The placement of cabinet door hinges is crucial to ensure proper functionality and aesthetics. The location of the hinges affects how the door opens and closes, as well as how it aligns with the cabinet frame. Here are some guidelines for placing cabinet door hinges:
Standard placement: For most cabinets, hinges are typically placed along the edge of the cabinet door, close to the inside corner. This position allows the door to swing open freely while providing enough clearance for it to open fully without hitting adjacent cabinets or walls.
Three hinges per door: For taller or heavier cabinet doors, it's common to use three hinges per door. In such cases, the top and bottom hinges are placed a few inches from the top and bottom edges of the door, and the third hinge is placed approximately equidistant between them.
Equal spacing: When using two hinges on a standard-size door, the hinges are often placed at equal distances from the top and bottom edges to ensure balanced support.
Adjustability: Some modern hinges have built-in adjustability features, which allow you to fine-tune the door's position vertically, horizontally, or in and out. Check the manufacturer's guidelines for proper installation and adjustment instructions.
Inset vs. overlay doors: The type of cabinet door you have (inset or overlay) can influence hinge placement. Inset doors are set inside the cabinet frame, while overlay doors partially cover the cabinet frame. Hinge placement for inset doors is typically inside the cabinet frame, while overlay doors' hinge placement is typically on the back surface of the door.
Soft-close hinges: If your cabinets have soft-close hinges, ensure you follow the manufacturer's guidelines for proper installation to take advantage of the soft-closing feature.
Always remember to use appropriate hardware and tools for the installation, and if you're unsure or not experienced with cabinet installation, it's best to seek the help of a professional carpenter or cabinet installer to ensure the job is done correctly and the doors operate smoothly.