Butt Hinge are the most common type of hinges for doors (including interior and exterior doors) and cabinets. They are the workhorse of the hinge world, featuring a simple design, sturdy construction, and a highly concealed appearance when closed.

The name originates from their installation method: two hinge plates are embedded (or “aligned”) into the edges of the door panel and door frame.

Key Features

The hinge consists of two rectangular metal plates (called hinge plates) connected by a pin that passes through a hollow tubular component (called the hinge barrel).

1. Hinge Plates: Flat sections secured to the door and door frame with screws.

2. Hinge Barrel: A hollow cylindrical tube formed when the plates interlock.

3. Pin: A metal rod sliding along the center of the hinge tube, securing the leaves while allowing rotation.

When the door is closed, the two leaves lie flush against each other, with only the hinge tube/pin mechanism visible from the side.

Installation Method (Butt Hinge Section)

This is the essence of double-hinged installation. To achieve a flush, seamless fit, mortise grooves must be cut into both the door panel and door frame.

· One hinge is embedded into the mortise groove on the door panel edge

· The other hinge is embedded into the mortise groove on the door frame (door casing)

· When the door closes, the two hinges “align” with each other, keeping the door panel and frame surfaces flush

It is precisely this mortise-and-tenon technique that often links this technology closely with professional carpentry and fine woodworking craftsmanship.

Common Uses

Hinges are found everywhere:

· Interior doors: bedroom doors, bathroom doors, and closet doors.

· Exterior doors: Your home's main entry door almost always uses heavy-duty hinges.

· Cabinet doors: Especially common on wooden cabinets.

· Door panels and cabinets.

Types of Butt Hinges

Although the basic design remains consistent, several variants exist:

· Sliding Bearing Type: The most fundamental variant. The pin rotates directly within the hinge cup. Suitable for lightweight interior doors.

· Ball Bearing Type: Features miniature ball bearings between hinge cups to reduce friction and wear. This is the standard configuration for heavy exterior doors and high-traffic areas, preventing sagging.

· Spring-loaded double-action hinges: Incorporate a built-in spring mechanism to automatically close the door leaf, commonly found in commercial settings.

· Lift-action double-action hinges: Feature a spiral-shaped pin design that slightly raises the door leaf when opening, facilitating clearance over thick carpets or uneven surfaces.

Comparison of Butt Hinges with Other Common Hinges

· Double-fold hinges vs. strip hinges: Strip hinges use long decorative hinge plates mounted directly onto door panels and frames, rather than being embedded into edges.

· Double-hinges vs. Piano Hinges: Piano hinges (also known as continuous hinges) span the entire length of a door or panel, whereas double-hinges are typically shorter in length.

· Overlay hinges and Concealed Hinges: Concealed hinges (such as European cup hinges) are completely invisible when the cabinet door is closed. Overlay hinges, however, have visible hinge plates and pins from the side.

In short

The door hinge is a fundamental double-leaf hinge that forms a sturdy, clean, and reliable pivot point by embedding into the edges of the door panel and frame via mortise and tenon joints. It's no wonder this hinge has become a classic.