounds for high use, or even up to 400 pounds for medium use.

If you use a hinge that cannot handle the load, you might see:

• The door sagging or becoming misaligned

• Hinges wearing out quickly

• Safety risks from the door falling or breaking

Always check the load rating before you choose a custom hinge. Make sure you use good fasteners and install the hinge the right way. Poor installation can lower the hinge’s strength and make your project unsafe.

Range of Motion

Think about how far you want your door or panel to move. Some custom hinges open wide, while others only allow a small swing. The design of the hinge changes how much it can move. For example, special flexure hinges can be made to bend more in one direction and less in another. This helps you control the movement for your project.

If you need your door to open all the way, pick a hinge that allows a full swing. If you want to limit movement, choose a hinge with a smaller range. The right design gives you smooth motion and keeps your project working well.

Security Needs

Security matters, especially for doors that protect your home or business. You want a custom hinge that matches your security needs. Some hinges come with extra features to stop tampering or forced entry. For high-security areas, stainless steel hinges work best because they are strong and resist rust. Look for hinges with a high grade, like grade 9 or even grade 13, for the best protection.

Hinge Type	Security Features	Best Use
Stainless Steel	Strong, resists corrosion	High-security doors
Butt Hinges	Ball or thrust bearings, low maintenance	External doors
Concealed Hinges	Hidden from view, more secure but lower load limit	Interior, special frames

If you pick the wrong hinge for a busy entryway, you might end up fixing or replacing it often. Heavy-duty doors in commercial spaces need strong hinges to keep people safe. Some security doors use tamper-resistant hinges and extra metal parts to stop break-ins. Always think about the threats in your area and pick a hinge that keeps your space secure.

Environment

When you choose a hinge, think about where you will use it. The place you use it can change how well it works. It can also change how long it lasts. If you do not think about this, your hinge might rust. It might not move well anymore.

If you use your hinge outside, watch for rain and wet air. Salt in the air can also hurt your hinge. Water can make it rusty and sticky. Hot and cold weather can make the metal change size. This can make the hinge loose. Dust and chemicals in the air can also wear out the hinge. They can make it look old.

Here are some materials that work well in hard places:

Material	Properties
Stainless Steel	Does not rust because it has chromium.
Brass	Looks nice and does not rust easily.
Aluminum	Is light and does not rust.
Bronze	Is strong, looks good, and fights germs.
Galvanized Steel	Has a zinc coat to stop rust. Good for outside use.

Stainless steel is good if you live near the sea or where it rains a lot. Brass and bronze look nice and do not rust much. Aluminum is light and does not rust, so it is good for gates. Galvanized steel has a special coat to stop rust. It is great for garden gates or sheds.

If you want your project to last, match the hinge to the place. Think about rain, sun, and dirt. Pick a hinge that can handle these things. This will help you save time and money later.

Custom Hinge Types

Butt

Butt hinges are very common. You see them on many doors and cabinets. They have two flat plates called leaves. These leaves connect with a pin. The plates go into the edge of the door and frame. This makes the hinge sit flat and look tidy. Butt hinges let your door open wide, up to 180 degrees.

Here is what makes butt hinges special and where you use them:

Characteristic/Application	Description
Characteristics	Rectangular plates, mortised, lets doors swing up to 180 degrees, has two same-sized leaves joined by a pin.
Typical Applications	Used in doors, cabinets, fire doors, panels, and enclosures in construction, furniture, marine, and aerospace.
Specific Uses	Used for heavy-duty jobs in medical and military places, at home in doors and cupboards, in factories, and on boats.

Tip: If you need a strong and simple hinge for a heavy door or a busy place, butt hinges are a good pick.

Piano

Piano hinges are also called continuous hinges. They run along the whole edge of a door or panel. You see them on piano lids, toolboxes, and storage chests. These hinges spread the weight out along the edge. This means no one spot gets too much stress. Your door or lid will last longer.

Let’s see how piano hinges compare to other types:

Feature	Piano Hinges	Other Hinges
Durability	Very strong, can hold heavy loads	Not always strong, may wear out fast
Load Distribution	Spreads weight evenly	Weight is not spread, can cause stress

• Piano hinges are made for heavy use and can hold a lot.

