Are ball bearing hinges suitable for heavy doors?

Yes. Ball bearing hinges reduce friction in the knuckle and are commonly chosen for heavier or high-traffic doors where smoother movement and durability matter.

Which size hinge should I choose: 76mm or 102mm?

76mm (3 inch) hinges are typically used for 35mm internal doors, while 102mm (4 inch) hinges are commonly used for 44mm external and fire doors.

Do ball bearing hinges help doors close more quietly?

Yes. The bearings reduce metal-to-metal friction which can help create a smoother action and quieter closing compared with standard hinges.

Ball Bearing Hinges

Premium Ball Bearing Hinges for Internal, External & Fire Doors

Explore UK-ready ball bearing door hinges engineered for smooth action, long life and quieter closing on timber doors — from internal rooms to external entrances and BS EN 1935 fire doors.

Why Choose Ball Bearing Hinges?

A ball bearing hinge uses small steel bearings within the knuckle to reduce friction and wear. Ideal for heavy internal timber doors, high-use doorways and entrance doors, they provide smoother, quieter movement and greater durability.

Sizes, Grades & Finishes

76mm (3") — for 35mm internal wooden doors.
102mm (4") — for 44mm external and fire doors.
Fire door options in Grade 7 / 11 / 13 / 14 (BS EN 1935 compliant).
Finishes: satin chrome, polished brass, matt black, antique brass, and stainless steel.

Most ball bearing hinges are sold in pairs; UK fire doors typically need three hinges per door, so you’ll usually order two pairs. Packs of three are more common in satin stainless steel than in decorative finishes.

UK-wide delivery including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Glasgow, Edinburgh and across England, Scotland & Wales.

From The Anvil Ball Bearing Butt Hinge sku 83977

Understanding Ball Bearing Hinges

High-Performance Hinges for UK Timber Doors

Ball bearing hinges are engineered for smooth operation and long-term reliability, making them a superior choice for internal doors, external entrance doors, and BS EN 1935 fire-rated doors. Inside the hinge knuckle, small steel bearings minimise friction, ensuring:

Quieter door movement for residential and commercial spaces.
Increased durability in high-traffic areas.
Better load support for heavy solid timber and security doors.

Our selection includes security ball bearing hinges with anti-lift pins for extra protection on front and back doors, as well as corrosion-resistant stainless steel hinges for coastal properties. Decorative options like antique brass, satin chrome, and matt black ensure a seamless match with your chosen door furniture.

Choosing the Right Hinge Size & Grade

Available Finishes and How to Choose the Right One

Selecting the correct ball bearing hinge depends on your door’s size, weight, and location:

76mm (3 inch) – for 35mm thick internal wooden doors.
102mm (4 inch) – for 44mm thick fire or external doors.

Understanding the Grades for Ball Bearing Hinges:

Grade 7 – suitable for light-duty fire doors such as 35mm thick timber doors. Only available in 3". For 44mm standard fire doors, you must use Grade 11, 13, or 14.
Grade 11 – stronger than Grade 7 but with limitations, suitable for lighter 44mm thick fire doors and some external applications.
Grade 13 – the most popular choice in the UK, ideal for most 44mm thick fire doors and heavy domestic doors.
Grade 14 – maximum strength rating, designed for the heaviest commercial or security doors.

Security versions with studs provide extra protection for external entrances by preventing the door from being lifted off the hinges.

If you’re unsure about sizing, grading, or compliance with UK regulations, our experienced team can help. For professional advice, contact us here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are ball bearing hinges used for?

Ball bearing hinges are used on internal, external and fire-rated wooden doors to provide smoother operation, reduced wear and a longer service life.

How many ball bearing hinges do I need for a fire door?

UK fire doors typically require three hinges per door for compliance. As most hinges are sold in pairs, buyers usually order two pairs to achieve three hinges.

Can ball bearing hinges be used on external doors?

Yes. Choose stainless steel or PVD-coated finishes for corrosion resistance and consider security studs for extra protection on front and back doors.

Nationwide Supply of Architectural Ironmongery

Trusted by UK Builders, Joiners & Homeowners

With over 40 years of supplying architectural ironmongery across the UK, Trade Door Handles delivers ball bearing hinges trusted for quality, compliance, and style. We serve London, Manchester, Birmingham, Cumbria, Cornwall, Glasgow, and beyond — ensuring every project benefits from professional-grade hardware.