Different Types of Pivot Hinges

Pivot hinges consistently top the list of favorites when it comes to door hardware. Whether choosing hardware for industrial settings or commercial spaces, these door hinges stand out as a popular choice due to their sleek design and functionality. But what exactly is a pivot hinge, and how does it differ from traditional hinges?

In this blog, we’ll explore what pivot hinges are, what are their benefits, and delve into five different types of pivot hinges available in the market.

What Is a Pivot Hinge?

A pivot hinge is a type of door hardware used for installing doors, windows, and some types of furniture. Their unique design allows them to swing open or closed. Unlike traditional hinges that are mounted on the side of a door to rotate on a single axis, pivot hinges are affixed at the top and bottom, allowing the door to pivot around a single point or axis.

This design not only offers a cleaner aesthetic but also adds to the versatility of door movement. With a pivot hinge, doors can seamlessly integrate into a space, creating an open and flowing environment, while larger door sizes can also open freely without obstruction.

What Are Pivot Hinges Used For?

Pivot hinges are used for large and heavy doors, such as entryway doors, lobbies, and conference rooms because they distribute the weight more evenly than traditional hinges. This helps reduce stress on the door frame and increases the door's durability. Some common uses for pivot hinges include hidden or flush doors, where the door swings and blends into the wall when closed. They are also ideal for heavy doors because the weight is supported by both the floor and the top of the frame, rather than just the side.

Pivot hinges are used in revolving doors, allowing them to rotate around a central axis, and in shower doors, providing a clean, modern look with easy access. These hinges are also found in modern interior doors, where their unique design adds sophistication to the space.

Likewise, pivot hinges are used in furniture, such as rotating bookcases or swivel television stands. In general, pivot hinges are valued for their stability, strength, and design flexibility, enabling architects and designers to create large, heavy doors that might not be possible with standard hinges.

Benefits of Pivot Hinges

Pivot hinges provide several significant advantages over conventional hinges. Let’s explore some of the primary benefits of these innovative door hardware solutions:

●   Weight Distribution: Pivot hinges help distribute the door’s weight evenly across the floor and frame. This reduces stress on the door and its hardware, making them ideal for heavy or oversized doors and helps prevent warping or damage over time.

●  Aesthetic Appeal: Pivot hinges are less visible than traditional hinges, giving doors a cleaner, more modern look. They can even be hidden inside the door, creating a seamless and sleek design, which is perfect for minimalist styles.

●  Design Flexibility: These hinges allow for larger and heavier doors, such as those made of glass or large wood panels. This flexibility gives architects and designers more creative freedom to design striking doors for both residential and commercial spaces.

●   Smooth Movement: Pivot hinges allow a door to swing smoothly in both directions, which is useful in busy areas where efficient traffic flow is important. This feature makes them a practical choice for high-traffic spaces, like offices or stores.

●   Improved Accessibility: Many pivot hinges meet accessibility standards, making doors easier to open for people with disabilities. This is particularly useful in public buildings, offices, or homes, where easy access is important.

●   Lower Maintenance: Pivot hinges generally require less maintenance than traditional hinges. Their design reduces wear and tear, so there is less need for frequent lubrication or adjustments, which can lower long-term upkeep costs.

●  Increased Safety: Because they can support heavier doors, pivot hinges are often used in commercial settings to secure large entry doors. Their precise movement also reduces the risk of pinching or jamming, making them a safer option for both people and property.

Types of Pivot Hinges

Pivot hinges come in various designs, each tailored for specific applications and aesthetic preferences. Here are five common types of pivot hinges:

 Offset Pivot Hinges

Offset pivot hinges are mounted at the top and bottom of the door with an offset from the door's edge. This configuration allows the door to swing open in either direction while spreading out the weight evenly.

This type is widely available from brands like Accentra, Norton, Hager, and others. It is particularly well-suited for heavy doors in commercial buildings, such as entry doors or double doors, where durability and functionality are key. This style of hinge really picks up the demand in high-traffic areas.

Center-Hung Pivot Hinges

Center-hung pivot hinges are installed in the middle of the door thickness, allowing the door to rotate around a central axis. This design is often used when a clean, symmetrical look is desired.

They are perfect for interior doors in homes and offices. Brands like ABH, Glynn Johnson, and Rixon stand out for offering these hinges, which bring a sophisticated touch while keeping the door easy to use.

Double Action Spring Pivot Hinge

Double-action spring pivot hinges, with a built-in spring mechanism, let the door swing open in both directions and automatically close. This feature is especially useful in spaces like kitchens, restaurants, or busy commercial environments where hands-free operation is beneficial.

Their self-closing action kicks in to ensure the door stays shut, boosting privacy and security. These hinges are commonly available from manufacturers like Bommer, Best, Air Louvers, and Corbin Russwin.

Cabinet Pivot Hinges

Cabinet pivot hinges, available from brands like JL Industries, LE Johnson, Lund, and Bradley, are designed specifically for cabinetry. These hinges allow cabinet doors to swing open while blending in seamlessly with the cabinet structure, creating a minimalist aesthetic.

