[caption id="attachment_710" align="alignleft" width="183"] Stainless Steel Hinge[/caption]
Hinges are mechanisms which we take very much for granted and often completely ignore, yet without them our every day functions would be very different. A hinge mechanism occurs in nature for example, to allow a bivalve mollusc such as a mussel to open and close. This observation in nature may have led to early mankind copying the function in everyday objects. In simple form a hinge can be a folded piece of paper of which a part is glued to another piece creating a flap. A lid which has a moveable joint or mechanism allowing it to cover a box yet be opened is another basic form which we probably use daily. Generally every door we go through will have a type of hinge unless it is a sliding door.
Since early times there have been mechanisms, to hinge objects, using a variety of materials. Ancient doors used a pivot mechanism to open large timber doors in fortified and grand buildings This was often made by creating a carved timber or attached metal rod to protrude from the edge of the timber door which then connected to a carved out nugget in the stone frame or structure. The door would be lifted up to connect to the pivot then dropped into place, this crude mechanism would be the forerunner of the modern hinge. Modern versions of this type of lift-off hinge are available and are sometimes called a Full Leaf Hinge or a Journal Support Hinge, ask the Doorsan Sales Team about the type of hinge you may need.
Nowadays, there are many types of hinges for timber doors made from a variety of metal as this wears well and often comes ready lubricated to assist the action and extend the life of the hinge. The range of hinges available can compliment traditional and rustic door styles such as polished Brass, Black Antique foundry finish or Florentine Bronze. For contemporary styling, polished or satin stainless steel is available in both slim, almost concealed hinges, to chunky styles which make a design statement. For external timber doors you may wish to choose bearing run hinges in Polished Stainless Brass (PVD) which are of a particular high quality and also suitable for hanging FD30 Fire Doors . When choosing hinges it is important to decide on the type before the finish, decide on the correct size and function of the hinge most suitable for the door style. For example, if you have double doors separating two rooms you may want them to fold back against the wall support rather than protrude into the room, if you have sufficient space then a Parliament Hinge may work well in this situation as they will allow the doors to fold back 180 degrees.
There are many types of door hinge available, too many to fully explain in this brief blog. However, please look at the door hardware section on the website to choose appropriate hinges for your new doors. We have a small selection displayed yet if you do not see your requirements or need specific advice, please contact our sales team to discuss your specific requirements.