Door hinges are crucial components for any swinging commercial door. Without hinges, the door cannot swing. Architectural hinges, also known as butt hinges, are available in various sizes and offer multiple options to suit different opening conditions.

An architectural hinge consists of two metal plates connected by a pin that passes through the knuckles. For commercial doors that experience frequent use and for doors with door closers, hinges with ball bearings or other anti-friction bearings are typically recommended.

View a one-hour summary video.

Hinge types: Traditional hinges are the most widely used type for hanging doors. They can be distinguished by the number of knuckles on the barrel, with options available in two, three, and five knuckles. The five-knuckle hinge is the most commonly utilized. The knuckles on a hinge are easily recognizable. In a 3-knuckle hinge, the ball bearings are hidden but function just like those in other ball bearing hinges.

Three knuckle hinges are more visually appealing due to the fewer knuckles and the concealed ball bearing casings. 

Bearing function: Bearing offerings include plain bearings, ball bearings, concealed bearings and spring hinge designs. When selecting traditional hinges, remember to use ball bearing or concealed bearing hinges for doors equipped with door closers and for fire-rated openings.

Ives offering: Ives offers a wide variety of full mortise hinges that support various applications including swing clear, wide throw and electrified. 

Other types, such as half mortise, full surface, and half surface hinges, are available for order as engineered specials.

Architectural or conventional hinges work by providing a pivot point that allows doors to swing open and closed. They consist of two leaves attached to the door and frame, interlocking knuckles, and a pin that holds them together. Proper installation and alignment ensure smooth operation and durability. These hinges are essential components in both residential and commercial settings, offering reliable and efficient door functionality.

Components of a Hinge

1. Leaves (or Flaps): A hinge consists of two plates (leaves) that are attached to the door and the door frame. These leaves are typically rectangular and have holes for screws to secure them in place.
2. Knuckle (or Barrel): The knuckles are the cylindrical parts of the hinge where the leaves meet. They interlock to form a pivot point.
3. Pin: A pin runs through the knuckles, holding the leaves together and allowing them to pivot. This pin can be removable or fixed.

Functionality

1. Attachment: One leaf of the hinge is attached to the edge of the door, and the other is attached to the door frame. The screws secure the leaves in place.
2. Pivot Point: The knuckles of the two leaves interlock, and the pin runs through them, creating a pivot point. This pivot point allows the door to swing open and closed.
3. Movement: As the door is pushed or pulled, the leaves rotate around the pin. The smooth operation of the hinge ensures that the door moves effortlessly on its axis.

Applications

Residential Doors: Conventional hinges are widely used in homes for interior and exterior doors. Ives offers our 1000 series low-usage, or residential hinges in various sizes, styles, and finishes. 

Commercial Buildings: Architectural hinges are designed to meet higher standards for durability and performance, making them suitable for commercial applications.

Specialty Doors: Hinges are also used in specialty applications like cabinets, gates, and furniture. Consult factory technical service for engineered special applications.

Ives offers a variety of architectural hinges, also known as butt hinges, that will cover residential and commercial applications while also exceeding code requirements. Choose from high-quality hinges offered in a variety of substrates, knuckles, bearings, and styles. Use our selection guide in the general information section to better understand the right hinge for your application.

There are various code considerations depending on your building and application relating to hinges. It is critical that hinges and hardware are secured, aligned, and free swinging without any binding and no damage to ensure the door properly hangs and closes for security and fire-life safety. There is more information about many code topics relating to hanging the door on iDigHardware.com. 

Below are a few industry standards relating to hinges. Hinges shall be:

- steel, ball-bearing hinges, or meeting the requirements of ANSI/BHMA A156.1

- doors up to 60 inches (1.52 m) in height – two hinges

- one additional hinge for each 30 inches (0.76 m) of door height (or fraction)

- if spring hinges are used – two minimum, labeled, and meeting the requirements of ANSI/BHMA A156.17, Grade 1

- heavyweight hinges 4 ½ inches (114 mm) high and 0.180 inches (4.57 mm) thick permitted on doors that are wide or heavy or subject to heavy use or stress

View Allegion's code and compliance services and resources page for detail

a. If under 250 pounds, proceed to next step. 

b. If over 250 pounds, consider other options such as a continuous hinge or pivot. 

2. Determine frequency of use or door cycles per day.

a. Under 30 cycles per day:   Plain bearing hinge   (Grade 3)

b. 50 - 100 cycles per day:     Standard weight hinge  (Grade 2) 

c. 100+ cycles per day:          Heavy weight hinge  (Grade 1)

3. Determine existing frame or hardware

a. For doors with closers and/or fire rated openings, use ball bearing or concealed bearing hinges.

4. Determine type of metal needed.

a. Plated or painted steel can be used for interior, non-corrosive environments, and interior rated doors.

b. Stainless steel, brass or bronze should be used for exterior door or corrosive environments. 

5. Determine hinge height based on door thickness and width. 

a. See table in catalog, page X.

b. Hinge height can vary from 3.5"  to 6"  based upon door size.  

6. Determine hinge open width based on clearance requirement (distance between door and wall at 180 degree opening.)

a. See table in catalog, page A2.

b. Hinge width can vary from 4" to 8" based upon clearance needed. 

7. Determine number of hinges needed. 

a. Doors under 7'6":    3 hinges

b. Doors over 7'6":      4 hinges

8. Determine location of hinges

a. Top hinge 5" from jamb rabbet to top of barrel

b. Bottom hinge 10" from bottom edge of barrel to finished floor

c. Third hinge centered between top and bottom hinges

d. Note: Consult door manufacturer for other hinge locations

There can be multiple other factors to consider, such as applications for wide throw hinges or swing clear hinges. For a detailed introduction to hinges, view our 1-hour summary video. 

