General Info About Hinges
Hinges are mechanical bearings that connect two objects, allowing rotation between them. Choosing the right hinge is critical for door alignment, durability, and function.
Hinge Types
The main categories are butt hinges, concealed (European/cup) hinges, continuous (piano) hinges, pivot hinges, and specialty hinges for glass, heavy doors, and gates. Each type serves a specific purpose and installation context.
Key Terminology
Overlay: how much the door covers the cabinet frame. Inset: the door sits flush inside the frame. Reveal: the gap between door and frame. Cup depth: the drilled hole depth for concealed hinges (typically 11-14mm). Bore distance: the distance from the door edge to the cup center (typically 3-6mm).
Mounting Types
Face frame mounting attaches the hinge to the cabinet frame. Frameless mounting uses dowels or screws directly into the cabinet box. Each requires specific mounting plates and hinge arm configurations.
Soft-Close Technology
Soft-close hinges use a hydraulic damper to slow the door before it closes completely, preventing slamming. Available as integrated mechanisms or add-on dampers that clip onto standard hinges.