A butt hinge, often referred to in shorthand as a “butt”, is a hinge that is mortised into both the edge of a door and the door frame. When most people think of a hinge, a butt hinge is usually the first type of hinge that comes to mind. When installed, the leaves of the hinge sit flush with the surfaces they’re attached to, creating a clean, minimal profile while allowing the door to pivot smoothly. These hinges are among the most commonly used types for full-sized residential and commercial doors.
A traditional butt hinge shown in a Satin Nickel finish.
How Does a Butt Hinge Work?
Butt hinges are composed of two rectangular leaves, one attached to the edge of the door, the other to the frame, connected by a central pin. When the door opens, the two plates pivot around this pin. To allow the hinge to sit flush, a mortise (a shallow pocket) is routed or chiseled into the wood of both the door and the frame.
This flush installation reduces visible gaps and ensures a more stable and aligned door swing. Butt hinges can have removable or fixed pins, depending on whether you want easy door removal or added security.
Butt Hinge Materials and Finishes
Most butt hinges are made of steel, brass, or stainless steel. The material you choose affects both durability and corrosion resistance. For example, solid brass offers classic appeal and resists rust, while stainless steel is ideal for coastal or humid environments. Common finishes include satin nickel, polished brass, oil-rubbed bronze, and black, helping the hinge blend in or stand out depending on your style preferences.
Common Uses for Butt Hinges
- Interior and exterior doors
- Cabinets and built-in furniture (scaled-down versions)
- Entryways and gates
- Fire-rated commercial doors (with heavy-duty variants)
How to Choose the Right Butt Hinge Size
Standard butt hinges for doors are typically 3.5", 4", or 4.5" tall, with a width that matches the door thickness and frame design. A general rule is:
- Use 3.5" hinges for doors up to 1-3/8" thick
- Use 4" hinges for doors up to 1-3/4" thick
- Use 4.5" hinges for heavier or taller doors (e.g., 90"+)
The number of hinges per door typically depends on height: two for shorter doors, three for standard, and four for extra-tall or heavy doors.
Quick Tip from the Experts
If you're replacing an existing door hinge, measure the height, width, and corner radius (square or rounded). For new installations, consider ball bearing butt hinges for smoother operation and reduced wear, especially on heavy or high-use doors.