Architectural hinges typically require minimal maintenance and can last for many years with proper care. They need to be regularly lubricated to prevent corrosion and rust. Occasionally tightening the screws in the plates makes sure your door isn’t misaligned and prevents damage to your door. Depending on application heavy-use, substrate, and hinge size or improper installation, they may need more regular maintenance.

Standard hinges are best lubricated by removing the pin, applying a generous coating of lithium grease, and reinserting the pin. If hinges begin to make any noise, remove binding conditions and grease or lubricate.

View our Ives installation and maintenance support resources for more info.

Steel hinges are intended for use on interior applications only. Brass and stainless steel hinges can be used for either interior or exterior applications. All steel hinges will eventually rust and all brass will eventually tarnish. To slow the corrosion or tarnishing process a clear coat is applied. Ives offers hinges in brass, steel and stainless steel base materials to meet code and durability requirements. 

A full mortise architectural hinge is a recessed hinge designed for a flush installation in both the door and the door frame. It provides a clean and seamless appearance, making it suitable for both residential and commercial applications. Available in various materials and finishes, these hinges can accommodate different aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. Proper installation and alignment are essential to ensure smooth operation and durability. Ives offers a wide variety of full mortise hinges that support various applications including swing clear, wide throw and electrified. 

Other types, such as half mortise, full surface, and half surface hinges, are available for order as engineered specials.

Proper installation of architectural hinges on commercial building doors involves selecting the right hinges, ensuring correct placement and spacing, aligning the hinges accurately, pre-drilling holes, and using appropriate screws. Additionally, consider the door's weight, usage frequency, and compliance with fire safety regulations. Regular maintenance and inspection are essential to ensure long-term performance and durability. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that the doors in commercial buildings operate smoothly and reliably.

Here are some guidelines and considerations to follow:

1. Selecting the Right Hinges

Hinge Type: Choose the appropriate hinge type for the door's weight, usage frequency, and application (e.g., ball bearing hinges for high-traffic areas).

Material: Ensure the hinge material is suitable for the environment (e.g., stainless steel for corrosive environments).

Size: Select the correct hinge size based on the door dimensions and weight.

2. Number of Hinges

Standard Doors: Typically, three hinges are used for standard-sized doors. For heavier or taller doors, additional hinges may be required.

Heavy Doors: For doors over 200 pounds or taller than 7 feet, consider using four or more hinges to distribute the weight evenly.

3. Placement and Spacing

Top Hinge: Install the top hinge 5-7 inches from the top of the door.

Bottom Hinge: Place the bottom hinge 10-12 inches from the bottom of the door.

Middle Hinges: Space additional hinges evenly between the top and bottom hinges.

4. Proper Alignment

Vertical Alignment: Ensure the hinges are vertically aligned to prevent the door from binding or sagging.

Horizontal Alignment: The hinge leaves should be flush with the door and frame surfaces for a smooth operation.

5. Pre-Drilling and Screwing

Pre-Drilling: Pre-drill holes for screws to prevent splitting the wood or damaging the door material.

Screw Length: Use screws of sufficient length to penetrate the door frame and provide a secure hold. For heavy doors, consider using longer screws.

6. Hinge Mortising

Mortise Depth: The depth of the mortise should match the thickness of the hinge leaf to ensure a flush fit.

Chisel Work: Use a sharp chisel to create clean and precise mortises for the hinges.

7. Load-Bearing Capacity

Weight Distribution: Ensure that the hinges can support the door's weight without causing sagging or misalignment over time.

Heavy-Duty Hinges: For particularly heavy doors, use heavy-duty hinges designed to handle greater loads.

8. Fire-Rated Doors

Compliance: Use hinges that comply with fire safety regulations for fire-rated doors.

Ball Bearing Hinges: For fire-rated openings, ball bearing or concealed bearing hinges are usually recommended to ensure smooth operation under stress.

9. Door Closers and Other Hardware

Compatibility: Ensure that the hinges are compatible with other door hardware, such as door closers, locks, and panic bars.

Load Sharing: When door closers are used, hinges with ball bearings or anti-friction bearings are recommended to handle the additional load.

10. Regular Maintenance

Inspection: Regularly inspect hinges for wear and tear, ensuring that screws are tight and the door operates smoothly.

Lubrication: Periodically lubricate the hinges to prevent squeaking and ensure smooth operation.

Architectural Hinges Template PDF

To remove dirt, simply wipe with a soft damp cloth. Abrasive cleaners or lacquer thinner should not be used to clean the surface of the hinges. To do so will void any warranty for the product. Stainless Steel hinges that are not clear coated may be cleaned using a scotch bright pad to remove dirt. 

View the guide here

View the Ives Pricebook for detailed how to order information and the latest pricing.

As an international company with American roots, Ives produces accessories a variety of products in the United States while some components are sourced. Ives products are made with high-quality materials such as stainless steel, brass, aluminum for strength and durability. Material quality is foundational to reliable performance, and Ives ensures through certification, inspection, and testing that all raw materials adhere to our brand’s standard of quality. All BAA compliant products can be identified in the Allegion BAA catalog. 

Ives architectural hinges have a one year warranty. View the warranty info for the latest terms and conditions.

View our resources page for a comprehensive list of training, educational resources, and support. 

Ives offers competitive comparison for like products by model.  Disclaimer: This is not a legal or binding document. Consult manufacturer’s catalogs for additional information. 

Ives offers a wide variety of full mortise three-knuckle and five-knuckle hinges that support various applications including swing clear, wide throw and electrified. Other types, such as half mortise, full surface, and half surface hinges, are available for order as engineered specials.

View all Ives products here.