Quick version: 1-3/8″ doors generally take 3.5″ hinges; standard 1-3/4″ doors take 4.5″; wide or heavy 1-3/4″ doors step up to 5″; very thick or heavy doors take 6″.
Standard sizing chart
| Door thickness | Door width | Hinge height |
|---|---|---|
| 1-3/8″ | up to 32″ | 3.5″ |
| 1-3/8″ | over 32″ | 4″ |
| 1-3/4″ | up to 36″ | 4.5″ |
| 1-3/4″ | 37″ – 48″ | 5″ (heavy) |
| 2″ – 2-1/4″ | any | 6″ |
Width also sets the hinge "width"
The chart above is hinge height (leaf length). Hinge width (open, leaf to leaf) needs to clear your trim and casing — wider hinges are used to swing a door clear of deep trim. For standard openings the default width that comes with each size is correct.
Adjust for weight and bearing type
Heavy doors should use the larger size in their band and ball-bearing hinges rather than plain-bearing. The bearings carry the load with less wear, which matters most on the larger, heavier doors.
Frequently asked questions
What if my door is between sizes?
Round up. A slightly larger hinge carries the load comfortably; an undersized one wears and sags.
Does corner radius matter?
For replacement, yes — match square vs 5/8″ or 1/4″ radius corners to your existing mortise, or you'll have to recut it.