Measuring for new cabinet doors is an essential step to ensure you get the right size and fit. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to measure for new cabinet doors:
Tools you'll need:
- Tape measure
- Paper and pen to record measurements
Step 1: Remove the Existing Doors (if applicable): If you're replacing existing cabinet doors, take them off the cabinets and lay them flat on a clean surface.
Step 2: Measure the Cabinet Opening Width: Measure the width of the cabinet opening from left to right. For face-frame cabinets (traditional cabinets with a frame around the front), measure from the inside edge of the left stile (vertical frame member) to the inside edge of the right stile. For frameless cabinets (European-style cabinets without a face frame), measure from the inside edge of the left side panel to the inside edge of the right side panel.
Step 3: Measure the Cabinet Opening Height: Measure the height of the cabinet opening from top to bottom. For both face-frame and frameless cabinets, measure from the inside edge of the top rail (horizontal frame member) to the inside edge of the bottom rail or panel.
Step 4: Determine the Overlay (for Face-Frame Cabinets): Overlay refers to how much the cabinet door overlaps the cabinet opening. There are typically three types of overlays: full overlay, half overlay, and inset. Most modern cabinets use full overlay, where the door covers almost the entire cabinet frame. Measure the overlay by measuring the distance from the edge of the cabinet opening to the edge of the door when it's closed. This will help you get the correct door size.
Step 5: Check for Squareness: Use a carpenter's square or measure diagonally from one corner of the cabinet opening to the opposite corner. Repeat for the other two corners. If the measurements are not the same, it indicates that the cabinet opening is not perfectly square. Take note of the largest width and height measurements.
Step 6: Record the Measurements: Write down all the measurements you've taken. Label them clearly as width, height, and overlay (if applicable).
Step 7: Check for Hinge Locations (if reusing existing hinges): If you plan to reuse your existing cabinet hinges, check where they are positioned on the cabinet frame and mark their locations. This will help ensure your new doors have the hinge holes in the correct places.
Step 8: Consider Other Factors (Optional): If you're looking for new doors with different features, such as different hinge styles or hardware placement, consider these factors when ordering your new doors.
Keep in mind that cabinet door sizes are typically specified in width x height format (e.g., 18" x 30"). When ordering new doors, it's a good idea to double-check the measurements with the manufacturer or supplier to ensure you get the right fit for your cabinets.