• They help stop sagging and keep things straight.

If you want a custom hinge for a long door or panel, a piano hinge is a smart choice.

Concealed

Concealed hinges are hidden when the door is closed. You see them in kitchen cabinets and modern furniture. These hinges make your project look smooth and clean. You do not see any hardware from the outside.

Here is why people like concealed hinges:

Advantage	Description
Seamless Operation	Concealed hinges let doors and compartments move smoothly and quietly.
Aesthetic Appeal	They keep lines clean and make things look nice.
Space-Saving	These hinges save space and let doors open without needing much room.

• Hidden from view, so your furniture looks neat.

• You can adjust them after putting them in, so doors stay straight.

• Many have a soft-close feature, so doors close quietly.

If you want your cabinets or furniture to look nice and work well, concealed hinges are a great choice. They blend in and help you use your space better.

Specialty

Sometimes, your project needs more than a basic hinge. You might want a hinge that does something special or fits a unique spot. Specialty hinges give you options that regular hinges cannot. You can find a wide variety of specialty hinges made for hardware in unique projects and distinctive applications. These hinges help you solve problems that standard hinges cannot handle.

Let’s look at some specialty hinge types you might use:

• Pivot Hinges: These let doors or panels spin on a single point. You see them in revolving doors or hidden bookcases. They work well when you want a smooth, swinging motion.

• Spring Hinges: These close doors automatically. You often use them for gates, screen doors, or safety doors. They help keep doors shut without needing a latch.

• Continuous Geared Hinges: These spread weight along the whole door edge, like piano hinges, but use gears for extra strength. You find them in schools, hospitals, and busy buildings.

• Double Action Hinges: These let doors swing both ways. You see them in restaurant kitchens or saloon doors. They make moving through spaces easy.

• Lift-Off Hinges: These let you remove doors or panels quickly. You use them for access panels or places where you need to take things off often.

• Flag Hinges: These work well for metal cabinets or electrical boxes. You can lift the door off without tools.

Here’s a table to help you see where specialty hinges fit best:

Specialty Hinge	What It Does	Where You Use It
Pivot	Rotates on a single point	Hidden doors, revolving doors
Spring	Closes door automatically	Gates, safety doors
Double Action	Swings both directions	Restaurant, kitchen doors
Lift-Off	Removes door easily	Access panels, machinery covers
Flag	Quick removal, sturdy	Metal cabinets, electrical boxes
Geared Continuous	Extra strength, smooth motion	Hospitals, schools

You might wonder when you should pick a specialty hinge. Ask yourself these questions:

• Does your door need to swing both ways?

• Do you want the door to close by itself?

• Will you need to remove the door often?

• Is your project in a busy place with lots of use?

If you answer yes to any of these, a specialty hinge could be the right choice. Specialty hinges help you solve problems and make your project work better.

Tip: Specialty hinges come in many shapes and sizes. Always check the size and weight limits before you buy. Make sure the hinge matches your project’s needs.

You do not have to settle for a regular hinge if your project is unique. Specialty hinges give you more control and flexibility. You can find hardware for almost any situation. If you have a tricky spot or a special design, look for a hinge made just for that job. Specialty hinges help you get the results you want and make your project stand out.

Matching Hinge to Project

Application

You want your project to work well and last a long time. To do that, you need to match the hinge to your specific application. Every project is different. Some need to hold a lot of weight. Others need to look good or work in tough places. If you skip this step, you might pick the wrong hinge and run into problems later.

Here are some things you should think about when choosing a hinge for your application:

• Check what the hinge will hold. Is it a heavy door or a light cabinet?

• Think about the material. Some hinges work better with wood, others with metal.

• Look at the environment. Will the hinge be outside in the rain or inside where it stays dry?

• Decide how much you want to spend. Some materials cost more but last longer.

Note: Many people focus only on the size or shape of the hinge. You should also look at what your project needs. This helps you avoid early failures and extra costs.

Door Size

The size of your door or panel changes everything. A big, heavy door needs a strong hinge. A small cabinet door can use a lighter hinge. If you use the wrong size, your door might sag or not close right.

