There are two primary metal products used in the construction sector. These include rough and finish hardware. Rough hardware comprises the elements that should be concealed, such as screws, nails, spikes, and bolts. Finish hardware, on the other hand, includes the features in your construction that serve as decorative and functional components like the latches, locks, and hinges.
People focus on fasteners when considering the products on sale at a nail & screw supplier store for their construction project. They nonetheless forget a type of finish hardware essential for giving the perfect first impression for guests and their clients. This is the gate hinge. It connects the gate to its post and guarantees it works seamlessly. The following are some of your alternatives for gate hinges.
The Strap Hinge
This is also called the tee or band hinge. The strap hinge is generally used for properties with the Tudor, Arts and Crafts and Old World architectural styles. It is typically surface-mounted and used on barn doors and gates of a medium weight. Strap hinges are primarily easy to install and are available in several decorative styles.
Heavy-Duty Hinges
The two types of heavy-duty gate hinges include weld-on and bolt-on hinges. The weld-on hinges weigh up to 2000lbs while the bolt-on ones generally come with maximum weights of 1000lbs. These hinges are strong enough to hold large metal gates and are durable. Their installation nonetheless tends to be a bit challenging. Moreover, they will leave a gap between the gate and frame, making them less ideal for properties looking for a high level of privacy and security.
Pintle Hinges
These are ideally used in gates that will be attached to masonry walls. For their installation, you will first drill a hole into the wall, insert a lag anchor into this hole and then screw your pintle hinge’s bolt hook to the lag anchor. The hinges are easy to repair since their removal only involves their lifting off of their bolt hook.
Spring Hinges
If you are installing a gate that should only swing in a single direction and be self-closing, the ideal choice is a single-acting spring hinge. You can use more than one spring hinge to match the size and weight of your gate. You can also get a gate that will swing both ways by using a double-acting spring hinge. This brings back the gate to its closed or centre position after opening.
Hybrid Hinges
These are generally a combination of strap and butt hinges. They are thus a strong yet stylish and slim alternative for the installation of gates. The H-style and tee hinges are the most common types of hybrid hinges used for gates.
Before picking any of the above hinge styles for your clients’ gates, you should account for the weight, height, thickness, and width of the gate. This way, you are sure to pick the right size for your gate hinge and guarantee that it works with the gate. Bronze, brass and stainless steel are some of the material alternatives available for gate hinges with powder coating, satin or polished chrome, pewter or satin nickel finishes.
