When it comes to doors, most people focus on style, colour, and locks — but few realise how essential door hinges are to function, security, and durability. At Factory Yard, we supply a wide range of high-quality hinges for industrial, commercial, and residential applications. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about door hinges, from types and materials to how to choose the right hinge for your project.

What Is a Door Hinge?

A door hinge is a mechanical bearing that connects a door to its frame, allowing it to open and close smoothly. Hinges are typically made from metal and come in various shapes, sizes, and finishes. Choosing the right hinge ensures your door operates safely, quietly, and reliably.

Types of Door Hinges

There are several types of door hinges, each suited to specific uses:

1. Butt Hinges

The most common type of hinge, butt hinges are used on interior and exterior doors. They consist of two rectangular plates joined by a central pin.

Best for: Internal wooden doors, external entry doors

2. Ball Bearing Hinges

A type of butt hinge enhanced with ball bearings for smoother operation and less friction.

Best for: Heavy doors, high-traffic commercial settings

3. Concealed Hinges (European Hinges)

These hinges are hidden when the door is closed, offering a sleek, modern appearance.

Best for: Cabinetry, modern interiors

4. Piano Hinges (Continuous Hinges)

Running the entire length of a door or lid, these offer excellent support and durability.

Best for: Storage boxes, piano lids, industrial doors

5. Flush Hinges

Designed to be mounted without needing to recess into the door or frame.

Best for: Lightweight internal doors and cabinets

6. Lift-Off Hinges

Also called removable hinges, these allow doors to be taken off without unscrewing.

Best for: Maintenance doors, removable panels

Door Hinge Materials

Choosing the right hinge material is crucial for performance and longevity:

• Stainless Steel: Corrosion-resistant and strong — ideal for outdoor or wet environments.

• Brass: Offers a classic look and good resistance to corrosion — perfect for decorative applications.

• Mild Steel: Durable and cost-effective — great for indoor applications.

• Zinc-Plated Steel: Adds rust resistance at a lower cost — suitable for light-duty use

How to Choose the Right Door Hinge?

Here are key factors to consider:

Door Weight & Size

Heavier doors require robust hinges, such as ball bearing or heavy-duty butt hinges.

Location

Outdoor doors benefit from corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel, while indoor doors have more flexibility.

Frequency of Use

High-traffic areas demand long-lasting, smooth-operating hinges like ball bearing or continuous hinges.

Aesthetic Preference

If design matters, opt for brass finishes or concealed hinges for a modern touch.

How Many Hinges Does a Door Need?

• Standard internal doors: Usually require two to three hinges.

• Fire-rated or heavy doors: Often need three or more hinges for support and safety compliance.

• Always follow manufacturer recommendations or local building codes.

Installing Door Hinges: Tips for a Smooth Fit

• Use a hinge jig or template for precise placement.

• Ensure hinges are level to prevent door sagging.

• Pre-drill screw holes to avoid splitting the wood.

• Check door alignment after installation.

Need professional tools or accessories? Factory Yard stocks all the essentials for hinge installation.

Shop Quality Door Hinges at Factory Yard

At Factory Yard, we supply durable, high-performance door hinges for every need — whether you're fitting a new front door, upgrading interior hardware, or managing large-scale commercial projects.

Explore our full range of door hinges today, including stainless steel, brass, heavy-duty, and decorative options. With competitive prices and fast UK delivery, we make it easy to get the job done right.

Final Thoughts

The right door hinge is more than just a piece of metal — it’s essential to the longevity, security, and functionality of your door. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, choosing the correct hinge can save you time, money, and frustration down the line.

Need help finding the perfect hinge? Contact our expert team at Factory Yard — we’re happy to help!