Check out this table to see which hinge types fit different doors:

Hinge Type	Application Type	Recommended Size
Heavy-Duty Ball Bearing	Heavy Commercial/Industrial	6” × 5", 6" × 6", or 8" × 6"
Butt Hinges	Heavy Doors	Used for many heavy doors
Concealed / European Hinges	Cabinet Doors	Best for cabinets, clean look

If you have a heavy industrial door, you should use heavy-duty ball bearing hinges. These can handle lots of weight and movement. Butt hinges also work well for heavy doors and are easy to remove if you need to. For cabinets, concealed or European hinges give you a modern look and smooth action.

The number of hinges you need also depends on the door size. Here’s a quick guide:

Door Height	Number of Hinges Needed
Up to 5′ (1.52m)	2
Each extra 2.5′ (.76m)	Add 1 more hinge

A wider or thicker door needs more support. If your door is extra wide, pick a hinge that can handle the extra load. This keeps your door stable and safe.

Alignment and Spacing

Getting the hinge in the right spot makes your door work smoothly. If you place the hinge wrong, your door might stick or wear out fast. You want to spread the weight so the door does not sag.

Hinge Placement

Place the top hinge about 5 inches from the top of the door. Put the bottom hinge about 10 inches from the bottom. If you need a third hinge, put it in the middle. For very tall doors, add more hinges and space them out evenly.

• Top hinge: 5 inches from the top

• Bottom hinge: 10 inches from the bottom

• Middle hinge: Centered between top and bottom

Tip: Always measure before you drill. A small mistake can make your door hang crooked.

Weight Distribution

You want each hinge to share the load. If one hinge takes too much weight, it will wear out faster. Use the right number of hinges for your door size. Make sure each hinge lines up straight with the others. This helps the door open and close without problems.

If you use a custom hinge, you can get one made for your exact needs. This gives you better support and a longer-lasting project.

Material and Finish

Stainless Steel

If you want a hinge that lasts, stainless steel is a smart choice. You get strength, durability, and a clean look. Stainless steel works well in places where you need a tough hinge, like outside doors or gates. It does not rust easily, so you do not have to worry about rain or salty air.

Take a look at what makes stainless steel stand out:

Property	Description
Exceptional Strength	Provides reliable performance in demanding applications, allowing for thinner designs.
Corrosion Resistance	Superior rust resistance compared to other metals, making it ideal for marine and harsh environments.
Long-term Durability	Ensures low-maintenance requirements and a longer life cycle than alternative materials.

You can use stainless steel hinges for heavy doors, gates, and cabinets. They hold up well in busy places, like schools or hospitals. If you live near the ocean or in a rainy area, stainless steel will not let you down. You spend less time fixing or replacing hinges, which saves you money and effort.

Tip: Stainless steel hinges look modern and match many finishes. You can polish them for a shiny look or choose a brushed finish for a softer style.

Brass

Brass gives you a classic look and strong performance. You see brass hinges in homes, hotels, and places where style matters. Brass is tough, almost as strong as steel, so you can use it for heavy doors. It brings a warm, vintage feel to your project, which many designers love.

Brass stands out because it combines strength with beauty. You get a hinge that works hard and looks good. The golden color adds charm to cabinets, furniture, and entry doors. If you want your project to stand out, brass is a great pick.

However, brass needs a little care. It can tarnish over time, so you might need to polish it now and then. Stainless steel and bronze resist corrosion better, but brass wins when you want a rich, elegant finish. If you enjoy classic style and do not mind a bit of upkeep, brass hinges will make your project shine.

Note: Brass hinges work best indoors or in dry places. If you use them outside, plan to clean and polish them regularly.

Aluminum

Aluminum hinges are light and easy to handle. You can install them without much effort, and they do not add extra weight to your door or panel. Aluminum resists rust, so it works well outside or in damp places. You see aluminum hinges on gates, sheds, and lightweight doors.

Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons:

Advantages	Limitations
Lightweight	Limited Load Capacity
Corrosion Resistance	Softness Compared to Steel
Strength-to-Weight Ratio	Lower Fatigue Resistance
Cost-Effectiveness	N/A
Durability	N/A

You get good value with aluminum. It costs less than steel or brass, and you do not have to worry about rust. However, aluminum is softer than steel. It does not hold up as well under heavy loads or constant use. If you need a hinge for a light door or a spot that does not get much traffic, aluminum is a solid choice.

Tip: Use aluminum hinges for garden gates, toolboxes, or small cabinets. If you need to support a heavy door, pick a stronger material.

Corrosion Resistance

When you pick a hinge for your project, you want it to last. Rust and corrosion can ruin a hinge fast, especially if you use it outside or in a damp place. You need to think about how well your hinge can fight off moisture, chemicals, and everyday wear. If you ignore corrosion resistance, you might end up with a sticky, squeaky, or broken hinge.

Corrosion happens when water, air, or chemicals attack the metal. Some metals, like stainless steel and aluminum, do a great job resisting rust. Others, like regular steel, need extra help. You can boost corrosion resistance by choosing the right finish. The finish acts like a shield, keeping water and dirt away from the metal.

Let’s look at some finishes that help your hinges stay strong and look good:

• Satin Nickel: This finish gives you a modern look and protects against rust. You see it a lot in kitchens and bathrooms.

• Polished Brass: Brass resists corrosion naturally. It shines bright, but you need to polish it sometimes to keep it looking new.

• Oil-Rubbed Bronze: If you want a rustic style, this finish works well. It needs little care and stands up to moisture.

• Chrome: Chrome is tough. It fights off rust and works great in places with lots of water, like showers or pool areas.

• Matte Black: This finish looks sleek and modern. It resists scratches and wear, so your hinge stays sharp.

• Antique Brass: You get a vintage look and good protection. It does not need much upkeep.

Here’s a quick table to help you compare these finishes:

Finish	Corrosion Resistance	Style	Maintenance
Satin Nickel	High	Modern	Low
Polished Brass	Good	Classic	Needs polishing
Oil-Rubbed Bronze	Good	Rustic/Vintage	Low
Chrome	Very High	Shiny/Modern	Very low
Matte Black	High	Contemporary	Low
Antique Brass	Good	Vintage	Low

Tip: If you live near the ocean or in a rainy area, pick a hinge with a finish that fights rust. Chrome and satin nickel work best for wet places.

You also want to think about where you will use your hinge. Outdoor gates, garden sheds, and pool doors need strong protection. Indoor hinges face less moisture, but kitchens and bathrooms still need good finishes. If you want your project to last, match the finish to the environment.

Some finishes need a little care. Polished brass looks great, but you have to clean it now and then. Oil-rubbed bronze and matte black need less work. Chrome is almost worry-free. You can wipe it clean and forget about rust.

Choosing the right finish helps your hinge stay strong and stylish. You save time and money because you do not have to replace rusty hinges. Your project looks better and works longer. So, take a minute to pick a finish that fits your space and style. Your hinges will thank you!

Measuring and Sizing

Measurement Steps

Getting the right size for your custom hinge starts with careful measuring. You want your hinge to fit perfectly, so grab a tape measure and follow these steps:

1. Remove the Hinge
   Take out the screws with a Phillips screwdriver. Start with the middle screw. If the hinge feels stuck, use a flathead screwdriver or a utility knife to gently pry it off.

2. Measure the Hinge Width
   Open the hinge all the way. Place your tape measure across from one edge to the other. Write down the width.

3. Measure the Hinge Height
   Hold the tape measure straight from top to bottom. Make sure it stays parallel to the hinge’s side. Record the height.

4. Measure the Corner Radius
   Lay the hinge flat. Grab a dime and a quarter. See which coin fits better in the corner. This helps you figure out the radius.

5. Note All Measurements
   Write down the radius, width, and height. You’ll need these numbers to pick the right hinge size.

Tip: Double-check your measurements before you order. A small mistake can mean a hinge that doesn’t fit.

Sizing Tips

You want your hinge to match your project. Here are some tips to help you choose the right size:

• Match the Hinge to the Door or Panel
  Heavy doors need bigger, stronger hinges. Light cabinets can use smaller ones.

