Cabinet hinges are of different types, and picking the one that works for your cabinet might seem a daunting task. This doesn't have to be so, as you can make a precise choice of cabinet hinges based on a few factors, such as your cabinet requirements and door styles.
However, while cabinet hinges are available in different types, some types are more popular than others. Since you are looking for the most common type of cabinet hinges, we have compiled a list of the three most common cabinet hinges on the market.
This piece unravels all you need to know about the top three types of cabinet hinges. You will also learn how to choose the best cabinet hinges that work best for you:
Cabinet hinges are classified into three major types: straight, middle and big bends. Each of these types is designed differently and fits different applications. Hence, knowing how each type works gives you an idea of which one is best for your cabinet.
Straight hinges are the simplest of the three types of hinges. They are made of two plates coupled together by a pin.
Straight hinges are designed for applications where the doors open in one direction. Hence, if your cabinet doors open and close in one direction, straight hinges will make your best choice of cabinet hinges.
Middle hinges are also common in cabinetry. These are two-way hinges that allow cabinet doors to swing in two directions. Hence, if you open your cabinet in two directions, you will definitely find value in middle hinges.
You will need big-bed hinges if your cabinets are heavy and you need something strong to hold the doors to the frames, thanks to the sophisticated nature of the hinges. Of the three types of hinges, big-bend hinges are the most sophisticated type, hence their adoption in heavy weight applications.
The hinge market is full of different types of hinges, and choosing the right one for your cabinet can be a daunting task, as you don’t know which option is the best for you.
However, equipping yourself with the important factors to consider when choosing hinges will help ease your task of choosing the right hinges.
Here are a few factors to consider when making a precise choice of cabinet hinges:
The cabinet structure type is a cabinet with a box face, which is of two types:
* Face-Frame Cabinets
Face-frame cabinets have a structure that joins to the front of the cabinet. This structure provides the cabinet box additional resilience while putting in dimension to the front of the door.
* Frameless Cabinets
Frameless cabinets do not have a face frame. They rather depend on the thicker sideboards for stability.
There are four basic cabinet door types:
* Overlay Doors
The door is bigger than the entrance and sits entirely on top of it, which means they are covering the cabinet frame, and no part of the door sits within the entrance.
* Inset Doors
The door sits entirely in the entrance and is flush with the cabinet frame, the exterior of the cabinet.
* Partial Inset Doors
A part of the door is into the entrance, and the other part of the door overlays the entrance.
* Offset Doors
Offset doors are quite similar to partial inset doors, but the hinge is mounted on the surface, and it can fully be seen.
Choose the hinge style that complements the layout of your cabinets. Typical styles include butt hinges, concealed hinges, overlay hinges, and European hinges.
How far or to what extent the hinge will allow a door to open defines the degree of opening. Some cabinet hinges will only let the door open just above 90°, but others offer a much greater degree of opening.
For example, a 270° hinge will only let the door swing back against the cabinet side. Hence, it is crucial to determine the desired opening angle for your cabinet doors.
Decide on the hinges that match the material and finish of your cabinet hardware. Depending on cabinet hinge manufacturers, common cabinet hinge materials include stainless steel, brass, and nickel, with finishes like chrome, bronze, or brushed metal.
Some hinges are easier to install than others. Hence, if you're embarking on a DIY project, choose hinges with ease of installation and clear installation instructions.
Ensure you shop your cabinet hinges from a reputable cabinet hinge manufacturer, like Hench Hardware, that is known for producing quality hardware. Investing in durable hinges ensures long-lasting performance and durability.
While cost shouldn't be the sole determining factor for choosing cabinet hinges, it's important to stay within your budget. Balance quality and features with your financial considerations.
Conclusion
Cabinet hinges are a crucial part of every cabinet. They make the opening and closing of your cabinets easy and smooth. The only challenge faced is knowing which option is best for you.
This article has narrowed down the list of cabinet hinges to the three common types of cabinet hinges based on the closing mechanisms, so it is easier to make a choice.
You have also learned the key factors to consider when making your choice of cabinet hinges.
If you are looking for hinges from a reputed cabinet hinge manufacturer, Hench Hardware is your best store. At Hench Hardware, our cabinet hinges catalog offers you all types of hinges, so you will find the ones you have in mind.
Check our cabinet hinge section and choose the one that suits your cabinet and style.
Also, if you find yourself stuck in your decision to make the right choice of hinges for your cabinetry, we will be glad to help you out. When you contact us, our team of experts will attend to you and recommend the right hinges for your cabinets.