When it comes to remodeling existing structures it’s probably no surprise that you [occasionally] have to settle for second best…unless you have an unlimited budget of course. But then again, if you’ve got that much money, why are you remodeling something in the first place!
It’s also probably no surprise that making things fit in an existing space can quickly become a game of inches and one of the more common areas where inches get to be a challenge is with existing doors and door frames.
Many old houses (especially the Victorians in Grand Rapids’ Heritage Hill) were originally built with smaller openings than the more modern structures of today, but don’t worry if you happen to own one of them because there is a solution.
One of the solutions that is often overlooked in solving a design is the type of hardware available, and one of the most versatile types out there is the offset (or swing clear) hinge. This little beauty can literally save hundreds or even thousands of dollars on your project.
When you just HAVE to have a wider opening to that closet or bathroom or hallway, and you don’t want the expense (or mess) of putting in a new header, consider using an offset hinge. You can get them at just about any hardware store (Rylee’s Ace Hardware comes to mind) but like any other piece of hardware, make sure you give consideration to what kind of material and what kind of finish you need. Better yet, take one of your old hinges to the store with you so your sales rep can do a better job matching your existing finish.
The beauty of the offset hinge is that it allows the door to swing completely clear of the frame. Basically, you gain about 2 more inches of space without having to change the opening at all! That can mean a world of difference when it comes time to moving furniture or appliances thru the opening.
So the next time you think you need a bigger opening, consider changing out the hardware in lieu of the door itself…it just might be one of the best choices you ever made!
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Choices are the hinges of destiny. ~ Attributed to both Edwin Markham and Pythagoras
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