Door Hardware
Hinges
A hinge is a device consisting of two metal plates joined by a pin. The pin fits through the knuckles in the barrel, holding the two leaves together.
There are 4 basic hinge mounting types to choose from:
- Full mortise hinge: This is the most commonly used type. One leaf is mortised into hinge stile of the door, and the other leaf is mortised in the hinge jamb of the frame
- Half mortise hinge: With this type of hinge, one leaf is mortised into the hinge stile of the door, and the other leaf is surface mounted onto the face of the frame.
- Full surface hinge: Both leaves of this type are surface mounted to the door, and the frame.
- Half surface hinge: The half surface hinge has one leaf surfaced mounted onto the door, and the other leaf is mortised in the hinge jamb of the frame.
Conventional hinges are the most commonly used hinges.
Continuous hinges extend the full height of the door. This evenly distributes the weight of the door to the frame, reducing stress, and wear to the door, and frame.
Pivots are capable of carrying loads greater than what hinges could because they transfer the weight of the door directly to the floor.
Options available for hinges:
Many finishes, and sizes are available.
Non-Removable Pin (NRP). A set screw inserted in the barrel, securing the hinge pin, so that when the hinge is closed, the pin cannot be removed. Commonly used on exterior doors
Hinge Weight. There are two weights available: standard, and heavy. Doors with high-frequency use, oversized, heavier gauge or core, should have heavy weight hinges installed.
Common causes of hinge failure are:
- Incorrect type of hinge selected
- Incorrect weight of hinge selected
- Improper installation
