Installing cabinet doors may seem like a job only for professionals, but once you know the basic step-by-step, you’ll find that it’s actually a pretty easy task. Here’s how to install cabinet door hinges:
Prepare Your Cabinets
First, prepare your doors. Determine the size and number of cabinet hinges you need, remove the doors from the frames (if installed previously), and make any refurbishments before attaching the doors.
Ready Your Tools
You’ll need some tools to help you install your cabinet door hinges in a snap. Here’s a list of what you should have at the ready:
- Pencil
- Ruler/tape measure
- Drill/driver
- Screwdriver
- Screws
- Hot glue
- Painter’s tape
Installing Butt Hinges
To install butt hinges, start by placing them on the cabinet where you’ll install them, wrapping them around the outer edge of an open cabinet wall. The hinges should be flush against the outside and the inside part of the cabinet. Next, use a ruler or tape measure to make sure the hinges are evenly spaced apart.
Pro-tip: Write these measurements down if you’re planning to do the same to other cabinet doors.
Tape the hinges in place with painter’s tape, then screw the cabinet side of the hinge with a power drill, making sure the screws are fully inserted so they’re flushed and are sticking out of the screw-hole. Flip the hinges over and apply some hot glue, then place the cabinet door on top. Adjust so that the door’s even, holding it still until the glue dries. Finally, drive the rest of the screws into the holes to secure the hinges to the door. Open and close the door to make sure everything’s lined up neatly.
Installing hinges on cabinet doors is an essential skill for any homeowner, realtor, or home designer. Knowing the steps to adjust the hinges on cabinet doors ensures that the storage elements function perfectly—and look great, as well. When you’re hunting for kitchen cabinet doors for sale, you should always consider the type of door hinges to use for them.
Usually, to install cabinet door hinges, you just need to mark the spots, drill the holes, and install the doors with screws–but the method might differ depending on the type of hinges you use. For example, with European hinges, there’s an extra step involving a hinge cup.
Types of Cabinet Door Hinges
Whether you're replacing cabinet doors or buying new cabinets, the type of cabinet door hinges you pick can affect how your cabinetry works and looks. Here are three of the most common ones to choose from:
Butt Hinges
Butt hinges are composed of two pivoting plates that spread out; their interlocking fingers form a barrel and are held together by a pin, facilitating free movement. One plate is attached to the door, while the other is to the frame. You can see the joint from the outside, which is why it’s important that you choose a butt hinge finish that balances out your cabinet’s look.
European Hinges
European hinges, also known as concealed hinges, have a mounting plate that attaches to the cabinet and a cup that sits in a circular mortise that’s drilled to the back of the door. They’re subtle, giving cabinets a cleaner and sleeker look.
Semi-Concealed Hinges
A semi-concealed hinge, as its name suggests, is partly visible from the outside when the cabinet door is closed. These hinges join to the inside of a cabinet frame and its door, making it look as if the doors are floating on the face of the frame; they may incorporate decorative details for a more excellent finish.
Installing European or Semi-concealed Hinges
To install European or semi-concealed hinges, start by marking the door where the hinge cup will be installed. Place your hinge on one edge of the line, then adjust it to make sure you’re installing it at the right place. Repeat this step with all the remaining cup holes.
Hold the door against the cabinet and make necessary measurements to ensure everything is evenly aligned. Separate the mounting plate from your hinge, place it on the cabinet, and drill it into place with a self-centering drill. Mount the door, then slide the hinge onto the mounting plate until you hear a click. Open and close the door to make sure everything works.
Cabinets From 27estore
If you’re building a kitchen or looking to remodel an old one, check out the great kitchen cabinet options from 27estore. You’ll find cabinets in a wide variety of colors and finishes, and you’ll even be able to choose the type of hinges to install them with for a truly curated look. Find your next cabinet from 27estore today!
