Hinges are available with different tips. Located at the ends of the barrel — the center formed by the two knuckles — tips serve as decorative accessories. They are essentially caps that cover the ends of the knuckles. While some hinges have steeple or hospital tips, however, others have flat tips.
Overview of Flat-Tip Hinges
Flag-tip hinges are characterized by flat ends. Also known as button-tip hinges, they are a popular end style. Flat-tip hinges feature low-profile tips on the ends of their knuckles. As the name suggests, these tips are flat and mimic the appearance of small buttons.
Benefits of Flat-Tip Hinges
Flat-tip hinges offer several benefits, one of which is aesthetics. They aren’t large or bulky. Rather, flat-tip hinges are sleek and compact. Therefore, you can easily incorporate them into your workspace.
Another benefit of flat-tip hinges is durability. They are available in many of the same materials as other hinges, such as steel, aluminum and brass. Flat-tip hinges, however, feature protective caps on the ends of the barrel, which enhances their durability.
You can also find flat-tip hinges in different finishes. Some of them have a zinc finish, whereas others have an oxide finish. The finish consists of a layer of material that protects the underlying tip material. Even if a hinge tip is made of steel or aluminum, for instance, it may feature a zinc or oxide finish for additional protection from rust and corrosion.
Flat-Tip Hinge Applications
Flat-tip hinges are used in a variety of applications, one of the most common being doors. Most doors are connected to the adjacent with one hinge per 30 vertical hinges, which translates into two to three hinges. Flat-tip hinges are often used when installing doors because of their sleek and low-profile design.
Cabinets may also feature flat-tip doors. With their emphasis on simplicity, flat-tip hinges are ideal for cabinets in the kitchen, bathroom and elsewhere.
Other Common Hinge Tips
In addition to flat tips, you can find hinges with steeple and hospital tips. Steeple-tip hinges are larger and more decorative. They feature a tall and pointed steeple-like shape.
Hospital-tip hinges, on the other hand, feature beveled and rounded tips. They are commonly found in hospitals and other medical facilities. Hospital-tip hinges are designed with an emphasis on safety and security. With their beveled and rounded tips, they are less likely to get caught on objects than other types of hinges.