Overlay Hinges
Overlay hinges, also known as Concealed cabinet hinges, European hinge, auto hinges, or 3D hinges, are hinges widely used for kitchen cabinets and furniture.
Overlay hinges, also known as concealed cabinet hinges, European hinge, auto hinges, or 3D hinges, are a specific type of hinge commonly used for kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, and other furniture. They are designed to attach cabinet doors to the cabinet frame while allowing the doors to overlay the frame fully or partially, covering the cabinet’s edges.
Overlay hinges have a mechanism that allows the cabinet door to close on its own. These hinges have a built-in spring mechanism that provides a soft closing action. As you push the door towards the closed position, the hinge takes over and gently guides the door to close quietly and smoothly. This helps to prevent slamming and wear on the cabinet components.
These hinges offer three-way adjustability, typically allowing adjustments in three directions: side-to-side, up-and-down, and in-and-out. This level of adjustability is valuable for ensuring that cabinet doors align properly and operate smoothly, even when dealing with irregularities in the cabinet or door construction.
Selecting the right hinge involves considering various factors, such as the load, movement requirements, aesthetics, technical features, and environment. A well-chosen hinge contributes to the overall functionality, safety, and longevity of the objects they are applied to.
It’s important to consult with experts or manufacturers if you’re unsure about which type of hinge to use for a specific application. This article is specially designed for interior design professionals to provide detailed information about different types of hinges, their applications, and their technical features.
Overlay Hinges - Types, Features And Application
Types Of Overlay Hinges
Alternate Names - Cabinet Hinge, European Hinge, 3D Hinge, Auto Hinge
Overlay hinges are a type of cabinet hinge used to attach cabinet doors to the cabinet frame while allowing the door to overlay or overlap the frame. There are several types of overlay hinges, each suited for different door and cabinet configurations.
These hinges are widely used, especially in kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, and other ready-made furniture. It’s important to choose the right type of overlay hinge based on your cabinet style, door design, and functional requirements.
Overlay hinges offer a versatile solution for cabinetry and furniture, allowing doors to overlay the frame partially or fully for a clean and modern appearance. Their adjustability, aesthetic appeal, and various types make them a popular choice in interior design, especially in spaces where a streamlined and organised look is desired.
- Full Overlay Hinges: With full overlay hinges, the cabinet door completely covers the cabinet frame, leaving only a small gap between doors when they are closed. These hinges are commonly used in modern kitchen and bathroom cabinets where a sleek and seamless appearance is desired.
- Half Overlay Hinges (Partial Overlay Hinges): Half overlay hinges are used when the cabinet doors partially cover the cabinet frame, leaving a portion of the frame exposed between the doors. This type of hinge is often used in traditional or transitional cabinet styles.
- Inset Overlay Hinges: Inset overlay hinges are used with inset cabinet doors. Inset doors fit flush within the cabinet frame, rather than overlapping it. The hinge is mounted on the interior side of the door and frame. Inset overlay hinges allow the door to open and close smoothly within the frame.
- Variable Overlay Hinges: Variable overlay hinges are adjustable hinges that can accommodate both full overlay and half overlay configurations. These hinges provide flexibility for cabinet styles that may change or for situations where the door overlay needs to be adjusted.
- Reverse Bevel Hinges: Reverse bevel hinges are used when the door has a beveled edge on the opposite side of the hinge. These hinges allow the door to close flush within the cabinet frame, even with the beveled edge.
- No-Bore Overlay Hinges: No-bore overlay hinges are designed for cabinets with no pre-drilled holes for the hinges. They attach to the door and frame without the need for boring holes, providing a clean and minimalist appearance.
- Soft-Close Overlay Hinges: Soft-close overlay hinges, also known as self-closing overlay hinges, have a built-in mechanism that gently pulls the door closed, preventing it from slamming shut. This is especially useful for protecting the cabinet structure and reducing noise.
Overlay Hinges - Types, Features And Application
Features Of Overlay Hinges
- Overlay: Overlay hinges are designed to create a partial or full overlay of the cabinet door onto the cabinet frame, providing a clean and seamless appearance.
- Adjustability: Many overlay hinges are adjustable, allowing for fine-tuning of the door position and alignment.
- Different Types: Overlay hinges come in various types, including concealed hinges (hidden when the door is closed) and decorative hinges (visible when the door is closed).
- Multiple Materials and Finishes: These hinges are available in a variety of materials and finishes to match the cabinet’s design and decor.
Applications Of Overlay Hinges
- Kitchen Cabinets: Overlay hinges are commonly used for kitchen cabinets, providing a sleek and modern appearance.
- Bathroom Cabinets: These hinges are also suitable for bathroom cabinets, contributing to a tidy and organized space.
- Furniture: Overlay hinges can be used on furniture pieces with doors, such as armoires, entertainment centers, and sideboards.
- Closets: Wardrobe and closet doors can also benefit from overlay hinges to achieve a seamless and unobtrusive look.
- Storage Units: Any type of storage unit with doors can utilize overlay hinges to enhance the overall design.
Soft Close Overlay Hinges
European Hinges, Auto hinges, 3D hinges, and overlay hinges come equipped with mechanisms to adjust the door panel position and a soft close feature.
Soft-close overlay hinges are provided with a hydraulic mechanism so that whenever a door is closed with force, the mechanism ensures the jerk-free closure of the door without making any noise. If you don’t like the abrasive sound that a cabinet door makes while closing, then soft-close hinges can be your perfect option.
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