Cabinet Door Hinge Gap Calculator
Find proper gaps and spacing for cabinet doors. Based on hinge type and environment.
Height of cabinet door
Width of cabinet door
Material thickness
Type of hinges
How much door overlaps frame
Material of the door
Where cabinet is installed
Type of cabinet construction
What is the standard gap around cabinet doors?
Standard gaps: 1/16" (1.5mm) on all sides is typical. Slightly larger on bottom (3/32" or 2.5mm) for clearance. Full overlay doors have the gap at the frame edge; inset doors have consistent gaps around. Standard reveal is 1/32"-1/16" (0.8-1.5mm). Adjust for humidity in kitchens/bathrooms - use 3/32" (2.5mm) or more.
How many hinges do I need for cabinet doors?
General rules: Doors under 24" tall: 2 hinges. Doors 24-36": 2 hinges (quality). Doors 36-48": 3 hinges. Doors over 48" tall: 4 hinges. Also: Use more for heavy doors (glass, solid wood), heavy-use cabinets, or older users. More hinges = less sag and more secure.
Should cabinets in bathrooms have larger gaps?
Yes, bathrooms (andlaundry rooms) need bigger gaps: Use 3/32" (2.5mm) instead of 1/16" (1.5mm). Wood and MDF expand with humidity - 3-5% seasonally. Large doors with small gaps can stick or crack. Leave at least 1/8" (3mm) for solid wood bathroom cabinets. Use ventilating doors or paint back of doors.
What's the difference between overlay and inset cabinets?
Overlay: Door sits on top of frame, partially covering it. Partial overlay 1/2" typical, full 1-1/4". Easier install, more gap tolerance. Inset/Flush: Door sits inside frame, gaps visible. More precise needed, more traditional look. Frameless/European: No face frame, doors inset to edge, needs precise gaps for alignment. Each needs different hinge type and mounting.
How do I adjust cabinet door gaps?
Most modern hinges have adjustment: Side (lateral): Move door left/right. Depth (in/out): Tighten/loosen gap. Height (up/down): Adjust at hinge. Use a putty knife or screwdriver. Make small adjustments, test between each turn. For stuck doors in humidity, use a heat gun briefly or wait for dry weather. Never force doors closed.