External door hinges play a pivotal role in building security that’s often overlooked. These seemingly simple components are fundamental to the integrity of your door system and, by extension, the safety of your building.
For industrial, commercial, and high-security residential buildings, selecting the right type of secure external door hinge is paramount.
When it comes to external door hinges, material selection is crucial. Cheaper hinges made of brass with polished or satin chrome coating should be avoided for external use due to their susceptibility to corrosion and potential failure under heavy loads.
For exterior doors, steel hinges are the gold standard. Stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance and strength, making it ideal for withstanding the elements and potential security threats. In the UK, the most common grades of stainless steel used for hinges are:
Door hinges are graded based on several factors according to BS EN 1935:2002, including security, durability, and category of use. The most commonly used grading system in the industry is the Hinge Grade, which ranges from 1 to 14.
For external doors, it’s recommended to use hinges with a minimum grade of 9, with grade 13 being the ideal choice for most applications. Grade 13 hinges are tested for 200,000 cycles and can support door masses up to 120kg, making them suitable for most applications.
The two primary types of hinges to consider for external doors are butt hinges and concealed hinges.
Butt hinges consist of two identical halves connected by a round knuckle, creating a rotary movement. They are the most common type of hinge for external doors and come in several subtypes:
Concealed hinges are becoming increasingly popular due to their aesthetic appeal. They are completely invisible from either side of the door, as they are recessed into the frame and the door. However, they have some limitations:
Secure external door hinges are an important yet often overlooked component of building security. The right choice of hinge can significantly enhance the safety and durability of your doors, whether for industrial, commercial, or high-security residential applications.
At Bradbury Group, we understand the critical role that every component plays in creating a secure environment. Our range of high-security steel doors incorporates the most advanced hinge technologies to ensure maximum protection for your building.
With over 30 years of experience in providing bespoke security solutions across various sectors, including industrial, commercial, and residential, we are uniquely positioned to advise on the most suitable secure external door hinges for your specific needs.
To explore how our expertise in high-security steel doors can enhance your building’s protection, contact Bradbury Group’s team of security specialists today.