• Check the Thickness
  Thicker doors need wider hinges. Thin panels work with narrow hinges.

• Count the Hinges
  Tall or wide doors need more hinges. Use two for short doors. Add a third for taller ones.

• Look at the Load Rating
  Every hinge has a weight limit. Make sure your hinge can handle the door’s weight.

• Consider the Application
  Outdoor gates need sturdy, rust-resistant hinges. Indoor cabinets can use lighter ones.

Door Type	Recommended Hinge Size	Number of Hinges
Heavy Entry Door	6" x 5" or larger	3 or more
Cabinet Door	2" x 2" to 3" x 3"	2
Tall Door	6" x 6" or 8" x 6"	3 or 4

Note: Always check the manufacturer’s guide for sizing. Every project is different.

Mistakes to Avoid

You want your project to last. Avoid these common mistakes when measuring and sizing hinges:

• Guessing the Size
  Eyeballing the hinge size leads to problems. Always measure.

• Ignoring the Corner Radius
  If you skip the radius, your hinge might not fit right.

• Using the Wrong Number of Hinges
  Too few hinges cause sagging. Too many can look odd.

• Forgetting the Door Thickness
  Thin hinges on thick doors wear out fast.

• Not Checking the Load Rating
  Hinges that can’t handle the weight break quickly.

Quick Check: Measure twice, record every number, and match the hinge to your door’s needs.

If you follow these steps and tips, you’ll get a hinge that fits and works well. You save time, avoid frustration, and make your project look great.

Installation and Maintenance

Installation Tips

You want your custom hinge to work smoothly and last a long time. Start by marking the installation points so everything lines up. Pick hinges that match your door’s size and design. Clear away anything in your work area and clean the surfaces. Get your tools and hardware ready before you begin.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you install hinges like a pro:

1. Mark where you want each hinge. Make sure the spots are level and straight.

2. Choose hinges that fit your door and match your project goals.

3. Clean the area and remove any dust or debris.

4. Lay out your tools and hardware so you don’t have to search for them.

5. Attach the hinges at the marked spots. Test the door to see if it swings smoothly.

6. Install one door first and check for any problems. Make adjustments if needed.

7. Use shims to keep cabinet doors level and aligned.

8. Measure carefully when drilling holes for handles or knobs.

9. After installation, check that everything is level.

10. Adjust doors and drawers to remove gaps and make sure they move easily.

11. Tighten all screws and fasteners for stability.

Tip: Custom hinges made from strong materials like stainless steel or thick steel work best for heavy-duty jobs. They resist rust and keep their good looks, even in tough environments.

Maintenance

Taking care of your hinges keeps your doors working well and helps them last longer. You should check your hinges often, especially in busy places. Lubricate them once a year if you use the door a lot. This keeps everything moving smoothly and quiet.

Here are some easy maintenance steps:

• Inspect hinges regularly to catch problems early.

• Lubricate moving parts with silicone spray or graphite powder.

• Tighten loose screws to prevent misalignment and wear.

• Clean hinges with a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt.

• Adjust hinges if the door starts to sag or bind.

Maintenance Task	How Often	What to Use
Clean hinges	Weekly	Soft cloth
Lubricate moving parts	Annually	Light oil or silicone spray
Tighten screws	Regularly	Screwdriver

Routine care makes your hinges last longer and keeps your doors safe and quiet.

Troubleshooting

Sometimes, hinges don’t work as they should. Maybe your door drags or squeaks. You can fix most problems with a few simple steps.

1. Check and tighten all screws. Loose screws cause misalignment and dragging.

2. Clean the hinges. Dirt and debris can make them stick or squeak.

3. Look for rust or corrosion. If you see damage, replace the hinge.

4. Use high-quality hinges for better performance and fewer problems.

5. If your door has special needs, consider a custom hinge for the best fit.

If you keep up with regular checks and maintenance, you’ll avoid most hinge troubles. When you spot a problem, fix it right away to keep your project working well.

