Cabin Hooks: Everything You Need To Know

Cabin hooks are an incredibly useful addition to any doorway or storage unit; they provide a stylish and effective way of keeping doors closed (or open!). They are available in a range of sizes and finishes, providing a multitude of décor options, whether they’re installed on French doors, cupboards or outdoor areas such as sheds and garden gates.

In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about cabin hooks, including why you may want to consider adding them to your home.

What Is a Cabin Hook?

Cabin hooks are small hook locks that contain an eye catch. They are used to hold doors and gates open, or to keep them closed.

Cabin hooks can be plated with numerous finishes, including chrome, nickel and brass. No matter what finish, cabin hooks tend to always hold a rustic and traditional look, making them perfect to use in traditional farmhouses or country estates.

How Do Cabin Hooks Work?

Simple yet efficient, cabin hooks contain two separate pieces – a metal hook and an eye catch plate. The hook is usually fitted onto the door frame, while the eye catch is fitted to the door, or vice versa.

In terms of mechanisms, the hook swings over towards the eye catch to secure the door open or closed.

When you purchase a cabin hook, it will come with a set of screws so you can quickly and easily install it. These hooks can be installed at any level, whether it’s above a key lock or right at the top of a door.

What Are Cabin Hooks Used For?

Cabin hooks are typically used for windows, doors and gates, to stop them from swinging open or closed. They are popularly used on French doors to keep them open during the warmer months.

What Is A Silent Cabin Hook?

Silent cabin hooks work in the same way as traditional cabin hooks but they are typically used for heavy-duty applications, as they have a tighter-fitting hook and eye. This minimises the risk of movement and therefore sound, which is why they are referred to as silent cabin hooks.

Silent cabin hooks are ideally suited to areas where you want to restrict the movement of a door or gate but want something more aesthetically-pleasing than a standard bolt. As with classic hook and eye locks, silent cabin hooks are available in various sizes and arm lengths, as well as in different finishes to blend in with décor styles.

How Do You Install A Cabin Hook?

The beauty of cabin hooks is in their simplicity; they’re easy to install as well as use.

The first decision you need to make is the placement of your cabin hook and eye. They can be installed at any height - from close to ground if you’re using them to keep doors open, or at eye level if you’re using them as a door lock. There are no rules - it’s all a matter of personal preference.

Once you’ve decided where you want the hook and eye to be, mark where it will sit with a pencil – ensure that it is level when you’re positioning it and make sure that there’s sufficient space between the arm of the hook and the eye plate so that it can be hooked over easily. A tape measure can be useful here to make sure the length of the gap is adequate.

When you’ve double checked that everything has been marked properly and is level, mark the positioning of the screw holes for the hook and screw in the fixings.

In Summary

Cabin hooks are aesthetically-pleasing and inconspicuous, serving as a great alternative to bolts, which can look out of place in certain applications. Cabin hooks are easy to fit, whether you’re a DIY amateur or an expert, and they add a subtle charm to doors, windows and outdoor spaces.

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