How to Install Cabinet Hinges?

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

1. Dimensions & Selecting the Right Hinges
2. Choose the Hinge Type
3. Fitting Concealed Hinges (Cup Hinges)
4. FURNICA Hinges | Additional Information

The correct installation of cabinet hinges is crucial when fitting cabinet doors. It is essential that the hinges are properly aligned while opening smoothly. FURNICA offers many types of hinges for various large and small cabinets. They can be installed in kitchen and living room furniture. See below to find out what to consider when fitting cabinet hinges!

Dimensions & Selecting the Right Hinges

Right at the start, you should consider two main aspects. First, it is necessary to check the various hinges and select the ones that best suit your cabinet. There are several criteria to bear in mind during selection. Naturally, we know how important the appearance of the hinges is, but their dimensions are nonetheless the most important factor!

Another significant parameter is the door opening angle. This is the key factor determining whether the cabinet door can be opened fully or only partially.

FURNICA offers hinges for corner cabinets that only need to open partially, as well as hinges for standard cabinets (opening angles usually up to around 60 / 90 degrees) that open conventionally. There are also hinges with a wider opening angle suitable for installation on convex cabinets (where the opening angle can sometimes even exceed 180 degrees).

It is necessary to measure accurately and mark the centimetres from the top and bottom edges. Prepare a simple tool beforehand, such as a ruler, tape measure, or combination square, to measure the distance from the top edge of the cabinet door and mark a horizontal line with a pencil. Next, measure from the bottom edge of the door. As a result, all markings should be uniform. If they are not, the cabinet door will not open and close smoothly!

Choose the Hinge Type

The next step is selecting the type of hinge you wish to fit. The concealed hinge (also known as a European hinge or cup hinge) remains hidden, but bear in mind that you must drill a shallow recess into the cabinet door for this type of product.

Traditional hinges remain visible. Consequently, these products are much simpler to fit. Furthermore, they can add a decorative touch to your cabinet. Once you have chosen your hinges, you can begin the installation!

Fitting Concealed Hinges (Cup Hinges)

As mentioned earlier, concealed hinges are the best solution for anyone seeking hinges that are invisible from the outside. In this case, prepare a suitable drill bit and drill according to the specific material of the cabinet or door. The specialist drill bit should generally be set to half depth (11 mm). Remember to measure and set the drilling depth beforehand so as not to drill too deeply through the material!

When the drill bit reaches the marked drilling depth, stop drilling and move on to the next hinge mounting point. Once the holes in the door are ready, insert the hinge cup into the recess so that the screw holes sit flush against the surface of the cabinet door. Carry out all tasks slowly and carefully, taking measurements continuously to ensure everything proceeds as planned. Once the holes are ready, use the preliminary positioning mark. Rest the cabinet door against the edge of a clamped board for support, mark the pilot holes, and screw the cabinet hinges into place.

The next step is securing the mounting plates. The hinges should be inserted into the mounting plates. Generally, the arms need to be pressed firmly into place so that they click securely into the mounting plates. Finally, check that everything functions correctly! The cabinet doors should open easily and smoothly.

FURNICA Hinges | Additional Information

Fitting traditional hinges is much simpler because they do not need to be recessed. In this situation, all steps are simplified. However, if you have not used dedicated soft-close hinges (also available from FURNICA), you can choose to purchase dedicated dampers for your cabinets. Fitting them requires just a single screw! Explore our products today and find the ideal hinges for your project!