How to Choose a Cabinet Hinge

Many elements combine to create the overall look and design of your kitchen. Most of these elements should reflect your personal taste and style, as well as complement each other. Although homeowners rarely give them any thought, cabinet hinges can be very prominent and completely change the overall style of your cabinets and of the room.

• 1

  Find out what type of hinges you need. This depends on the type of cabinets you have. Face frame cabinets have a frame over the top of the opening and will require face frame mounted hinges. Frameless cabinets require hinges that can attach right to the cabinet's side.

• 2

  Decide how much overlay the hinges need to have. For cabinet doors that are completely on top of cabinet faces, choose a full overlay hinge. If there is only a partial overlay, choose a 3/8 inch inset hinge, and is there is no overlay, choose a full inset hinge.

• 3

  Check out the different style options for hinges. The Youngdale hinge, for example, has a self-closing feature that is controlled by inner springs. Some other hinge brands include Amerock, Grass and Blum.

• 4

  Look for hinges with a finish that complements the other hardware in the room. Some common hinge finishes include copper, nickel, polished brass and antique brass.