These hinges are manufactured to handle the weight of cabinet doors while providing smooth operation, which makes them a popular choice for modern cabinetry designs.

Gravity Pivot Hinges

Gravity pivot hinges rely on gravity to swing the door shut after it’s been opened. These self-closing hinges are perfect for gates and doors where it’s important to ensure the door stays closed for safety or security reasons.

Brands like LCN, LE Johnson, Norton, and Pemko bring out these types of hinges, which are commonly used in outdoor settings or for doors leading into restricted areas, offering a simple, effective solution without the need for complex mechanical systems.

Electrified Pivot hinges

Electrified pivots and advanced commercial door hardware are revolutionizing modern door systems by delivering superior functionality compared to traditional hinges. We provide electrified pivots from top-tier manufacturers like Ives, Schlage Electronics, ABH, and Rixson. These innovative solutions offer exceptional door stability while seamlessly incorporating power transfer capabilities. This integration supports electronic access control systems, including exit devices and magnetic locks, enhancing both security and operational efficiency in commercial spaces.

Heavy Duty Pivot Hinges

Heavy-duty pivot hinges are essential components widely used in applications such as gates, doors, machinery, and industrial equipment. Designed with robust mechanical parts, they are built to handle significant weight while enabling smooth rotation or swiveling around a central axis. Typically crafted from durable materials like steel or stainless steel, these pivots are engineered for withstanding heavy loads, capable of long-lasting performance, and frequent operation without premature failure or wear.

 Intermediate Pivot Hinges

Intermediate pivot hinges are crucial for supporting tall and heavy doors in commercial settings. They provide central reinforcement to prevent bending or sagging over time, ensuring smooth operation and long-term stability. By maintaining proper alignment, these pivots help the door retain its functionality and aesthetic appeal. We offer durable, fire-rated intermediate pivots designed to meet a variety of needs, ensuring you can find the ideal solution for your specific application.

Top and Bottom Pivot Hinges

Top and bottom pivot hinge sets are essential for ensuring reliable and durable door installations in commercial spaces. We provide a wide selection of pivot sets from trusted industry brands, including Hager, Rixson, Ives, Stanley, and ABH. Available in multiple styles, finishes, and handed configurations, these pivot sets are designed to deliver smooth, secure door operation tailored to any commercial application. 

Rack and Pinion Pivot hinges

Rack and pinion pivots offer a cutting-edge door pivoting solution featuring a concealed pivot design. This innovative mechanism allows doors to open smoothly and effortlessly, eliminating the need for visible hinges and creating a clean, modern look. As the door swings open, the pivot point shifts away from the door jamb thanks to a pinion gliding along a rack. This system delivers both a sleek aesthetic and seamless functionality, making it an excellent choice for hidden or minimalist door installations.

Installation Considerations for Pivot Hinges

When choosing pivot hinges, proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. While some DIY enthusiasts may feel confident undertaking the task of installing pivot hinges, it's advisable to consult a professional installer. The precise alignment and positioning of the hinges are critical for smooth operation, and a skilled person can ensure that everything is mounted correctly.

Consider the material of the door when selecting pivot hinges. Heavier materials, such as solid wood or metal, will require more robust hinges to support their weight. Conversely, lighter materials may be more suited to lighter-duty pivot hinges. It’s important to ensure compatibility between the door frames and pivot hinges.

Some frames may require modifications to accommodate pivot hinge installation, especially if they were originally designed for traditional hinges. If your installation is in a public space or requires ADA compliance, verify that the chosen pivot hinges meet these standards, including considerations for handle height and clear opening width.

Cost Considerations

When planning for the installation of pivot hinges, it’s essential to consider the associated costs. While pivot hinges may have a higher initial cost compared to traditional hinges, their durability, and low maintenance requirements can lead to long-term savings. Carefully weigh the initial investment against longevity and reduced upkeep costs.

Hiring a professional installer can increase the overall cost, but it's essential for optimal performance, particularly with heavier or larger doors. Obtain quotes from multiple contractors to find a balance between cost and quality. If you opt for specialized pivot hinges, be mindful of the availability and cost of replacement parts and accessories.

Some pivot hinges may require specific components for installation or maintenance, which can impact overall costs. Additionally, consider the budget implications of additional features like self-closing mechanisms or specialized finishes. These enhancements can elevate the functionality and aesthetics of your doors but will also increase the total cost.

Conclusion

Pivot hinges are an effective and visually appealing solution for door installations in various environments. They offer key advantages, such as supporting heavy doors, enabling minimalist design, and incorporating self-closing mechanisms. Depending on your specific needs, different types of pivot hinges are available to meet both functional and aesthetic requirements.

Users can get in touch with some reliable commercial door hardware suppliers like Qualitydoor.com offering a wide selection of high-quality pivot hinges from trusted manufacturers. All products available with us comply with building codes and standards while improving accessibility and cutting down on maintenance costs.

We understand how important it is to choose the right pivot and offer expert consultation services, helping users pick out the most suitable pivot hinge based on their unique needs. From a diverse range of commercial door pivots, considering other factors, users can make an informed decision that balances out both performance and design. For more information or assistance, reach out to an expert or browse our catalog today.