The History of Hinges and Their Uses

Hinges are essential components in cabinet doors, drawers, and panels as they provide a seamless closing mechanism that keeps your cabinets and drawers secure. However, hinges have come a long way through history.

The history of cabinet hinges dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans who used hinges to create pivoting structures such as doors and gates. Hinges were made of wood, metal, or leather straps depending on the purpose of the wooden structure.

As the manufacturing industry evolved, new and better materials emerged, and so did hinge designs. Here’s a brief overview of the evolution of cabinet hinges through the ages.

Traditional Hinges (1600-1900)

Traditional hinges appeared during the 17th century and were mostly made of wrought iron. These hinges were quite simple with a pivot pin mechanism that relied on gravity to hold doors open when unlocked. The weight of the door would shut it when released, ensuring that the door was closed after use.

During the industrial revolution in the 19th century, traditional hinges saw a lot of innovations. New materials like brass and zinc began to replace iron, and hinge designs became more intricate allowing for smoother operation.

Concealed Hinges (1900-1940)

Concealed hinges were invented in the early 1900s and changed the cabinet hardware game significantly. Instead of having the hinge visible from the outside, concealed hinges are installed inside the cabinet or drawer, making them invisible when the cabinet is closed.

This innovation not only improved the aesthetic of cabinets but also allowed designers to experiment with different materials and finishes without compromising their design. Concealed hinges have remained popular, and while their design has improved over time, their function remains the same.

European (Cup) Hinges (1940-Present Day)

European hinges, also known as cup hinges, took the market by storm after World War II. This was thanks to its superior functionality compared to other hinge types available at the time. Unlike traditional hinges, which required adjustment regularly to keep them functioning correctly, European hinges were self-closing and adjusted themselves during closure, making maintenance easy.

European hinges are named after the “cup,” which is part of the hinge itself, right above the pivot point. The cup helps keep the hinge stable and provides a precise mounting location that is adjustable for positioning the door.

Since their invention, European hinges have seen vast improvements in terms of design, materials, and functionality. Today, they remain a popular choice for designers and homeowners alike.

Hinge Types

There are various types of cabinet hinges, each with their unique advantages and shortcomings. Below are some common cabinet hinge types:

1. Butt Hinges

   Butt hinges are a type of hinge commonly used in doors, cabinets and other furniture. They consist of two plates, one connected to the door or cabinet and the other connected to the frame or wall, that rotate around a pin to allow the door or cabinet to open and close smoothly.

   Butt hinges are usually made of metal, such as steel or brass, and come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different types of doors and cabinets. Some butt hinges also have additional features, such as a removable pin for easy installation or lubrication holes for smoother movement.

   In general, butt hinges are a reliable and cost-effective solution for any application that requires a sturdy and durable hinge.

2. Euro or Concealed Hinges

   Euro Hinges:

   Euro hinges, also known as European hinges or cup hinges, are a type of hinge that’s commonly used in modern-day cabinetry. This hinge is made up of two parts: the first part attaches to your cabinet door and the second part attaches to your cabinet frame. They’re called Euro hinges because they originated in Europe and are commonly used in European-style cabinets. One of the benefits of using this type of hinge is that it’s hidden from view when the cabinet door is shut. And they’re easy to install and adjust.

   Concealed Hinges:

   Concealed hinges are similar to Euro hinges because they too are hidden from view when the cabinet door shuts. The main difference is that concealed hinges don’t require a hole to be drilled into the door, like with Euro hinges. Concealed hinges are typically built for specific types of doors such as inset, overlay or full-overlay. They are often used in custom-built cabinets because they create a streamlined look without any visible hardware, screws or nails.

   Overall, both Euro and concealed hinges are great options if you’re looking for a sleek and subtle design on your cabinet doors.

3. Pivot Hinges

   Pivot Hinges are hardware devices used to mount a door or gate to the frame or jamb, allowing it to swing or rotate around an axis point instead of using traditional hinges. Pivot hinges are often used in heavy-duty doors and entryways that require additional support and security.

   There are two primary types of pivot hinges: top-pivot hinges and bottom-pivot hinges.

   • Top-pivot hinges attach to the upper corner of the door and rotate around a pivot point near the top of the frame or jamb.
   • Bottom-pivot hinges attach to the base or bottom of the door and rotate around a pivot point situated at the floor level.

   Pivot hinges are generally preferred for large and heavy doors as they offer higher durability and strength compared to standard hinges. These hinges also provide a sleek and minimalist look for modern interior design aesthetics.

4. Continuous Hinges

   Continuous hinges, also known as piano hinges, are long, narrow hinges that run the entire length of a door or box lid. They are an extremely durable and versatile type of hinge, commonly used in applications where strength and constant use are critical factors.

   Continuous hinges are made of two parts: a long, slender metal strip with evenly spaced holes on one side, and a corresponding peg on the other side that fits into the holes. The hinge is attached to the surface of the door or lid with screws, and the peg is inserted into the receiving part of the frame or box.

   One of the primary benefits of continuous hinges is their ability to distribute weight and stress evenly along the entire length of the hinge, which helps to reduce wear and tear over time. Another benefit is that because they are so strong and sturdy, they are ideal for heavy doors and lids that need to be opened and closed frequently.

   Continuous hinges are often used in commercial and industrial settings, such as schools, hospitals, and manufacturing facilities, as well as in residential applications like toolboxes, cabinets, and furniture. They come in various materials, including stainless steel, brass, and aluminum, and can be customized to fit specific requirements.

5. Overlay Hinge

   Overlay hinge is a type of hinge that is commonly used in cabinet doors. It allows the door to completely cover the frame or cabinet box when closed, leaving no gap between the two. Overlay hinges come in different sizes depending on the amount of overlay desired, which refers to how much the door overlaps the cabinet frame when closed. They can be either mounted on the surface or recessed into the door and frame, and use either screws or dowels for installation. Overlay hinges are available in a variety of finishes and styles.

6. Inset Hinges: These hinges are mounted inside the cabinet frame or door panel and do not protrude. They create a cleaner look since the cabinet’s front face is flush without any visible components.
   

FAQs

1. What is the difference between traditional and modern cabinet hinges?

Traditional hinges are usually basic in design and rely on a pivot-pin mechanism that operates through gravity. They come in several materials but were most commonly made of wrought iron. Modern hinges, on the other hand, are complex in design and offer several features beyond just supporting the door. Materials used to make modern hinges include solid brass, zinc, and stainless steel.

2. Which hinge type should I use for my cabinets or drawers?

Choosing the right hinge type depends on your needs and preferences. Concealed hinges are great for aesthetics, while exposed hinges work well if you want to accentuate the cabinet design. If you’re looking for easy maintenance, self-closing hinges may be the best option.

3. Can I install cabinet hinges myself?

Yes, installing cabinet hinges yourself is possible. However, it requires some skill, tools, and patience. Ensure that you have everything you need before starting and follow the installation manual carefully. If you’re not confident about your abilities, consider hiring a professional to do it for you.

4. Are concealed hinges more expensive than other hinge types?

Concealed hinges can be more expensive than other hinge types due to their special design and functionality. However, their cost varies depending on the manufacturer, material quality, finish, and size.