Hinges
make the door, for without quality hinges, the world’s
greatest door is a creaking menace to traffic. So, correctly
selecting hinges is a crucial job for any construction project
that involves doors:
• Dependable, quality hinges, last for many years, giving
smooth, quiet service.
• Dependable, quality hinges fit their templates (where
templates are used) neatly, and are strong enough to take
extra stresses when required.
• Dependable, quality hinges install easily.
• Dependable, quality hinges seldom call attention to
themselves, unless
for excellence of fit and finish.
The simplest way to select good hinges is to check and see
if hinges meet requisite ANSI or UL standards, where those
standards are applicable. Too, be smart, and buy from a maker
you can trust, one with almost 100 years in the door hardware
business: S. Parker.
Selecting
Proper Hinges
To select the proper hinge the following factors should be
considered:
• The material of the door and frame determine method
of application, i.e. mortised, surface mounted, half surface
mounted, or half mortised.
• The size, thickness and weight of the door—wider
doors, put more strain on hinges, so taller hinges should
be used. Thicker doors require wider hinges. Heavy doors require
taller, heavier gauge, narrower hinges.
• Clearance of the trim when a door swings 180°
affects the width of the hinge.
• The frequency of use and the abuse the door will be
subjected to affect hinge choice…heavy duty ball bearings,
standard ball bearings or non-ball bearing hinges. It also
affects the need for additional hardware such as closers,
panic devices, etc.
Size
of Door
The size of the door, and its weight, are critical in selecting
a hinge that meets durability needs without exceeding cost
allowances. The size and weight of the door, and its related
accessory hardware, also help determine the number of hinges
the door will require.
Exposure of Hinges
• Under normal exposure conditions, use either brass
finished or Bonderized or Duranodic hinges.
• Plated steel hinges, in polished brass, antique brass
and similar finishes, go with architectural details where
the plated finish is needed.
• Solid brass hinges are superb for exteriors because
they do not rust.
• Stainless steel hinges are great for corrosive atmospheres,
especially for seashore use.
Hinges Materials
• Steel hinges may be Bonderized coasted for painting,
with a prime coat coming before the Bonderized coat. Normal
uses.
• Steel hinges may be plated in polished brass, antique
brass or similar finishes, for use where the plated finish suits
the application.
• Solid brass hinges are polished and finished, and the
pins are stainless steel.