Traditional H and HL Hinges: A Complete Guide to Heritage Joinery

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 alike to develop quality ironmongery that stands the test of time. Read my full bio.

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 hand-forged by blacksmiths, these hinges combine practical strength with decorative value, offering an authentic alternative to modern recessed butt hinges.

In this guide, we answer common questions about H and HL hinges — from their history and uses to installation and care — to help you choose the right type for your home.

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?

What are H and HL hinges?

H and HL hinges are traditional surface-mounted hinges named after their distinctive shapes. The H hinge resembles the letter “H” and is designed for flush-fitting cupboard doors, small shutters, and lightweight internal doors. The HL hinge adds a horizontal arm, forming an “L” shape that provides extra strength and prevents sagging on heavier timber doors.

Both hinge types are surface-mounted, meaning they sit on the face of the door and frame rather than being recessed, allowing them to remain visible as a decorative feature 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 between the two is in their level of support:

• H hinges are ideal for lighter or smaller doors that sit flush within their frame.
• HL hinges have a longer arm extending downward from the centre joint, which spreads the load and offers greater stability for heavier doors.

Hand-forged H and HL hinges reflect traditional design and period authenticity. The HL hinge is supplied as a handed pair, designed to be fitted at both the top and bottom of the door, with the long arm running parallel to the short edge for a balanced appearance. For particularly heavy doors, an additional H hinge can be fitted in the centre to provide extra support. Their surface-mounted design allows for straightforward installation while showcasing the decorative shape.

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, where they evolved from earlier strap hinges used on heavy plank doors. As joinery techniques improved, blacksmiths developed the H design to create a compact hinge suited to smaller doors and shutters.

Their simple, symmetrical form made them practical and attractive, especially on oak panelled doors during the Georgian and early Victorian eras. Later, when factories began producing cast and pressed hinges, the hand-forged variants remained the hallmark of heritage carpentry and cottage joinery.

Today, the same designs are reproduced in hand-forged steel, maintaining their period authenticity while offering modern build quality.

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 a variety of internal doors, cabinets, shutters, and cupboard doors, where a decorative surface hinge is desired.

• H hinges are perfect for cupboards, built-in cabinetry, and internal shutters.
• HL hinges are better suited for plank doors, wardrobe doors, or larger timber panels, where their extra arm prevents droop.

They are also widely used in barn conversions, cottages, and heritage renovations, complementing other hand-forged fittings such as Suffolk latches, T-hinges, and door bolts for a consistent period look.

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 straightforward:

1. Position the hinge so that the knuckle (central pin) sits in the centre of the shut line between the edge of the door and the door surround.
2. Mark the fixing holes and drill small pilot holes — this helps prevent the wood from splitting and makes fitting easier with traditional slotted screws.
3. Fix the hinge with the dome-head screws provided.
4. Ensure the hinges are vertically aligned and evenly spaced.
5. For heavier doors, fit a pair of HL hinges — one at the top and one at the bottom — for balanced support. If additional strength is required, add a central H hinge.

Because these hinges are always visible, take care to align them neatly for a balanced and professional finish.

What finishes and sizes are available?

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

• Black beeswax: A classic low-sheen finish applied over a protective paint base. Each hinge is coated in natural wax to prevent oxidisation during storage and can be buffed after fitting for a subtle sheen.
• Pewter patina: A silver-grey plated finish that enhances hammer marks and texture while offering slight resistance to rust in humid conditions.

H hinges are available in two sizes: 4-inch and 7-inch. The 4-inch hinge is ideal for cabinets and smaller doors, while the 7-inch version offers greater strength for full-sized internal doors.

HL hinges come in three sizes: 4-inch, 7-inch, and 9-inch. The 4-inch model suits small shutters and cabinetry, whereas the larger 7-inch and 9-inch versions provide extra support for heavier or 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?

As with all our hand-forged products, standard beeswax and pewter hinges are designed for indoor use only. The beeswax finish offers minimal protection against moisture and will oxidise if exposed to damp conditions. Pewter provides slightly better resistance but is still not recommended for outdoor use. These finishes may be suitable in a well-sheltered or heavily porched area, though some surface oxidation may still occur over time due to humidity and environmental moisture.

Why choose hand-forged H and HL hinges over modern butt hinges?

Hand-forged H and HL hinges reflect traditional design and craftsmanship. While modern butt hinges provide uniformity and are well suited to contemporary settings, H and HL hinges are ideal for restoration projects or period-style renovations. Their surface-mounted design makes installation straightforward and keeps the decorative shape visible once fitted.

Modern butt hinges are more discreet and suited to contemporary doors, but they lack the character and visible craftsmanship of forged ironwork. For traditional interiors, restorations, and conversions, hand-forged hinges offer not only durability but also the historic detailing that completes a period look.

FAQ

Conclusion

H and HL hinges represent one of the most practical and recognisable forms of traditional ironmongery. Their design offers strength, stability, and a distinct heritage appearance ideal for period homes, conversions, and restoration projects. Available in beeswax, pewter, and Armor Coat finishes, they provide flexibility for both internal and external applications.

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

External Link

Advice from Historic England on door-furniture and heritage doors