Hidden Hinges - Achieve a Flawless Look for Kitchen Cabinets
Imagine opening your kitchen cabinets to reveal a clean, smooth interior surface. No visible hinges interrupt the sleek, seamless look. This minimalist, modern style is achieved with concealed hidden hinges.
Hidden hinges provide the streamlined, built-in appearance of custom cabinetry for a fraction of the price. Keep reading to learn all about the benefits of hidden hinges, the different types available, and how to install them for a flawless kitchen cabinet upgrade.
Hinge Basics - What You Need to Know
Hidden hinges, also called concealed hinges, are mounted on the inside surface of the cabinet door and frame. With the door closed, the hinges are completely hidden from sight. They create a seamless, integrated appearance, unlike regular hinges that attach to the outer cabinet surface.
When the cabinet door is opened, the hidden hinges are exposed. This allows the door to open fully - some styles up to 180 degrees - for complete access to the contents. Many concealed hinge varieties also include adjustments for fine-tuning the door position.
Benefits of Hidden Hinges
The streamlined, minimalist look is the primary benefit that hidden hinges provide. The smooth, unbroken cabinet front creates a sense of quality and sophistication.
In addition, hidden hinges allow much wider door swing than standard external hinges. This full access to the cabinet interior makes items easier to access. The door can open flush against the adjacent wall or cabinet for complete visibility and reach.
Hidden hinges are also adjustable. While regular hinges only allow tweaking the screw tension, many concealed hinges use a three-way adjustment system. This helps dial in the perfect door alignment.
Types of Hidden Hinges
Many styles of hidden hinges exist to suit different cabinet door types and needs:
- Concealed hinges - The basic hidden hinge mounted internally. Varieties include soft-close and self-closing.
- Inset hinges - Installed in mortises routed into the door and cabinet ends for a true flush fit.
- Overlay hinges - Mount to the surface of the door and cabinet box for easy installation.
- Partial inset hinges - Similar to inset hinges but partially mount like an overlay hinge.
- Euro style hinges - Concealed hinges with three-way adjustability for precision alignment.
Choosing Your Hidden Hinges
With many concealed hinge options available, deciding which to use for your kitchen can be tricky. Keep these factors in mind when selecting your hidden hinges:
Hinge Types by Cabinet Door Style
The most important consideration is matching the hinge style to your cabinet door type:
- Overlay hinges attach to the exposed cabinet frame and door surface so are ideal for framed cabinet boxes.
- Inset hinges work on frameless cabinets. The door sits flush within the cabinet ends.
- Partial inset hinges combine the ease of installation of an overlay hinge with the integrated look of an inset hinge.
Opening Angle and Clearance
Consider the opening clearance required based on your kitchen layout. Standard concealed hinges allow around 110 degrees of swing. Wide opening hinges offer up to 180 degrees for full access.
Make sure adjacent walls, countertops or other obstructions do not limit door swing when open.
Features to Consider
Look for hidden hinge features that suit your needs and preferences:
- Self-closing hinges automatically shut cabinet doors.
- Soft-close hinges prevent slamming with a gentle slowing action when closing.
- 3D adjustable hinges simplify fine-tuning door alignment. 2D adjustments are more limited.
Hinge Materials
Stainless steel resists corrosion and provides durable wear. Or choose ornamental finishes like oil-rubbed bronze, satin nickel, or brass.
Installing Hidden Hinges
Getting Started
Installing concealed hinges requires a drill for creating pilot holes and driving screws. Other tools include:
- Hinge template or jig
- 35mm Forstner bit for drilling cup holes
- Phillips driver bit
- Router for mortising inset hinge cups (optional)
Use filler strips if needed to create a flush frame surface. Carefully measure hinge locations from cabinet ends and edges.
Hinge Placement Basics
Typically, concealed hinges mount about 2-3" from the top and bottom of the cabinet door. Position them around 5-7" from door edges.
Equal spacing creates a balanced look. Follow manufacturer templates for specific models.
Mounting Process
Overlay hinges simply screw into the cabinet frame and door surface. Inset hinges require mortising into the door and cabinet ends first before fastening.
Euro hinges use a clip system with a mounting plate. Carefully align components and adjust as needed.
Hinge Adjustments
If doors don't align correctly, use the three-way adjustment system on Euro style and other adjustable hidden hinges. Tweak each setting incrementally until the fit is perfect.
Hidden Hinge Styles for Any Kitchen
Hidden hinges help create a flawless built-in look. Here are some options to complement different kitchen aesthetics:
Modern Minimalist
The clean lines of full inset cabinetry pair beautifully with discreet soft-close hidden hinges. Their matte black finish and smooth operation enhance the sleek contemporary style.
Traditional Country Kitchen
Brushed brass or oil-rubbed bronze hinges with exposed wood cabinet frames provide a charming vintage feel. Self-closing functionality keeps cabinets neatly shut.
Budget-Friendly Solution
Overlay hidden hinges offer easy installation for DIY'ers. Their convenience keeps costs down. Go for durable stainless steel models to suit simple shaker-style cabinets.
FAQs About Hidden Hinges
What tools do I need to install hidden hinges?
A drill, hinge template, Forstner bit, Phillips driver, and router for mortising are the basic toolkit for installing concealed hinges.
My new doors don't line up right after installing hidden hinges, help!
Use the 3D adjustment system on adjustable concealed hinge models. Tweak up/down, in/out, and side-to-side until door alignment is perfect.
How do I find hidden hinges for unconventional angled cabinet doors?
Check manufacturer catalogs for hard-to-find specialized hinges. Or use offset mounting plates to adapt standard hinges.
My hidden hinges started making a squeaking noise, what should I check?
Lubricate hinge pins if needed. Also ensure mounting screws are fully tightened and door is aligned properly.
Hidden hinges provide a streamlined built-in look and wide access to cabinet interiors. Choose adjustable hinges with features like self-closing, soft-close, and finishes that complement your kitchen's style.
Carefully select the right hinge type for your cabinet door style for flawless results. Follow the manufacturer's templates for smooth installation. With some patience during adjustment, you'll achieve perfectly aligned doors.
Transform the look of your kitchen with hidden hinges. Discover simple solutions for a high-end bespoke cabinetry appearance. Hidden hinges help you achieve kitchen nirvana!