Roll Up Cabinet Doors - The Secret to a Clutter-Free Kitchen
Does your kitchen feel cramped and cluttered? Do you constantly struggle to find items buried deep within crowded cabinets? If so, it may be time to rethink your kitchen's storage solutions. Roll up cabinet doors offer an ingenious way to maximize every inch of space while making items more accessible.
With roll up cabinet doors, you can instantly double your usable cabinet space. Simply open these innovative doors to reveal a clutter-free storage paradise. Read on to learn all about how roll up cabinet doors can transform your kitchen from crowded to spacious.
What Are Roll Up Cabinet Doors?
Roll up cabinet doors operate much like a rolltop desk. Rather than swinging open, the doors retract vertically into a concealed cavity. This allows complete access to the contents inside without the doors taking up valuable space. The doors roll up and out of sight into a built-in track system when opened.
Roll up mechanisms can be added to new or existing cabinets with a frame attached inside the cabinet. Once installed, the doors glide smoothly up and down at the touch of a finger. When closed, the doors form a sleek, seamless look.
Types of Roll Up Doors
There are a few popular styles of roll up cabinet doors to choose from:
- Full height roll ups extend from top to bottom and conceal the entire cabinet face when retracted.
- Partial height roll up doors cover only the top portion of the cabinet while the bottom has fixed shelves or drawers.
- Side mount roll ups are mounted on the sides of the cabinet rather than the front.
Benefits of Roll Up Doors
There are many great reasons to consider installing roll up cabinet doors:
- They maximize space by eliminating the need for door clearance.
- Contents are easily accessible without having to open multiple doors.
- Doors can be made from various materials like wood, laminate, or metal.
- Sleek, modern look perfect for contemporary kitchens.
- Customizable - choose partial or full height to fit your needs.
- Can be added to existing cabinets or integrated into new cabinets.
Choosing Roll Up Cabinet Doors
When selecting roll up doors, there are a few considerations to factor in to ensure proper fit and function:
Cabinet Construction
First, determine whether your existing cabinets are suitable. Roll ups require a minimal interior depth, usually around 3 inches, to house the tracks. Also consider the weight capacity of your cabinets if storing heavy pots and pans.
For new cabinet installation, opt for a sturdy plywood construction at least 3/4" thick to support the rollup mechanism. Medium density fiberboard (MDF) may not hold up over time.
Where to Install
Assess your kitchen layout and identify problem spots. Common places to install roll up doors include:
- Corner cabinets - Eliminate wasted space
- Under the kitchen sink - Keep cleaners organized
- Pantry - Make items easy to locate
- Near the fridge or stove - Keep cooking essentials at your fingertips
Product Specifications
Consider a few technical specifications when selecting roll up doors:
- Lifting capacity - Make sure the mechanism can handle the weight of items stored.
- Door sizes - Measure carefully to get an accurate fit.
- Frameless or face frame - Get doors suited for your cabinet type.
- Customization - Look for companies that offer made-to-order options.
Costs
Roll up cabinet doors range from approximately $50 - $500 per door, with higher end options costing over $1000. The price depends largely on the size and material quality chosen. Though pricier upfront than regular doors, roll ups quickly pay for themselves in saved space and convenience.
Installing Roll Up Cabinet Doors
One of the best aspects of roll up cabinet doors is how simple installation can be, especially for handy DIYers.
First, fully remove existing doors, shelves, and hinges. Measure carefully and make any adjustments needed to the cabinet frames so that the new hardware fits properly. Have mounting screws and tools ready.
Mounting the Track
Attach the provided mounting brackets either inside the cabinet or framed out on the face. Side mount roll ups have brackets on the side walls. Insert the metal tracks into the brackets and secure in place with screws.
Hanging the Doors
Attach the roll up doors to the roller mechanism bars and hang them in the tracks. For full height doors, assemble multi-section doors before hanging. Test rolling the doors up and down and make any adjustments.
Finishing Touches
Add optional soft-close dampers, self-closing mechanisms, or locks if desired. Attach knobs or handles to the doors for ease of use. Apply protective floor pads underneath cabinets once complete.
Installation Tips
Follow manufacturer's instructions closely during installation. Here are some additional tips:
- Use shims to adjust track alignment if doors don't roll smoothly.
- Pre-drill cabinet frames to avoid splitting wood.
- Have a helper for large or heavy doors.
- Label door pairs alphabetically during assembly to prevent mismatched tracks.
Roll Up Door Options
Beyond the basic roll up mechanism, there are numerous options to customize your new doors:
Door Front Styles
Choose from a range of materials and finishes to match your kitchen's decor:
- Stainless steel for a modern, industrial look
- Laminates in wood grain, solid colors, or patterns
- Glass inserts for display cabinets
- Natural wood veneers to complement cabinets
Hardware & Accessories
- Knobs or pulls - Add sleek handles for easy opening.
- Dampers - For smooth, gentle closing without slamming.
- Self-closing - Springs automatically retract doors.
- Locks - If you need to secure contents.
- Motion lighting - LED strips illuminate interiors when opened.
If your kitchen cabinets are bursting at the seams and simple organizing just won't cut it, it may be time for an upgrade. Roll up cabinet doors deliver a clever, space-saving solution to maximize storage and accessibility.
By rolling out of sight into a slim track system, these innovative doors provide full access without taking up valuable kitchen real estate. You'll be able to locate items in a snap, make better use of hard to reach spaces, and rid your kitchen of clutter.
With various style and price options, it's easy to find roll up cabinet doors to match both your kitchen's aesthetic and budget. For serious storage and an ultra-modern look, roll ups are a game changing upgrade for your kitchen. Just open them up and see the secret to clutter-free living!