Concealed hinges look modern and tidy — with the window shut you can't see them at all. It's a solution more and more customers ask about, especially in newer builds. We have a healthy reservation about them, though, and in this article we honestly explain why we usually recommend the proven visible hinges. It's not a matter of looks, but of durability and servicing.

Concealed hinges — the advantages

The biggest asset of concealed hinges is the look. They hide inside the frame, so the window looks clean and minimalist — which suits modern architecture. Another plus is the absence of visible parts that can get dirty over time. For some customers the aesthetics are reason enough to choose them.

Why we have reservations about them

Our rule is simple: we don't introduce solutions that may lead to a shorter life or more frequent servicing. In our view, concealed hinges are more problematic than visible ones. In practice that means more potential service visits, and each such visit is a cost and a nuisance — both for the customer and for us.

The question of servicing and installation

With concealed hinges, rehanging the sash after removing it can be harder — you have to line up the mechanism precisely, often with two people. A visible hinge is simpler in this respect: you lift off, hook on, push in the pin and you're done. When a window needs servicing, a simpler mechanism means a faster and cheaper repair — sometimes the difference between sending one worker and two.

Our recommendation

If all you care about is the look of a modern window, concealed hinges are an option — and we'll honestly set out their drawbacks. In most cases, though, we recommend visible hinges as the more durable and easier-to-maintain solution. We'd rather your windows worked flawlessly for years than looked good at the cost of more frequent repairs.

Frequently asked questions

How do concealed hinges differ from visible ones?

Concealed ones hide in the frame and are invisible when the window is shut. Visible ones are simpler in construction and easier to service.

Do concealed hinges break down more often?

In our view they're more problematic and need more careful servicing. That's why we recommend visible hinges by default.

When is it worth choosing concealed hinges?

Mainly when a minimalist look for the window is the priority. We always set out the drawbacks of this solution too.

Have questions about the hardware in your windows? We'll advise on a solution that combines looks with durability. Write in for a quote.