For us, it is important to design mechanisms that make a difference in terms of aesthetics. But also in terms of functionality, of course. Thus, the furniture hinge determines the durability and final aesthetics that we will enjoy.
Emuca offers a wide range of hinges to suit your needs. We have everything from the famous invisible hinge for discreet designs to the hydraulic furniture hinge with a soft and silent closure. Let’s review the different types, when to use each one, and how to install and maintain these parts so that they always work at 100%.
Types of furniture hinges and their applications
Not all projects require the same solution. As we will see, for the project to be successful, you need to choose the most suitable furniture hinges.Hydraulic hinges for furniture
The hydraulic hinge for furniture incorporates a damping system that prevents sudden shocks when closing. This detail provides comfort and prolongs the life of the furniture. In our hinges section, you will find solutions designed for all types of doors, from kitchen to office cabinets. For projects with upward-opening doors, the Agile Smart or Agile One lift-up hinges give you the smooth opening you are looking for, making them perfect for tall kitchen cabinets. And if you are looking for more load capacity, the Altius One lift-up hinge is a safe bet for large cabinets, where the weights to be supported are greater.Concealed hinges
The concealed hinge is perfect when design is a priority. This type of hardware is hidden when the door is closed, providing a clean finish. In minimalist furniture projects or built-in wardrobes, these hinges provide a premium aesthetic. To achieve this impeccable finish, it is worth incorporating accessories such as the Slimwinch cover kit or the Unico cover kit, which greatly improve the overall aesthetics of the furniture. Swing hinges These are less common, as swing hinges allow the door to open in both directions. They are common in commercial spaces or professional kitchens, where quick access is essential. However, in domestic furniture, they are useful for passageways with lightweight doors.
Key factors for choosing the right hinge
1. Door type and weight
A heavy door requires more robust hinges and, in many cases, hydraulic systems to soften the closing action. For example, a tall cabinet with a solid wood door will work better with an Agile Flap compass that supports the weight and also facilitates movement.
2. Aesthetics
For furniture with a clean design, the invisible hinge is the definitive choice. As it is not visible, it allows the finish of the furniture to take centre stage.
3. Functionality
If you are looking for a smooth opening, without noise or banging, go for the hydraulic furniture hinge. In kitchens and bathrooms, where doors are constantly opening and closing, this type of hardware is simply perfect.
Installation: basic steps
Although each model has its own specifications, there are common principles for installing a furniture hinge correctly.
- Precise measurement: before drilling, mark the exact position according to the instructions we always provide.
- Suitable tools: use drill bits of the recommended diameter to avoid gaps.
- Firm assembly: tighten the screws without forcing them, ensuring that the hinge is aligned.
Remember that hinges such as hydraulic hinges allow for tilt and depth adjustments. If you spend a little extra time on this detail, you will have a perfect closure. It is worth the effort.
Maintenance and care your hinges will need
A furniture hinge that is properly installed will last for many years, but basic maintenance is recommended:- Cleaning: prevent dust or grease build-up with a damp cloth.
- Lubrication: in mechanical models, a little lubricant helps to keep the movement smooth.
- Inspection: check from time to time that there is no slack or loose screws.
Common mistakes when choosing furniture hinges
Even experienced professionals make mistakes when selecting a furniture hinge. These mistakes affect the aesthetics and can even reduce the useful life of the furniture. Keep them in mind!1. Not considering the type of opening
Each piece of furniture has a different use. Choosing a standard hinge for a tall kitchen cabinet will cause accessibility problems. So choose what works best for each case. The Agile Smart lift-up hinges or the Agile Flap offer superior opening. So always think about which hinge is used for what you want.2. Ignoring the weight of the door
A heavy door with a low-quality concealed hinge will cause it to sag over time. In such cases, it is better to opt for models that can withstand heavy loads, such as the Altius One lift-up door hinge, designed for heavier loads.3. Not using finishing accessories
Proper installation includes attention to detail. Accessories such as the Unico cover kit or the Slimwinch kit protect the hardware. This equates to a longer service life.4. Installing without following the instructions provided by Emuca
A poorly installed hydraulic hinge for furniture may lose its damping function. Always check the technical instructions provided with each product to ensure a perfect fit. Take a look at our complete collection of hinges and discover the best models from Emuca. Your furniture will be pleasant to use, but it will also have that perfect finish that you will love.
Frequently asked questions about furniture hinges
How do I know how many hinges a specific door needs?
It depends greatly on the weight and height. A standard door up to 90 cm needs two hinges. However, heavier (or taller) doors need three, or even more.
Can hydraulic hinges be installed on any piece of furniture?
Yes, as long as there is space for the mechanism and the door is compatible with the type of opening.
Is the invisible hinge as strong as the traditional one?
Yes, as long as a quality model is chosen and installed correctly.
What maintenance does a hydraulic hinge require?
Basically, cleaning and periodic inspection. It does not require complex adjustments.
Can I combine hydraulic and invisible hinges?
In some designs, yes, but it is important that the system is compatible.
