How hinges differ
Hinges differ in load, closing action, visibility and the material. The table compares the main types.
Butt hinges
The standard door hinge has two leaves joined by a pin. It is simple, strong and cheap, and most interior doors use three. Choose brass or stainless for a long life, and a size matched to the door weight. Plain butt hinges wear at the pin on heavy doors, so a loud squeak or a door that drops at the latch edge is the sign to upgrade. Always fix all hinges with screws of the same length, and use at least one long screw per hinge that reaches into the stud or the solid part of the frame.
Ball-bearing hinges
Ball bearings between the knuckles reduce friction and wear, so heavy doors swing smoothly and last longer. They suit solid wooden main doors and doors used often. They cost more than plain butts, but the extra cost is small compared with the door, and the smooth swing is noticeable every day. Choose hinges with a thick leaf and a pin that does not fall out, and fit a non-removable pin on outward-opening doors so that the door cannot be lifted off from outside.
Concealed and cabinet hinges
Concealed hinges hide inside the door and frame and allow adjustment in three directions. Cabinet hinges have an overlay type and often a soft-close feature. See cabinet and furniture hardware.
Spring and continuous hinges
Spring hinges close a door by themselves and suit light doors and gates. Continuous hinges run the full length of the door, spreading the load, which suits tall, heavy or glass doors and shop doors. They are also useful on cabinet lids and fold-down tables, where a long hinge gives even support. Check that the frame and the door edge are straight, because a continuous hinge shows any twist.
Sizes and numbers
A 4 inch hinge suits most interior doors. A heavy door needs 5 inch ball-bearing hinges and a fourth hinge. Use three hinges for most doors, spaced evenly, with long screws into the frame.
Materials and finish
Brass and stainless steel resist rust, and plated steel is cheaper. Use stainless in damp areas and near the sea. Match the finish to the handle and lock, and avoid painting over hinges, which makes them stiff and spoils the look. For gates and outdoor doors, choose heavy stainless or galvanised hinges, and grease the pins once a year. Check the hinges when you repaint a door.
Buying checklist
- Door weight, height and material.
- Hinge type and size.
- Material and finish.
- Number of hinges and screw length.
- Indicative prices: about PKR 70 to 280 per butt hinge and about PKR 840 to 875 for a spring hinge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ball-bearing or continuous hinges in brass or stainless steel, with long screws into the frame and a fourth hinge for very heavy doors. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay.
Butt hinges show their knuckle and are simple and strong, while concealed hinges hide inside the door and frame and are adjustable. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the supplier before ordering.
Three for most doors, and more for heavy or tall doors, spaced evenly. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the supplier before ordering. Prices and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If in doubt, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise.
A 4 inch hinge suits most interior doors, and heavy doors need 5 inch or larger. Prices and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If in doubt, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis.
Indicative ranges are about PKR 70 to 280 per butt hinge, about PKR 840 to 875 for a spring hinge and about PKR 750 for a pair of soft-close cabinet hinges. Confirm today's rate. If in doubt, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise.
Send the type, size and quantity on WhatsApp. We confirm what we can supply and reply with a written rate. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay.
Send the door or item details, the quantity and a photo on WhatsApp. We confirm what we can supply and reply with a written rate that lists every item with its type, finish and fixings, so you can compare quotes from different suppliers on the same scope.