What Is a Piano Hinge Used For?
May 2022
If you are unsure if a piano hinge is the right hinge choice for you, read our introductory guide to get acquainted with common uses for this popular type of hinge.
An introduction to piano hinges
Piano hinges, also known as continuous hinges, are a common hinge used in a range of applications where hinges need to be able to open to 270 degrees or more, and it is beneficial to have an even weight distribution across the length of the hinge, such as in the case of a piano lid.
Read our ultimate guide to continuous hinges.
The piano hinge consists of two leaves with knuckles, joined by a pin which is threaded through the knuckles, allowing them to open almost completely.
What are piano hinges used for?
Common uses of piano hinges – aside from on pianos – include:
Internal and external doors – Piano hinges are commonly used for internal and external doors due to their appearance and durability.
Fire doors and security doors – Known for their strength, piano hinges are often used on fire doors as they can safely take large weights and continue to perform optimally.
Artist and designer desks – A number of creative endeavours require a desk which can be laid flat and raised at an angle. Piano hinges are a good choice for artists, architects, and designers to allow a complete range of movement for the angle of their workspace.
Workbenches and toolboxes – Workbenches and toolboxes are often fitted with piano hinges to spread the impact of continual use along the entire length of the hinge. Toolboxes for example are likely to be regularly flipped open 180 degrees; should two smaller, separate hinges be used in this application they would likely fail in a shorter space of time.
Storage boxes – Heavy lidded storage boxes such as chests, blanket boxes and crates may use piano hinges for the same reason. The movement of a large lid weight should be evenly distributed along the length of the hinge to minimise impact and prolong hinge life.
Piano hinge considerations
A wide variety of piano hinges are available on the market, and you will need to decide a few things before you make your purchase. This type of hinge comes with a range of options for example:
Finish – For example satin polish, bright polish, chrome, and self-colour
Material – For example mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium and brass
Gauge – This can vary but a rough guide to domestic and industrial piano hinges would be roughly 0.7mm to 5.0mm
Holes – Choose from no holes, in-line holes and off-set holes
Open width – Think about how far the hinge needs to open. This varies but a rough guide would be 25mm to 152mm
Length – Piano hinges are designed to run the length/width of the furniture in question, so be sure to measure carefully
Specialist piano hinges
For jobs where standard piano hinges don’t quite fit the remit, you may find the solution in architectural piano hinges which offer a standard and interleaf range. If you can’t find what you are looking for, speak to Cooke Brothers about our custom hinge manufacturing service.
FAQs about piano hinges
Are piano hinges strong?
Piano hinges are known for their strength and durability. Available in light, medium and heavy duty, there is a piano hinge to suit almost any application.
Can you cut piano hinges to size?
Yes. Piano hinges can be cut to your exact requirements using a cut to length hinge service such as the one offered here at Cooke Brothers.
Where do you put a piano hinge?
You can use a piano hinge on the inside or outside of many applications such as cabinetry projects, but usually a piano hinge is fitted to the inside of the piece, or in the case of a door, between the door and the frame where it is largely hidden from sight.
Are piano hinges waterproof?
The water resistance of your piano hinge depends on the material it is made of. If you need a waterproof piano hinge consider our specialist marine hinge range, which have been specially designed to withstand the effects of saltwater and chemicals.
What’s the difference between a butt hinge and a piano hinge?
When you first think of a hinge, what probably springs to mind is what is commonly known as a butt hinge. It’s a few inches long with a couple of holes in it, and you might use two or three on any given application. Piano hinges are also known as continuous hinges because they continue from one end of the application to the other. This helps distribute weight more effectively meaning piano hinges are often more durable than butt hinges, which have to take the same pressure and wear across a much smaller area.
Looking for more information?
We hope this information has answered any questions you have about what piano hinges are used for. For more information on piano hinges read our Ultimate Guide to Continuous Hinges.
