A bifold hinge joins two panels at their edges (corners), allowing them to fold together like a book.
It does not join panels at a perpendicular, 90-degree intersection like a corner hinge or butt hinge used on frames.
The hinge is installed along the vertical edge of two adjacent panels
The panels fold toward each other, not at a fixed right angle
When closed, the panels lie flat or nearly flat together
When opened, they pivot around the hinge line
This is why bifold hinges are commonly used for folding doors.
In hinge terminology, “at the corners” refers to:
Edge-to-edge connection
Hinges mounted on the meeting edges of two panels
A bifold hinge is installed exactly in this way.
It does not permanently hold panels at 90 degrees
It is not used for L-shaped or perpendicular joints
It is not a corner cabinet hinge
| Hinge Type | Panel Relationship | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Bifold hinge | Edge-to-edge (corner to corner) | Folding doors, closet doors |
| Butt hinge | Fixed 90° to frame | Standard doors |
| Corner hinge | Perpendicular panels | Cabinets, boxes |
| Piano hinge | Edge-to-edge, continuous | Folding panels, lids |
Bifold closet doors
Folding cabinet doors
Folding room dividers
Access panels
A bifold hinge joins panels at their edges (corners) so they can fold together.
It does not create a perpendicular, fixed-angle joint.
If you’re designing a folding door or panel system, a bifold hinge is the correct choice. If you need a rigid 90-degree connection, a different hinge type is required.