Quick Checklist

Decision Steps

Ready to pick the right hinge? Use this step-by-step guide to make sure you cover everything. This checklist helps you avoid mistakes and keeps your project on track.

1. List Your Project Needs
   Write down what you want your hinge to do. Is it for a heavy door, a cabinet, or something special? Think about how often you will use it and if you want it to look a certain way.

2. Check the Weight and Size
   Measure your door or panel. Find out how heavy it is and how big. This helps you choose a hinge that can handle the load.

3. Decide on the Range of Motion
   Do you want your door to open all the way or just a little? Some hinges swing wide, while others only open partway.

4. Think About Security
   If you need extra safety, look for hinges with tamper-proof features or strong materials.

5. Consider the Environment
   Will your hinge be outside, near water, or in a place with lots of dust? Pick a material that resists rust and wear.

6. Choose the Right Type
   Match the hinge to your project. For example, use a piano hinge for long doors, a concealed hinge for cabinets, or a flag hinge if you need to remove the door often.

7. Pick the Material and Finish
   Stainless steel works well for tough jobs. Brass gives a classic look. Aluminum is light and resists rust. Choose a finish that matches your style and space.

8. Measure and Plan Placement
   Mark where each hinge will go. Make sure you have enough hinges for the size and weight of your door.

9. Install and Test
   Put the hinges in place. Open and close the door to check for smooth movement. Make adjustments if needed.

Tip: If you have a unique project, a custom hinge can give you the perfect fit and function.

Reference List

When you want to compare hinge options or learn more, these resources and hinge types can help:

• Piano hinge: Runs the full length of the door, great for side doors.

• Barrel hinge: Has a round shape and lets the door pivot smoothly.

• Mortise hinge: Fits into the door or frame, often made of brass or stainless steel.

• Case hinge: Looks good and works well for boxes or jewelry cases.

• Butterfly hinge: Comes in many designs, often used for decorative boxes.

• Flag hinge: Lets you remove the door easily and allows full rotation.

• H hinge: Shaped like an H, used in many different projects.

You can also check these guides for more details:

• Guide to Selecting European Hinges: Learn about hidden hinges for modern cabinets.

• Types of Cabinet Hinges: Find out about soft-close and adjustable hinges for homes and businesses.

• Soft-close mechanisms: Stop doors from slamming and make them last longer.

• Adjustable cabinet hinges: Help you line up doors perfectly.

• European hinges: Give cabinets a clean, seamless look.

• Installation and Aesthetics: Tips for balancing how your hinge works and how it looks.

Note: Always look at both function and style when you choose your hinge. The right resource can help you make a smart choice.

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You’ve learned how to pick the right custom hinge for your project. Start by checking the weight, size, and style you need. Think about where you’ll use the hinge and how often you’ll open the door. Use the checklist to stay on track and avoid mistakes. If your project feels tricky, talk to a supplier or expert.

Remember: Good hinges make your doors work better and last longer.

FAQ

What is the best hinge for a heavy door?

You should use a heavy-duty hinge, like a ball bearing or piano hinge. These types support more weight and last longer. Always check the hinge’s load rating before you buy.

How do I know how many hinges I need?

Measure your door’s height. Use two hinges for doors up to 5 feet. Add one more hinge for every extra 2.5 feet. This keeps your door stable.

Can I use brass hinges outside?

Brass looks great but does not handle rain well. If you want to use brass outdoors, plan to clean and polish it often. Stainless steel or galvanized steel works better outside.

How do I stop my hinges from squeaking?

Lubricate your hinges with silicone spray or light oil. Clean off any dust first. If the squeak stays, check for loose screws or signs of rust.

What is a concealed hinge?

A concealed hinge hides inside the cabinet or door. You cannot see it when the door is closed. These hinges give your furniture a clean, modern look.

Do I need special tools to install custom hinges?

Most hinges need only a screwdriver and a drill. For heavy doors, you might need shims or a level. Always read the instructions before you start.

How do I pick the right finish for my hinge?

Think about where you will use the hinge. For wet places, pick chrome or satin nickel. For a classic look, choose polished brass. Match the finish to your style and space.

Tip: If you are unsure, ask your supplier for samples before you decide.