There are several types: plain bearing, ball bearing (see above), spring-loaded and rising. Get full details on butt hinges in this guide What are different hinges for? What are the Most Common Types of Hinge? The most common type of hinge used in home improvement are what is called Butt Hinges. A Butt Hinge is a hinge of two parts, or leaves, joined in the middle and used to hold together two “abutting” objects, such as a door and frame where they are most often used.