Cabinet hinges come in different sizes. Choosing the right size hinge ensures your doors open and close properly.
To measure the overlay, carefully mark the edge of the door on the hinge side with a pencil. Then, use a tape measure to determine the distance between the marker and the cabinet frame.
Width
When you want to replace your cabinet hinges, it is important to know the width of your existing hinges. You will need this information to purchase replacements that fit correctly and function efficiently.
Using a tape measure, determine the length of your hinge from its tallest point or pin to its outer edge. This measurement is relatively easy, but it may be more complicated if your hinges are old and worn. If your hinges have a slight bend or crookedness, you may have to use a straightedge for an accurate measurement. In addition, you should also note if your hinges have square corners or rounded ones (also called radius). This knowledge will help you select the correct hinges for your project.
The next step is to measure the overlay of your cabinet doors. Overlays are the amount that a cabinet door overlaps the cabinet frame. There are two primary types of overlays: full and partial inset doors. Partial inset doors overlap the cabinet surface partially, while full overlay doors overlap it completely. If you don’t measure the overlay correctly, your new cabinet door will either extend too far and touch the adjacent door, or it won’t overlap enough and leave a space gap between the cabinets.
You will need to open your cabinet hinges to take this measurement. If your hinges have a pin, raise it above the hinge leaf for an accurate measurement. Then, measure the height of each leaf with a tape measure. Make sure you measure from the tallest point of the pin down to the widest part of the hinge leaf. Depending on your hinge type, the hinge leaves may be different sizes.
You should additionally use a pencil or another removable marking method to indicate the position of the hinge cup on the cabinet frame. This marked spot will guide you when you’re ready to drill for your new cabinet hinges. Once the drilling is complete, make sure to take note of the depth of each hinge. While most standard hinges have a depth ranging between 11 and 12mm, there could be variations in certain specifications.
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Overlay
With all the different kinds of hinges and sizes, it’s important to measure correctly to ensure a smooth installation. This is especially true when replacing existing hinges, as it’s easy to purchase the wrong size. The first step is to determine the desired overlay for the new hinges. This can be done by referring to the specifications or recommendations for your cabinet style. After determining the overlay, use this measurement when choosing a new hinge.
Using a tape measure or ruler, mark the edge of your door vertically on the frame side (or the hinge side). This is where you’ll want to place the mounting plate for the new hinges. You may need to loosen the screws holding the hinge plates in place before measuring.
Next, open the cabinet door and examine the hinges. Depending on the type of hinge, you might need to remove the plate from the face frame to take accurate measurements. If you’re working with tee, band, or gudgeon hinges-the kind that features small mounting plates and one long band secured to the cabinet, door-you can measure across the center of the plate.
If you’re working with a concealed hinge, mark the position of the cup on the cabinet door. You may need to remove the hinge, but be careful not to damage the door. Then, using your tape measure or ruler, measure from the edge of the mounting plate to the edge of the door. This is your hinge overlay measurement.
Subtract the hinge plate’s width from the available space on the cabinet door to determine the overlay measurement. This will help you choose a hinge that fits the door and doesn’t leave any gaps or overlaps when it’s closed. You should also consider deducting 1/16″ from the cabinet-side leaf of the hinge when calculating the overlay. This adjustment will guarantee that the doors do not make contact in the center while being opened or closed. If you don’t deduct this amount, your hinges might be too short or too long for your cabinet doors.
Depth
Cabinet hinges come in a wide variety of kinds and sizes. It is essential to take measurements before purchasing them to ensure they will work properly with your cabinet door. These measurements will help narrow down your options when it comes time to choose a new pair of hinges, and they’ll also ensure that you don’t end up with ones that are too big or small.
The first step in measuring cabinet hinges is determining the open or hinge leaf width. To do this, close the door and then use a tape measure to determine how much the hinge extends outward from the face of the cabinet. Place the tape measure directly above the pin in the hinge’s center and note this measurement. It’s important to know the size of the leaf width, as it may differ from one hinge to the next depending on the type you select.
There are two primary cabinet hinge types: surface-mount and concealed hinges. Concealed hinges have a mounting plate on both sides and work well with inset doors. Surface-mount hinges have a mounting plate on one side and are used for flat or slab doors. If you’re looking to replace your existing hinges, look for the manufacturer’s name on the hinge to find out what kind it is. You can also refer to this buying guide for guidance.
Overlay doors overlap the cabinet frame, while partial inset doors fit partially into the opening. When you’re purchasing replacement hinges, it’s essential to measure the overlay. Otherwise, the new door will not sit correctly over the cabinet.
To measure the overlay, close the cabinet door and then use a tape measure to find how much the hinge extends outward from that point. Place the tape measure directly over the pin in the hinge’s center and note this measurement. It’s important that the overlay is measured accurately, as it will influence how well the cabinet door fits over the hinge.
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Corner Radius
Cabinet hinges come in a variety of styles, kinds, and sizes. The hinges you use on your cabinets will have an effect on how your doors open and close, and they can also change the overall look of your cabinets. It’s important to take the time to measure and determine which kind of hinge you need for your cabinets. You can do this by determining the size of the cabinet door’s overlay and then choosing a hinge with a similar or larger overlap.
First, mark a line on the cabinet door with a pencil to find the overlay. Then, using a tape measure or ruler, line up the edge of the tape with the exact place where the cabinet door meets the frame or panel of the cabinet. Make sure the mark is parallel to the hinge side of the door. Then, measure from the tip of the tape to the inside of the cabinet frame or panel. The distance between the door and the frame is the cabinet overlay.
If you’re using concealed hinges, you can skip this step. The concealed hinges will be hidden by the cabinet door, so you won’t need to know the size of the cupboard or unit you’re installing it on.
Before drilling the hinge cup recess, loosen any screws on the old hinge using a screwdriver. If there’s any paint buildup on the hinge, use a utility knife to peel it off. Once the hinge cup is positioned on the mounting plate, mark through the fixing hole with a pencil (don’t forget to do this accurately, or you won’t have a square hinge cup).
Then, drill the holes for the new hinges. Remember to drill slowly to avoid over drilling, which can ruin the mounting plate of the hinge. After completing the task, perform a test on the hinge by opening and closing it several times. If you have installed the hinge correctly, the doors should close smoothly without drooping or creaking. If the hinges are not properly installed, you may need to consider adding additional bracing to ensure the security of your doors.
