Author: Carl Benson

Carl is the founder of Suffolk Latch Company, with a background in engineering and over 20 years' experience in home hardware. He works closely with suppliers and designers to develop quality ironmongery. Read Carl's full bio.

A Complete Guide to Traditional H and HL Hinges

Introduction

H and HL hinges are traditional surface-mounted fittings that have been part of British joinery for centuries.

Recognised for their distinctive H and L shapes, they remain an important feature in period homes and restoration projects.

Originally made by blacksmiths, these hinges provide practical strength and visible decorative detail, making them an authentic alternative to modern recessed butt hinges.

In this guide, we answer common questions about H and HL hinges, including their history, uses, installation, sizes, finishes and care.

Explore our full range of traditional hand-forged hardware for matching latches, bolts and hinges.

Table of Contents

1. What are H and HL hinges?
2. What is the difference between H and HL hinges?
3. What is the history of H and HL hinges?
4. Where should H and HL hinges be used?
5. How do you install traditional H and HL hinges?
6. What finishes and sizes are available?
7. Can H and HL hinges be used outside?
8. Why choose hand-forged H and HL hinges over modern butt hinges?
9. FAQ
10. Conclusion

What Are H and HL Hinges?

H and HL hinges are traditional surface-mounted hinges named after their shapes.

The H hinge resembles the letter H and is used for flush-fitting cupboard doors, small shutters and lightweight internal doors.

The HL hinge adds a longer arm, forming an L shape that spreads the load and helps prevent sagging on larger timber doors.

Both hinge types sit on the face of the door and frame rather than being recessed, so they remain visible as part of the joinery.

Hand forged H hinge in pewter finish

Hand forged H hinge in black beeswax finish

What Is the Difference Between H and HL Hinges?

The main difference is the amount of support each hinge provides.

• H hinges are suited to lighter doors, cupboards, shutters and cabinetry.
• HL hinges have a longer arm that gives extra support for larger or heavier timber doors.

HL hinges are supplied as a handed pair and are designed to be fitted at the top and bottom of the door.

For heavier doors, an additional H hinge can be fitted in the centre to give further support.

The surface-mounted design makes fitting straightforward while keeping the traditional shape visible.

Hand forged HL hinges in pewter finish

Hand forged HL hinges in black beeswax finish

What Is the History of H and HL Hinges?

H and HL hinges can be traced back to 17th-century blacksmithing, evolving from earlier strap hinges used on plank doors.

As joinery methods improved, blacksmiths developed the H design as a more compact hinge for smaller doors and shutters.

The simple symmetrical form made them practical and decorative, especially on oak panelled doors during the Georgian and early Victorian periods.

When factories later began producing cast and pressed hinges, hand-forged versions remained closely associated with cottage joinery and heritage carpentry.

Today, the same patterns are reproduced in hand-forged steel for period homes and restoration work.

Hand forged half butterfly hinge in a pewter finish

Hand forged full butterfly hinge in a black beeswax finish

Where Should H and HL Hinges Be Used?

H and HL hinges are suitable for internal doors, cabinets, shutters and cupboard doors where a decorative surface hinge is wanted.

• H hinges are suitable for cupboards, built-in cabinetry and internal shutters.
• HL hinges are better suited to plank doors, wardrobe doors and larger timber panels.

They are also widely used in barn conversions, cottages and heritage renovations.

They pair well with other traditional fittings such as Suffolk latches, T hinges and door bolts.

Hand forged traditional penny end pull 6 inch in pewter finish

Hand forged traditional penny end pull 6 inch in black beeswax finish

How Do You Install Traditional H and HL Hinges?

Because H and HL hinges are surface-mounted, installation is relatively straightforward.

1. Position the hinge so the knuckle sits in the centre of the shut line between the door edge and the surround.
2. Mark the fixing holes.
3. Drill small pilot holes to help prevent the timber from splitting.
4. Fix the hinge with the supplied dome-head screws.
5. Check that the hinges are vertically aligned and evenly spaced.
6. For heavier doors, fit a handed pair of HL hinges at the top and bottom.
7. If extra support is needed, add a central H hinge.

Because these hinges remain visible after fitting, take time to align them neatly.

What Finishes and Sizes Are Available?

At Suffolk Latch Company, our traditional H and HL hinges are made from mild steel and available in two finishes.

• Black beeswax: A low-sheen black finish applied over a protective base, with natural wax added before dispatch.
• Pewter patina: A silver-grey plated finish that highlights the hammer marks and texture.

H hinges are available in 4 inch and 7 inch sizes.

The 4 inch hinge is suited to cabinets and smaller doors, while the 7 inch version offers more support for full-sized internal doors.

HL hinges are available in 4 inch, 7 inch and 9 inch sizes.

The 4 inch model suits small shutters and cabinetry, while the 7 inch and 9 inch versions provide extra support for larger doors.

Traditional privacy cupboard latch in pewter finish

Traditional privacy cupboard latch in black beeswax finish

Can H and HL Hinges Be Used Outside?

Standard beeswax and pewter hinges are designed for indoor use only.

The beeswax finish offers limited protection against moisture and will oxidise if exposed to damp conditions.

Pewter provides slightly better resistance, but it is still not recommended for exposed outdoor use.

These finishes may be suitable in a heavily sheltered porch or covered area, although some surface oxidation may still occur over time.

Why Choose Hand-Forged H and HL Hinges Over Modern Butt Hinges?

Hand-forged H and HL hinges reflect traditional design and blacksmithing skill.

Modern butt hinges are discreet and suitable for many contemporary doors, but they do not offer the same visible period detail.

H and HL hinges are surface-mounted, so the shape remains part of the finished door.

For traditional interiors, restorations and conversions, they provide historical detail that suits cottage doors, shutters and fitted joinery.

FAQ

Do H and HL Hinges Need to Be Recessed?

No. They are surface-mounted, so they do not require morticing into the timber.

Are H and HL Hinges Reversible?

H hinges can usually be fitted to either left- or right-hung doors.

HL hinges are supplied as handed pairs, designed so the long arm sits parallel to the short edge of the door for a balanced traditional appearance.

Can I Use Both H and HL Hinges on the Same Door?

Yes. Fitting an H hinge at the top and an HL hinge at the bottom was a common method in traditional joinery.

For heavier doors, use a handed pair of HL hinges at the top and bottom, with an additional H hinge in the centre for extra support.

Conclusion

H and HL hinges are practical, recognisable fittings within traditional ironmongery.

Their design provides strength, stability and visible period detail, making them well suited to period homes, conversions and restoration projects.

Available in beeswax and pewter finishes, they are a good choice for internal doors, cupboards, shutters and heritage joinery.

Explore our complete collection of H and HL hinges and discover the wider range of hand-forged door hardware for your restoration project.

External Link

Advice from Historic England on door furniture and heritage doors