Flush vs. Rebated: What's the difference?

When replacing door hardware or hinges, the most important first step is to determine your door type. A flush door and a rebated door require different mounting and specific hardware. We'd be happy to explain how to easily identify them, so you can get the right materials immediately.

What is a flush door?

When closed, a flush door fits completely within the door frame. The edges of the door are smooth and flat, making the door form a neat whole with the frame. For mounting a flush door, you always use standard hinges, such as our high-quality ball-bearing hinges.

What is a rebated door?

A rebated door partly rests against the door frame. It is characterized by the rebated edge: a protruding 'step' that overlaps the frame and prevents drafts in the house. For this type of door, you cannot use standard hinges; instead, you work with specific rising butt hinges.

Our practical tip

We often see people ordering the wrong hinges because they only look at the door when it's closed. The quickest check is very simple: open your door halfway and run your hand along the edge. Do you feel a completely flat edge? Then you have a flush door. Do you feel a clear edge or a profile? Then it's a rebated door. When purchasing rising butt hinges for a rebated door, always pay close attention to the correct swing direction (DIN Left or DIN Right).