Best Butt Hinges

Choosing the right butt hinges for your furniture or home improvement project can be a daunting task. The market is flooded with a variety of options, each claiming to offer the best quality and durability. In this article, we have reviewed the top five butt hinges of 2023 to help you choose the best one for your needs.

What are Butt Hinges?

Butt hinges are typically comprised of two rectangular metal plates (also called leaves) joined together by a pin. The leaves are mortised, or recessed, into the door and frame, which makes the hinge flush with the surfaces when the door is closed.

Types of Butt Hinges

While all butt hinges share the same basic design, there are several types to consider depending on your specific needs:

• Plain Bearing Butt Hinges: The most common type, ideal for lightweight, low-frequency applications.
• Ball Bearing Butt Hinges: These have bearings between the knuckles to reduce friction, making them suitable for heavy doors and high-frequency usage.
• Concealed Butt Hinges: These are hidden when the door is closed, providing a clean appearance.
• Hospital Tip Butt Hinges: These have rounded or sloped corners to prevent people from harming themselves, making them ideal for medical facilities.
• Electric Butt Hinges: These are used to transfer electric current between the door and frame for electric locks, exit devices, and other powered hardware.

Factors to Consider when Buying Butt Hinges

Material

Butt hinges are made from a variety of materials, each with its own pros and cons:

• Steel: This is a common choice for interior applications. Steel hinges are strong, durable, and cost-effective, but they may rust over time.
• Brass: These hinges are more decorative and resist corrosion better than steel, making them suitable for damp environments.
• Stainless Steel: These hinges are the most corrosion-resistant, ideal for outdoor applications or areas with high humidity.
• Bronze: Bronze hinges have excellent corrosion resistance and a distinctive appearance that can add a vintage charm to a room.

Size

The size of the hinge you need will depend on the size and weight of the door. As a rule of thumb, the hinge's height should be one-fifth of the door's height. For instance, a 60-inch door should have a 12-inch hinge.

The width of the open hinge should be twice the thickness of the door. For example, a 1.5-inch thick door requires a 3-inch wide hinge.

Load Bearing Capacity

The weight of the door is another important factor. Lighter doors can often be supported with two hinges, while heavier doors may require three or more. Check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure the hinges you choose can support the weight of your door.

Finish

Butt hinges come in a variety of finishes to match your decor:

• Brass: Gives a warm, classic look.
• Nickel: Offers a modern, sleek appearance.
• Bronze: Adds a rustic, antique charm.
• Black: Provides a bold, contemporary style.

Installation

Most butt hinges are easy to install, with the plates screwing directly into the door and frame. Some may require a chisel to create the mortise. Consider your comfort level with installation when choosing your hinges.

Price

The price of butt hinges can vary widely based on the type, material, and finish. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that quality hinges can improve the functionality and longevity of your door.

Safety and Security

For exterior doors or doors leading to sensitive areas, you may want to consider hinges with non-removable pins or tamper-proof screws to increase security.

Top 5 Best Butt Hinges of 2023:

1. Stanley Hardware S829-269 2 Inch Butt Hinge

The Stanley Hardware S829-269 2 Inch Butt Hinge is our top pick for its excellent performance, reliability, and durability. This hinge is made from high-quality steel, ensuring it can withstand heavy usage without showing signs of wear and tear. Its satin brass finish adds a touch of elegance to any door or cabinet, making it not just a functional piece but also an aesthetic addition to your home.

The hinges come in a pack of two, are easy to install, and they fit most standard door cutouts. Their removable pin design allows for easy door removal, which is a significant advantage during renovations or moving. Stanley Hardware provides a lifetime warranty on this product, further attesting to its durability.

2. AmazonBasics Self-Closing Door Hinge

Next on our list is the AmazonBasics Self-Closing Door Hinge. This hinge is designed with a self-closing feature, making it perfect for doors that should remain closed for safety or privacy. They are made from durable metal with a satin nickel finish, ensuring they can withstand heavy usage without compromising their aesthetic appeal.

The AmazonBasics hinges are sold in packs of 50, making them a cost-effective choice for large-scale projects. They come with all necessary mounting hardware, ensuring an easy installation process. However, some users have reported that the self-closing feature can be a bit stiff initially, but it tends to loosen up after some use.

3. National Hardware N830-102 Door Hinge

National Hardware N830-102 Door Hinge is a high-quality hinge designed for heavy doors. Made from solid brass, this hinge offers excellent durability and corrosion resistance. Its ball-bearing design ensures a smooth and quiet operation, making it perfect for doors in high-traffic areas.

The hinge features a 5-knuckle design for added strength, and its non-removable pin provides added security, making it nearly impossible to remove the door without taking the hinge off. This feature makes the National Hardware hinge ideal for exterior doors.

4. Global Door Controls 3.5 in. x 3.5 in. Satin Nickel Plain Bearing Steel Hinge

This hinge from Global Door Controls is a high-quality steel hinge that offers both durability and a stylish appearance. Its satin nickel finish gives it a clean, modern look that complements a variety of interior designs.

The hinge features a plain bearing design, which provides a smooth, frictionless operation. It's sold in pairs and comes with all the necessary mounting hardware, making installation a breeze. However, some users have noted that the screws included with the hinge tend to strip easily, so you might want to consider purchasing higher-quality screws separately.

5. Dynasty Hardware 4" x 4" Mortise Spring Hinge

Last but not least, we have the Dynasty Hardware 4" x 4" Mortise Spring Hinge. This hinge is unique in that it features a spring mechanism that allows doors to self-close. This is perfect for doors that need to remain closed, like those on a child's bedroom or a pool gate.

The hinge is made of steel with a satin nickel finish, providing a stylish look that's also durable. It's rated for doors up to 85 pounds and comes with full mortise installation and adjustable spring tension. However, adjusting the spring tension can be a bit tricky, so make sure to follow the included instructions carefully.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best butt hinge for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. From the durable Stanley Hardware S829-269 to the self-closing Dynasty Hardware Mortise Spring Hinge, each of these hinges offers unique features that make it stand out. We hope this review helps you make an informed decision when choosing the best butt hinges for your projects.