Step 1: Remove the Old Cabinet Doors
Before you can measure your new cabinet doors, you need to remove the old ones. Carefully unscrew the hinges and remove the doors from the cabinet frame.
Step 2: Measure the Width of the Cabinet Opening
Using a measuring tape, measure the width of the cabinet opening from left to right. Write down this measurement, as it will be necessary for ordering your new cabinet doors.
Step 3: Measure the Height of the Cabinet Opening
Next, measure the height of the cabinet opening from top to bottom. Again, write down this measurement for future reference.
Step 4: Measure the Depth of the Cabinet Opening
Measure the depth of the cabinet opening, from the front of the cabinet to the back. This measurement is important, especially if you are installing new hinges.
Step 5: Measure the Overlay of the Cabinet Doors
The overlay is the distance the cabinet door overlaps the cabinet frame. Measure the overlay of the old cabinet door to ensure your new cabinet doors will fit properly.
Step 6: Check for Squareness
Check the cabinet opening for squareness. Measure the diagonal distance between the two corners of the cabinet opening. If the measurements are equal, the opening is square.
Step 7: Measure for Hinge Placement
If you are replacing the hinges, measure the distance from the top and bottom of the cabinet opening to the center of the hinge. This measurement is necessary for proper hinge placement.
Step 8: Measure for Pull Placement
If you are installing new pulls or handles, measure the distance from the top and bottom of the cabinet door to the center of the pull.
Step 9: Check for Obstructions
Check for any obstructions that may affect the installation of your new cabinet doors, such as pipes, wiring, or other fixtures.
Step 10: Determine the Type of Cabinet Door
There are several types of cabinet doors, including full overlay, partial overlay, and inset. Determine the type of door you have for proper measurements.
Step 11: Measure the Thickness of the Cabinet Door
Measure the thickness of the cabinet door to ensure proper hinge placement and overlay.
Step 12: Determine the Type of Hinge
There are several types of cabinet hinges, including concealed, semi-concealed, and exposed. Determine the type of hinge you have for proper measurements.
Step 13: Measure the Hinge Plate
If you are replacing the hinges, measure the hinge plate to ensure proper placement and compatibility with your new cabinet doors.
Step 14: Measure the Center of the Hinge Plate
Measure the distance from the center of the hinge plate to the top and bottom of the cabinet door. This measurement is necessary for proper hinge placement.
Step 15: Measure the Distance Between Holes
If your cabinet hinges have multiple holes, measure the distance between the holes to ensure proper placement.
Step 16: Measure the Diameter of the Holes
Measure the diameter of the hinge holes to ensure compatibility with your new hinges.
Step 17: Determine the Type of Pull
There are several types of cabinet pulls, including knobs, handles, and pulls. Determine the type of pull you have for proper measurements.
Step 18: Measure the Distance Between Screws
If your cabinet pulls have screws, measure the distance between the screws to ensure proper placement.
Step 19: Measure the Diameter of the Screw Hole
Measure the diameter of the screw hole to ensure compatibility with your new pulls.
Step 20: Order Your New Cabinet Doors
Now that you have all the necessary measurements, it’s time to order your new cabinet doors. Make sure to double-check your measurements before placing your order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I measure the old cabinet doors instead of the cabinet opening?
A: It’s best to measure the cabinet opening for accurate measurements.
Q: Do I need to measure for hinge and pull placement?
A: Yes, measuring for hinge and pull placement is essential for proper installation.
Q: What if my cabinet opening is not square?
A: You may need to make adjustments or order custom cabinet doors to fit properly.
Q: What if I have a unique or custom cabinet door?
A: You may need to order custom cabinet doors to fit your unique or custom cabinet.
Conclusion
Measuring cabinet doors may seem daunting, but with these easy steps, it’s a breeze. Take your time, double-check your measurements, and order your new cabinet doors with confidence.