Assessing the hinges on your cabinets is crucial for ensuring their proper functionality and alignment. Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel or simply replacing worn-out hinges, accurate measurements are essential for selecting the correct replacements. Fortunately, measuring cabinet hinges is a relatively straightforward process that can be accomplished with a few simple steps using basic tools like a measuring tape or ruler.
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and identify the type of hinges used on your cabinets. Common hinge types include overlay, inset, and wrap-around hinges, each with specific measurements that need to be taken. Once you have identified the hinge type, you can start measuring its dimensions. The most important measurements to note are the hinge’s height, width, and overlay (if applicable). The hinge height is the distance from the top to the bottom of the hinge, and the width is the distance from one side to the other. The overlay measurement is the amount by which the door overlaps the cabinet frame when closed.
To measure the hinge height, place the measuring tape or ruler against the top of the hinge and extend it to the bottom. Record this measurement in inches or millimeters. For the hinge width, place the measuring tape or ruler against one side of the hinge and extend it to the other side. Again, record this measurement in inches or millimeters. If the hinge is an overlay hinge, you will also need to measure the overlay. To do this, close the cabinet door and measure the distance between the edge of the door and the edge of the cabinet frame. Record this measurement in inches or millimeters. With these measurements, you will be able to purchase the correct replacement hinges for your cabinets, ensuring a seamless fit and optimal functionality.
Determining the Hinge Type
Before proceeding with measurements, it is crucial to identify the specific type of cabinet hinge you are dealing with. Key characteristics to consider are the hinge’s overall design, its point of attachment, and its function. Here’s a detailed explanation of the most common types of cabinet hinges:
Overlay Hinges
Overlay hinges, also known as face frame hinges, are designed to be attached to a face frame that surrounds the cabinet opening. They typically feature two leafs that overlap the cabinet door and the face frame, providing a seamless and concealed appearance when the door is closed.
Overlay hinges come in various sizes and styles, with the most common types being self-closing and spring-loaded. Self-closing hinges have a built-in mechanism that provides a gentle pull to close the door, while spring-loaded hinges rely on tension to keep the door shut.
Inset Hinges
Inset hinges, also known as European hinges, are designed to be concealed within the cabinet opening. They have two arms that extend into the cabinet and attach directly to the inside of the door. Inset hinges provide a clean and minimalist look, making them a popular choice for modern and contemporary kitchen designs.
Inset hinges typically have a self-closing mechanism and are adjustable, allowing for precise alignment of the door. They are also available in different sizes and finishes to match the cabinetry.
Overlay versus Inset Hinges: A Comparison
| Feature | Overlay Hinges | Inset Hinges |
|---|---|---|
| Attachment Point | Face frame | Inside cabinet opening |
| Appearance | Overlaps cabinet door and face frame | Concealed within cabinet opening |
| Common Types | Self-closing and spring-loaded | Self-closing and adjustable |
| Style | Traditional and classic | Modern and contemporary |
Measuring Hinge Size
Identifying the Hinge Type
Before measuring the hinge, determine its type:
- Butt hinge: The most common type, with two leaves that fold together.
- Concealed hinge: Hides behind the cabinet door when closed.
- European hinge: A frameless hinge, typically used in modern cabinetry.
Determining Hinge Measurements
Step 1: Measure the Hole Spacing
Locate the mounting holes on the cabinet door and frame. Measure the distance between the centers of the holes. This is the “hole spacing.”
Step 2: Measure the Hinge Height
From the bottom of the door to the center of the topmost hole on the door, measure this length. It is the “hinge leaf height.”
Step 3: Measure the Hinge Width
The hinge width is the distance between the edges of the hinge leaves. This measurement is not crucial for installation, but it can be useful for determining the appropriate size of the mounting plate.
Step 4: Measure the Hinge Overlay
The hinge overlay determines how much the door overlaps the cabinet frame when closed. Measure the distance from the edge of the door to the center of the hinge pin. This is the “hinge overlay.”
Hinge Size Chart
Common hinge sizes based on hole spacing:
| Hole Spacing | Hinge Height | Hinge Width |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2" | 2-1/2" | 1" |
| 5/8" | 2-5/8" | 1-1/4" |
| 3/4" | 2-7/8" | 1-1/2" |
| 1" | 3-1/8" | 1-3/4" |
Determining Hinge Placement
Cabinet hinges are essential components of any cabinet, as they determine how the doors open and close. To ensure a proper fit, it is crucial to measure the hinges accurately. Follow these steps to measure cabinet hinges:
1. Determine the Type of Hinge
First, identify the type of hinge you will be using. There are various types of hinges available, such as concealed hinges, butt hinges, and piano hinges. The type of hinge will determine the measurements you need to take.
2. Measure the Door Thickness
The thickness of the cabinet door will determine the size of the hinge cup. Measure the thickness of the door at the point where the hinge will be mounted. This measurement will be used to determine the diameter of the hinge cup.
3. Determine the Hinge Offset
The hinge offset is the distance between the center of the hinge cup and the edge of the door. This measurement is critical, as it affects the alignment of the door when it is opened and closed. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the hinge offset measurement:
- Set the Door Inset: The distance between the door’s edge and the cabinet’s edge is known as the door inset. Determine the desired door inset, which typically ranges from 1/8" to 1/2".
- Calculate the Hinge Overlay: The amount by which the door overlaps the cabinet frame is referred to as the hinge overlay. Determine the required overlay, usually between 1/4" to 1/2".
- Subtract the Overlay: Subtract the hinge overlay from the door inset to obtain the hinge offset. This value indicates the distance between the hinge cup’s center and the door’s edge.
The following table summarizes the relationship between the door inset, hinge overlay, and hinge offset:
| Door Inset | Hinge Overlay | Hinge Offset | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/2" | 1/4" | 3/8" | |
| 1/4" | 1/8" | 3/16"### Using a Template for Accuracy ###Using a template is a foolproof method to ensure accurate measurements for your cabinet hinges. Templates are typically available from the hinge manufacturer or online. To use a template:#### 1. Center the Template ####Align the template with the center of the cabinet door and secure it using masking tape or clamps. Make sure the template is level and parallel to the door’s edge.#### 2. Mark the Hinge Locations ####Transfer the hinge locations from the template to the cabinet door using a pencil or awl. Use a sharp tool to create clear and precise marks.#### 3. Use a Drill Guide ####For added accuracy, use a drill guide to drill pilot holes for the screws. Align the guide with the marking on the template and drill through the door.#### 4. Countersink the Holes ####Countersinking the screw holes prevents the screw heads from protruding from the door’s surface. Use a countersink bit that matches the diameter of the screw heads. Drill a small countersink hole in each pilot hole, ensuring the screw heads will sit flush with the door.Here’s a quick summary of the steps for countersinking holes: | Step |
| Step | Description | ||
| 1. | Choose a countersink bit that matches the screw head diameter. | ||
| 2. | Drill a pilot hole in each hinge location. | ||
| 3. | Line up the countersink bit with the pilot hole. | ||
| 4. | Drill a small countersink hole to accommodate the screw head. | ||
| Hinge Cup Depth = Door Thickness + Overlay / Inset + Hinge Offset | |||
| Cabinet Type | Hinge Type | Hinge Length | Hinge Width |
| Blind Corner Cabinet | 170-Degree Hinge | Door Height | Door Width/2 |
| Blind Corner Cabinet | 180-Degree Hinge | Door Height | Door Width |
| Door Size | Number of Hinges | ||
| Up to 18 inches | 2 | ||
| 18 to 36 inches | 3 | ||
| 36 to 48 inches | 4 | ||
| Over 48 inches | 5 or more |