Cabinet overlay refers to the amount of overlap your cabinet door has on the cabinet frame. To measure the overlay, you need to determine how much the door extends beyond the frame's edge.
Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Choose a Cabinet Door: Select a cabinet door with hinges.
- Locate the Hinge Side: Identify the side where the hinges are attached.
- Measure from the Hinge Side: Place a ruler or measuring tape on the hinge side of the door. Align the zero mark with the inside edge of the cabinet frame.
- Measure to the Door Edge: Extend the ruler or tape measure to the opposite edge of the door.
- Record the Measurement: The measurement you get is your cabinet overlay. Common overlays are 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch, or 1 inch.
Practical Insight:
- Common Overlay Types: The most common overlay types are full overlay, partial overlay, and inset.
- Full Overlay: The door fully covers the frame, offering a modern look.
- Partial Overlay: The door overlaps the frame partially, creating a traditional look.
- Inset: The door sits inside the frame, creating a sleek and minimalist aesthetic.
Example:
Let's say you measure a cabinet door with hinges. The measurement from the inside edge of the frame to the edge of the door is 3/4 inch. This indicates a 3/4-inch overlay.
Why is overlay important?
Knowing your overlay measurement is crucial when replacing hinges or ordering new doors. It helps you choose the right hinge type and ensures proper alignment between the doors and the cabinet frame.
