Measuring for Cabinet Doors

Access the Printable Measuring Guide

Getting accurate measurements for your new cabinet doors is a simple process. Armed with a few basic tools and a precise approach, you can prepare to place your order and transform your kitchen. You don't need to hire a professional for this - it's a DIY project that's well within your reach. Are you ready to begin?

Essential Tools

  • A Notepad
  • A Pencil
  • A Tape Measure

Measuring

Now, it's time to measure your cabinet openings for your new doors. Keep your notepad and pencil within reach, and remember to measure each opening at least twice to ensure accuracy.

Measure each door opening to the nearest 1/16" and carefully document your measurements on your notepad. Make sure to record your measurements in the format of width x height, such as "width 14" x height 30". During measurement, ensure there's at least 1/8" clearance around all openings.

Precision is crucial because your cabinet doors will be custom-made to your specifications. Any incorrect measurements can lead to ill-fitting doors that are non-returnable. Double-check your work until you're confident that you're ordering the perfect-sized cabinet doors for your project.

Note: These instructions are particularly useful when installing concealed hinge cabinet doors. If you opt for a different hinge type, your measuring instructions may vary.

Placing Your Order

Now comes the part of the cabinet-ordering process that requires careful calculation. You need to determine the exact cabinet door size you require and get ready to input it into the order form. Keep your notepad handy - it's time to do the math.

Add 1 inch to both the width and height of each opening size measurement. For instance, a 14" x 30" cabinet opening should become 15" x 31". This adjustment allows for a 1/2" overlay of cabinet door openings. Ordering based solely on cabinet order size would result in doors that are too small.

If you're dealing with split door openings, add 1 inch to the height. Then, add 1 inch to the width, divide by 2, and subtract 1/16". Here's an example:

  • 36" + 1" = 37"
  • 37/2 = 18 1/2
  • 18 1/2 - 1/16" = 18 7/16"

This calculation accounts for a 1/8" gap between cabinet doors. If you're uncertain about ordering split doors, remember this rule: for any opening wider than 22", order two doors.

If your cabinet doors have overlays greater or smaller than 1 inch (3/4", 2", etc.), substitute that number into any of the equations above.

Show your work - much like your math teacher advised you. Keep a meticulous record of your calculations on your notepad, and make sure to double-check or even triple-check your work. Make your final sizes stand out by underlining them or drawing a square around them. Carefully dictate your final custom cabinet door sizes and the quantity of each type you want to order.

Now, carefully input your custom door sizes and quantities into our Order Form. Proofread it to ensure error-free entries. When you feel confident, click submit. You're well on your way to owning your perfect cabinets.

Questions and Answers (Q & A)

How do I measure for an inset cabinet door?

For an inset cabinet door, measure the opening as instructed above and then subtract 1/8" all around the frame's opening.

What about Lazy Susans?

Lazy Susans are available for Cope N' Stick doors but not for mitered doors.

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Measuring Lazy Susans is relatively straightforward. Measure the front edge of each side to the farthest back points for width and from top to bottom for height. Add the desired overlay and subtract the door thickness to calculate the required door width. Lazy Susans are ordered as two distinct doors, with one door having an extended stile required for installation.