Where to Buy Metal Cabinet Hinges

Introduction

Metal cabinet hinges are an indispensable hardware item for any kitchen, bathroom, or storage cabinet project. They are what allow the doors and drawers of cabinets to open and close smoothly. Choosing the right metal hinges for your cabinetry is important, as the hinge type, size, and installation method will impact the functionality and aesthetics of your cabinets.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about buying metal cabinet hinges. We’ll discuss the different types of metal cabinet hinges, what to look for when selecting hinges, where to buy quality metal hinges both online and in physical stores, how much metal hinges typically cost, how to install them properly, and how to care for them to ensure years of smooth cabinet operation.

Whether you’re building new cabinets from scratch, replacing old worn-out hinges, or just looking to update the hardware on your current cabinetry, this guide has all the information you need to choose the best metal cabinet hinges and get them installed correctly. Let’s get started!

Types of Metal Cabinet Hinges

There are several different types of cabinet hinges to choose from for various cabinet applications. The most common metal cabinet hinge types include:

Concealed Hinges

These are designed to be hidden from view when the cabinet door is closed. Typically they mount on the inside of the cabinet frame and door, providing a clean exterior look. There are several sub-types:

• Full overlay concealed hinges: Allow the cabinet door to fully overlay the cabinet face frame. No part of the face frame is exposed.
• Partial overlay concealed hinges: Allow the cabinet door to partially overlay the face frame, exposing a portion of the frame.
• Inset concealed hinges: Designed for inset cabinet doors that fit flush within the face frame opening.

Semi-Concealed Hinges

These provide a partially visible hinge style where part of the mechanism is exposed. This creates an architectural look. Common types include:

• Cup hinges: Consist of two circular cups that connect – one screws into the frame, the other into the door.
• Knuckle hinges: Have an L-shaped arm attached to a base plate. The arm fits into a metal socket on the door.
• Pivot hinges: Allow the cabinet door to pivot open and lie flat against the side of the cabinet.

Decorative Hinges

These cabinet hinges have an exposed decorative design and are meant to be seen. Popular options:

• Butt hinges: Feature two rectangular leaves joined by a pin. Can be plain or ornate.
• T-hinges: Shaped like the letter T with a long strap that attaches to the cabinet face.
• HL hinges: Have an H-shaped structure with interlocking straps.

What to Look For When Buying Metal Cabinet Hinges

There are several key factors to evaluate when shopping for metal cabinet hinges:

Hinge Type

Consider the style of your cabinet doors and determine if you want completely concealed, semi-concealed, or decorative hinges before you start shopping. This will narrow down the selection.

Mounting Type

There are three main mounting configurations:

• Mortise: Hinges mount into a recess cut into the door and frame. Most secure.
• Surface: Hinges mount directly onto the frame and door surface. Easiest to install.
• Partial: One hinge leaf mounts into a mortise, the other surface mounts. In-between option.

Material

Most quality metal cabinet hinges are made of sturdy steel or stainless steel. Some may have brass, bronze or nickel plating for corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal.

Motion

Consider how far you want the cabinet door to open. Hinges are available in different opening angles – the most common are 90, 110, and 120 degrees.

Overlay

If using concealed hinges, choose the correct overlay type (full, partial, inset) for your specific cabinet configuration.

Weight Capacity

Select hinges with a weight rating appropriate for your cabinet door size and weight. Standard capacities range from 25 lbs up to 200 lbs.

Adjustability

Many hinges allow adjustments after installation to fine-tune door positioning. Look for vertical, horizontal, depth, and spacing adjustment features.

Ease of Installation

Hinges with mounting plates that attach to the frame and door separately simplify installation. Soft-close hinges also add convenience.

Aesthetics

For exposed hinges, pick a finish and decorative style that matches your cabinet hardware and design vision.

Quality and Durability

Choose reputable hardware brands known for hinge quality. Avoid plastic parts. Stainless steel hinges will provide the most lasting performance.

Where to Buy Metal Cabinet Hinges

You have several good options both online and locally when shopping for metal cabinet hinges:

Online Retailers

• Amazon: Extremely wide selection of name-brand and generic hinges at competitive prices. Offer lots of user reviews.
• Home Depot: Large selection of concealed and decorative hinges from reputable brands. Frequent sales and promotions.
• Lowe’s: Comparable to Home Depot with lots of hinge options and buying guidance. Easy online ordering.
• Rockler: Specialty woodworking store with high-end hinges, concealed hinge jigs, and lots of tips.
• Woodworkers Hardware: Top hinge selection from brands like Blum, Amerock, Liberty, and Stone Mill. Helpful product filters.

Local Hardware Stores

• Ace Hardware: Diverse hinge offerings from trusted manufacturers. Knowledgeable staff for guidance.
• True Value: Great for finding standard butt hinges and vintage style decorative hinges in-store.
• Ferguson: Plumbing supply outlet with many concealed hinges for bath cabinets. Professional consultation.

Cabinetry and Woodworking Shops

• Woodcraft: For specialty hinges like soft-close and tips from woodworking experts.
• Rockler: Along with online, find high-end hinges at retail locations with specialists’ advice.
• Cabinet supplier showrooms: Handle brands like Blum, Amerock, and Liberty. Sales reps can advise on best hinges.

How Much Do Metal Cabinet Hinges Cost?

