Replacing hinges on your kitchen cabinets

One of the most common complaints about kitchens involves the use of often limited space. Many renovators seek to use corners more effectively with 'lazy susan' style cupboards. In an existing kitchen the choice of hinges may not reflect the wide range of possibilities now available, so it pays to think about what uses the cabinet may have and how space may be better utilised. There are also a few simple technique tips for the process of changing the hinges which will make the process easier and prevent damaging the doors.

Kitchen cabinet hinges

The first step in changing kitchen cabinet hinges is to assess what you want and what practicality dictates you will need. You may have safety concerns with exposed hinges, and either want to replace or secure these. There are now a vast range of possibilities that may allow you to open and shut a cabinet door with more variety than you previously had considered. Whatever you choose you also have to be sure it can attach to the material the cabinet is made of, there being a large range of different materials now being used. Generally solid wood doors will be more robust than manufactured ones such as chip board.

Face frame hinges are easier to use and to adjust than butt hinges. They boast an 'arm' that allows for adjustment of the door, either two or three ways.

Steps for replacing your kitchen hinges

After you have chosen the style of hinge for your kitchen cabinets, there are some simple steps to replacing them:

• Have a helper on hand. You will need a second pair of hands to support the door as you attach new hinges to avoid the hinge screws tearing the wood
• Ensure that you have the correct number of hinges, screws and the appropriate screwdriver for the doors you want to replace before you begin
• Remove the door from its old hinges by having a helper hold it level while you undo the screws on the hinges. This will avoid tearing the wood
• Have your helper hold the door in place while you mark exactly where the hinge will attach to the cupboard door and the cabinet itself
• Drill small holes in the door and cabinet at the points where the screws for the hinges will be placed, then attach the hinges to the cabinet first
• With your assistant holding the door completely level and straight (use a block to steady it) screw the hinges onto the door at the appropriate position
• Adjust the hinges so that the door hangs exactly as you want it. For European hinges, you will need to keep adjusting the adjusting screws until the level is right
• For frame style hinges, adjust the door by attaching the screws exactly to the correct place on the cabinet

Replacing kitchen cabinet hinges

If your kitchen cabinets are not functioning properly, are loose or simply are impractical, it may be time to change the hinges. This is a perfect job for the home handyperson, and just requires a little time, an assistant and the right choice of hinges to make your kitchen a smoother, easier place to work in.