Square hinges are a category of hinges characterized by their square-shaped plates. These hinge plates are typically installed on the frames of doors, gates, and cabinets.
Whether you own a home or a commercial property, knowing the different types ofsquare hinges and their purposes allows you to perform DIY installation when your hinges require replacement.
Below are six types of square hinges every property owner should know, their average weight capacities, and key functionalities.
Top 6 Square Hinges
1. Butt Hinges
Butt hinges are the most widely used hinge for both residential and commercial projects. They have a simple design featuring two plates, or leaves, which are connected by a centered pin. Butt hinges are easy to install, with one leaf attaching to the frame and the other attaching to the door, and reliably support doors, gates, cabinets, and windows.
The weight capacity of this square hinge type depends on the door size and property. Commercial doors and gates are usually heavier than those on residential properties and requireheavy-duty butt hinges.
2. Weld-On Square Block Hinges
Weld-on square block hinges are heavy-duty hinges crafted from steel or stainless steel. They provide a stronger hold than other hinges by permanently attaching to the metal surface of commercial doors and security gates. However, they are more difficult to install than other hinges, as welding experience is required to weld the hinge in place.
The weight capacity of weld-on square block hinges, depending on the hinge's dimensions, ranges from 400 to 1,200 pounds.
3. Swing Clear Hinges
Swing-clear hinges maximize accessibility by allowing doors to “swing clear” of the doorway opening. Examples of spaces where these square hinges are typically installed include commercial kitchens, restrooms, and senior living facilities or hospitals where wheelchairs and medical equipment require complete clearance.
The majority of swing clear hinges can support up to 150 pounds, althoughheavy-duty options are available for extensively used doors.
4. Single Acting Spring Hinges
Single-acting spring hinges are designed with a spring mechanism that brings doors to a close automatically after opening. These hinges are chosen for their convenience and increased safety specifically in residential settings.
Single-acting spring hinges are designed to accommodate weights between 35 and 100 pounds.
5. Double Acting Spring Hinges
Like single-acting spring hinges,double-acting spring hinges enable to door to close automatically. The difference between these two types of square hinges is the swing direction.
Double-acting spring hinges can swing in both directions, whereas their counterparts only swing in one. Their swing variability makes these hinges valuable in commercial settings where doors need to open easily and close securely, like restaurants.
These hinges support between 30 and about 70 pounds per two hinges.Larger heavy-duty options have a maximum weight capacity of about 143 pounds.
6. Ball Bearing Hinges
Ball-bearing hinges are designed to support heavy doors and gates. The ball bearing in the hinge reduces friction that is caused by opening and closing oversized doors, allowing the door to operate smoothly. These hinges can typically support doors up to 300 pounds.