Like most hardware, metal cabinet hinge prices can vary widely depending on the type, materials, size, adjustments, motion, load capacity, and brand. Here are some typical price ranges:

• Standard exposed butt hinges – $1 – $10 per hinge
• Concealed partial overlay hinges – $5 – $20 per hinge
• Concealed full overlay hinges – $8 – $25 per hinge
• Fancy decorative hinges – $10 – $50 per hinge
• High-end concealed Blum hinges – $20 – $40 per hinge
• Heavy-duty industrial hinges – $40 – $100 per hinge

So for a typical 30″ wall cabinet with two hinges per door, expect to spend $10 – $60 just for the hinges. For a higher-end installation with soft-close concealed hinges, plan on a budget of $60 – $150 for hinges per cabinet.

Factors like load capacity, materials, special features, brand reputation, and buying source will push hinge costs up or down within the typical ranges. Shopping sales at retailers can help cut costs on quality hinges. Buying higher quantities online can also often reduce the per-hinge price.

How to Install Metal Cabinet Hinges

Installing metal cabinet hinges properly is key to getting doors and drawers that operate smoothly. Here are some tips:

Read the Instructions

Closely review the installation guide that comes with your specific hinges for required tools, measurements, and steps.

Allow Proper Clearances

Make sure to leave enough space around the cabinet opening for the hinge type – concealed hinges need more room than butt hinges.

Use a Jig for Concealed Hinges

A drilling jig ensures precise positioning of the mortise holes for concealed hinge cups. This step is critical.

Pre-drill Holes

Drill pilot holes before driving screws into any material to prevent splitting, especially in particle board.

Use Careful Measurements

Measure meticulously and mark all hinge positions. Equal spacing is key for proper cabinet door alignment.

Check for Hinge Alignment

Before fully tightening screws, test fit doors and drawers to confirm proper hinge positioning and smooth motion.

Avoid Overtightening

Use a low-torque drill setting and tighten screws just until snug. Overtightening can damage the hardware or cabinet materials.

Following the hinge manufacturer’s instructions combined with extra care at each step will get your metal cabinet hinges installed successfully. Ask a woodworking expert for help if needed.

Caring for Metal Cabinet Hinges

With proper installation and ongoing care, quality metal cabinet hinges should provide years of smooth, reliable opening and closing motion. Here are some metal hinge maintenance tips:

Lubricate Periodically

Use a lubricant like silicone spray on the hinge knuckle periodically to prevent squeaking and sticking. Wipe away excess.

Tighten Loose Screws

Check hinge screws every couple of years and tighten any that have loosened using a screwdriver. Don’t overtighten.

Clean Gently

Wipe hinges with a soft cloth dampened with mild soap and water to remove grease and dirt buildup. Avoid abrasive cleaners.

Adjust if Needed

Many concealed hinges allow adjustments. Tweak them to realign doors and drawers if they become crooked or misaligned over time.

Replace Damaged Hinges

If hinges break, bend severely, or stop working smoothly, don’t try to force them. Simply replace damaged hinges with new ones.

With occasional inspection and cleaning, your quality metal cabinet hinges should operate smoothly for many years before needing replacement. Avoid deferred hinge maintenance.

Commonly Asked Questions About Metal Cabinet Hinges

Some of the most frequently asked questions people have when shopping for metal cabinet hinges include:

How do you determine the correct size metal hinges for a cabinet?

Choose hinges appropriate for your cabinet door’s weight and width. Standard hinges support 25-40 lbs for doors under 20″. Go with heavier duty hinges for larger/heavier doors.

How many hinges should be used for each cabinet door?

For smaller doors under 20″ wide, two hinges are sufficient. For medium doors up to 30″ wide, use three hinges. For larger doors, four or more hinges provides the best support.

What tools do you need to install metal cabinet hinges?

Most hinge types can be installed with basic tools – drill, screwdriver, tape measure, carpenter’s square, hammer. Concealed hinges often require a specialty jig for mortise cuts.

How do you adjust metal cabinet hinges after installation?

Many modern concealed hinges have slight adjustments built in for calibrating door position. Simply follow the product instructions to tweak vertical, horizontal or depth alignment as needed.

How do you fix a sagging cabinet door caused by loose hinges?

Remove door, tighten any loose hinge screws, then rehang door and confirm proper alignment. If sagging continues, replace old worn-out hinges with heavier duty new ones.

Can you change the handing and swing direction of metal cabinet door hinges?

It depends on the hinge type. Butt and pivot hinges allow reversibility. Concealed hinges are typically configured for either left or right closing.

What is the most durable metal for cabinet hinges?

Stainless steel hinges provide the greatest durability and longevity. Steel hinges with nickel, chrome or brass plating also offer good corrosion resistance for long-term performance.

How do you clean metal cabinet hinges?

Use a soft cloth with mild soap and water to gently wipe away dirt and grease buildup on hinges every few months. Wipe the hinges dry. Remove tarnish on brass hinges with brass polish.

We hope these commonly asked metal cabinet hinge questions and answers have provided helpful guidance for your project!

Conclusion

Installing high-quality metal cabinet hinges is one of the best ways to make your cabinet doors and drawers operate smoothly while giving your cabinetry a clean, seamless look. Use this guide to demystify the selection process and set yourself up for hinge hardware success.

Knowing the different types of metal hinges, from exposed butt hinges to concealed models, will allow you to pick the perfect design for your specific cabinets. Shopping online retailers or local hardware stores and woodworking shops will help you source durable, adjustable hinges at reasonable prices to meet your budget.

With careful installation and periodic maintenance, quality metal cabinet hinges from reputable brands will provide many years of service. So take the time to choose components with the ideal style, load capacity, motion, durability, and ease of installation for your next carpentry project. Your beautiful cabinet doors will open and close with a satisfying, flawless motion when you get the hinges right!