Opening Doors to Top-Notch Hinges

When a person goes to upgrade the hinges in their home, they may be confused as to the similarities and differences between residential, architectural, or industrial access hardware hinges.

Residential hinges are found in most new homes, and industrial hinges are found in large commercial buildings, shops, and public or private facilities.

 

Architectural ones are those used to upgrade the hinges or to install custom doors. Architectural hinges are constructed using a heavier grade of material and are of higher quality. In addition, more finish options may be found when it comes to this type of hinge, and some feature a non-removable pin. One thing to bear in mind when choosing architectural hinges is the mortise depth of both the jamb and the door must be modified due to the increased thickness of architectural hinges.

Installing A Door Hinge

1. Determine the correct placement of the door hinges. The top hinge is typically located seven inches below the top of the door frame, and the second hinge is situated 11 inches from the door frame bottom. When a third hinge is needed to support a heavy door, it's located directly in the middle of the first two.
2. Figure out the placement of the hinge on the door and jamb. At this time, figure out the hinge depth on the jamb, and utilize a box-cutter to score the hinge outline.
3. Following the scored lines, cut the mortise or wood in the jamb using a hammer and sharp chisel. A dull chisel often leads to excessive pressure being applied, and this can lead to mistakes. Tap the chisel from the side of the jamb and remove strips of wood. Repeat this process until the correct depth is achieved, taking care not to remove too many strips. Doing so will lead to the hinge loosening with time and use. In the event a cut is made too deeply, take a small piece of cardboard and insert it into the jamb before the hinge is installed.
4. Place the hinge in the jamb where the mortise has been cut and mark where the screws need to be placed. Repeat this process with the hinge and the door.
5. Create pilot holes in the jamb using a drill. Tap the screws in lightly beforehand to make certain they don't move out of the appropriate location.
6. Install the first hinge and attach the door to the jamb. Shims may be needed under the door to make the process easier, as they hold the door in the correct position for installing the hinges. Repeat the process for the second hinge. Insert the hinge pins once the hinge plates have been lined up.
7. Open and close the door repeatedly to ensure everything works as intended.

 

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Questions?

Email us at sales@essentracomponents.com or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 800-847-0486.