You don’t always have to install multiple standard hinges. An alternative solution is to use a single piano hinge.
Also known as continuous hinges, piano hinges are characterized by a long length. They are available in different materials, such as stainless steel, cold-rolled steel and aluminum. Regardless of material, though, all piano hinges run the length of the door or object on which they are installed. Below are several scenarios in which a single piano hinge may prove better than multiple standard hinges.
Prioritize Alignment
For precise alignment, look no further than piano hinges. You don’t have to worry about one hinge being offset from the other hinges. With standard hinges, even minor misalignment issues such as this can lead to problems like binding. A piano hinge eliminates alignment issues by offering a single, uniform pivot line across the entire door or object.
Heavy Doors
Piano hinges are ideal for heavy doors. They can handle heavier loads than standard hinges without sagging and failing. Standard hinges support loads at fixed intervals — the locations where they are mounted. Between these mounting points, the door carries stress-related load. A single piano hinge can solve this problem by distributing the weight of the door from the top to the bottom.
Wide Doors
In addition to heavy doors, piano hinges are an excellent choice for wide doors. Some doors are just 24 inches wide, but others are up to 36 inches wide. There are even specialty doors and gates that can measure over 50 inches. For wide doors such as this, you may want to use a piano hinge. It will better support the door’s weight to ensure a smooth opening and closing action.
Thin Materials
Another instance in which piano hinges are useful is when dealing with thin materials. Most doors are relatively thick, making them suitable for standard hinges. Panels made of sheet metal or similar thin materials, though, may stress when opened. Thin materials can deform under localized force. A piano hinge can prevent deformation by spreading the fastening points across the entire panel.
Quieter Operation
In-high traffic environments, standard hinges can be noisy. They can loosen over time, resulting in lateral movement that manifests in the form of noise. Piano hinges offer a solution. They typically feature a closely spaced knuckle that stabilizes the pivot point. This reduces side play while simultaneously minimizing noise.