3/9
Butt Hinge
The most common hinge used on doors and cabinets, butt hinges have two rectangular-shaped leaves with knuckles in the middle, joined by a pin. There are several types: plain bearing, ball bearing (see above), spring-loaded and rising. Learn how to recess hinges on a door.
Get full details on butt hinges in this guide.
4/9
Concealed Hinge
Also called invisible, hidden and European hinges, concealed hinges are used on entry and interior doors, cabinets and furniture. They’ve been around for a long time. (Soss, a well-known brand, has been making them for more than 100 years.) Because they can’t be seen from the outside, they provide a smooth, uninterrupted appearance that’s aesthetically pleasing. And because they can’t be tampered with from the outside, they also provide security. European-style hinges can be adjusted to align doors after they’re installed. Choose invisible hinges when you want more modern looking cabinets, furniture and doors.
Concealed hinges are revealed in this guide.
5/9
Heavy-Duty Hinge
It’s designed to provide support and stability for heavy doors (including entry doors, gates or furniture lids, such as trunks and benches) and frequently-used doors. Ball bearing hinges, concealed hinges and piano hinges all come in heavy-duty versions.
