Cabinet hinges are one of the most important parts of any piece of furniture. However, choosing the right ones can be difficult. This is because there are a lot of factors to consider such as overlays, cabinet style, and more.
When selecting cabinet hinges, make sure to double-check all measurements. This will help prevent any future headaches.
1. Know What You Need
Cabinet hinges can have a big impact on the look and function of your cabinets. The type of hinge you choose will determine how your doors fit and how they will swing.
The first step in choosing the right hinges is to identify the cabinet door style you’re working with and the type of overlay (full or partial) that your doors have. This will narrow your options down significantly.
Once you know what type of hinges you need, you can begin to identify the best cabinet hinge manufacturers. Whether you need concealed hinges for furniture, oil rubbed bronze hinges to match your kitchen hardware or Grade 1 institutional hinges for government buildings and workplaces, there are many cabinet hinge manufacturer options available to meet your needs.
2. Look for a Reputable Manufacturer
When buying cabinet hinges, it’s important to find a company that is reliable. This is because hinges are used frequently, so they need to be durable and work properly. In addition to being reliable, you also want your hinges to be affordable.
The first step is to determine the type of hinge you need. This will depend on the cabinet design and the door overlay style you have chosen. Then, you can narrow your options down based on features and finish. For example, you might want a self-closing hinge or soft-close hinge to prevent slamming doors. You can also find hinges that are available in different finishes or decorative designs. This is a great way to find the right hinge for your home. A good place to start is by examining the hinge and looking for the manufacturer stamp.
3. Ask Questions
Whether you are replacing old, squeaky hinges or just want soft-close ones for your cabinet doors, it’s important to ask the right questions so that you’re not buying something that you don’t need. For instance, if you’re looking for new hinges for your cabinets, try to find ones that have the same screw hole measurements as the existing hinges. This can help to make the replacement process easier and faster. Also, pay attention to the hinge’s overlay—the distance that the door covers on the hinge side. Typically, this measurement is given in fractions and can be determined by examining the hinges you already have on your cabinets.
4. Check Online Reviews
When choosing cabinet hinges, it’s always good to check online reviews to see what people have to say. This will help you find a manufacturer that has a strong reputation and is known for producing high-quality hinges.
A reputable manufacturer will also have a solid warranty and customer service. This is important because if you have any issues with your hinges, you want to be sure that the manufacturer will be there to help.
Hinges come in a variety of finishes, so it’s important to choose one that matches your cabinet style and color palette. If you’re replacing existing hinges, it’s helpful to bring a sample of your cabinet door with you to the hardware store so that an employee can match the hinges.
5. Be Flexible
Depending on your cabinet style and door overlay, you may need different types of hinges. For instance, some hinges are designed with soft close mechanisms that reduce the speed at which your cabinet doors shut, reducing the chance of a slam. These hinges also usually have larger degrees of adjustment, making it easier to open and close your cabinets.
Another option is a concealed hinge. These sit on top of the cabinet and do not require a mortise hole to be drilled. However, these hinges do not offer the same level of adjustability as a traditional hinge.
Whether you are looking for anti-corrosion cabinet hinges, oil rubbed bronze hinges or grade 1 institutional hinges, there is something for everyone. It is just a matter of knowing what you need and doing your research!
