How to choose shed door hinges

Although shed door hinges make up such a tiny proportion of your shed building materials, they are an essential element that can enhance your enjoyment and use of your shed immensely. First of all, hinges can be used as a decorative item to add something unique to your doors. Then you need to make sure you install them correctly because if you don't, you'll constantly have a headache every time you try to open and close the doors.

There are also a number of different door hinges to choose from, depending on where and how you want to position them. This can have an impact on the security of your shed, with concealed hinges being the most secure and unable to be removed from the outside.

Even if you're buying a prefabricated shed or kit with everything included, you can still discard the standard hinges and add your own.

Here's a guide to choosing, buying and sourcing shed door hinges, giving you everything you need to make the right decision about one of your most important pieces of shed hardware.

Types of shed door hinges

Strap Hinges: these are the most common type of hinge used on sheds. Basically they have a long piece of metal that extends about a foot across the door. This is then connected to a small metal component on the door frame, which completes the hinge and allows the door to swing. They're very easy to install, but are the least secure as they can easily be unscrewed and the door removed from the outside.

Butt Hinges: this type of hinge consists of two metal leaves which are connected by a steel joint. The leaves can either be surface mounted or recessed into the door and door frame. This kind of hinge is much more secure than strap hinges, but make sure it comes with a non-removable pin so that thieves cannot remove it and take out the door so easily. Also make sure the steel butt joint is made of stainless steel to prevent rust.

Spring Hinges: a type of butt hinge with an integral spring that closes the door once it's been opened. This is really useful if you have a big garden to keep pets and wildlife out of the shed, especially when you have your arms full of tools or materials. Just make sure you don't get locked inside with an automatic lock on your door.

Concealed Hinges: the most security conscious type of hinge, also known as an invisible hinge. From the front of the door the entire hinge is concealed, being hidden inside the door and frame. Much more difficult to install, with the extra woodwork involved, but it's virtually impossible for a burglar to remove the door without physically cutting it down. Concealed hinges may be more expensive but they're also more weather resistant, being hidden inside the door away from the elements.

Buying shed door hinges

The typical shed door hinge is a zinc coated, standard shape that serves its purpose and is relatively inexpensive to buy. You can find these in most hardware stores, plus you'll find plenty online. Many large DIY online stores, such as Home Depot, sell shed hardware kits that have everything you'll need in one pack including hinges, door latch, window fasteners and all the fixings needed to attach them.

The next alternative is to buy black resin coated hinges, which give a nice finish to your shed and are very rust resistant. Once again, kits are available in this finish.

Or you could spend some time looking for something completely unique to add an individual stamp to you shed. You can find hinges made in pretty much any shape, with extremely ornate details that extend into the door and add some character. Designs such as a Fleur de Lyes or an ancient castle theme can really look stylish on the front of a shed door.

The final option when it comes to shed door hinges is to search for antique pieces from sites such as Ebay. You might find a hinge from a medieval castle or an ancient fortress, giving your shed something completely unique that's rooted in history. Just make sure it's stood the test of time and won't break easily!