How To Change Cabinet Hinges

How to Change Cabinet Hinges

Cabinet hinges are an essential component of any cabinet as they enable doors and drawers to open and close smoothly. Over time, hinges may become loose or damaged, leading to a need for replacement. Fortunately, changing cabinet hinges is a relatively straightforward process that can be done with basic tools and some patience. In this article, we will guide you through the process of changing cabinet hinges step by step.

Step 1: Gather the Tools and Supplies

Before starting the process of changing cabinet hinges, gather the necessary tools and supplies. These include:

- A drill or screwdriver

- A hammer

- A ruler or tape measure

- New cabinet hinges

- Screws (if they are not included with the new hinges)

- Safety glasses

Make sure to choose the right size and style of the new hinges to match your current ones.

Step 2: Remove the Old Hinges

To remove the old hinges, start by opening the cabinet door or drawer. Locate the screws on the hinges that fasten them to the cabinet and use a drill or screwdriver to remove them. If the screws are stuck or difficult to remove, use a hammer to gently tap them out. Be careful not to damage the cabinet or hinges while doing this.

Once the screws are removed, lift the old hinges out of their mortises. You may need to gently pry them out with a screwdriver or chisel. Check the mortises for any old glue or debris and clean them thoroughly with a dry cloth.

Step 3: Install the New Hinges

To install the new hinges, align them with the mortises and insert them firmly. Use the correct screws that come with the new hinges or use ones that are of similar size and style. Start by screwing in the top hinge first, followed by the bottom one.

Make sure that the new hinges are level and perpendicular to the cabinet frame. Check that the doors or drawers open and close properly and adjust the hinges as needed.

Step 4: Adjust the Hinges

Most cabinet hinges are adjustable, so if the door or drawer is not closing properly or is too loose, it may require some minor adjustments. This can be done by loosening the screws slightly and moving the hinge up, down, or sideways until the door or drawer is level and flush with the cabinet.

Be careful not to turn the adjustment screws too much or you may damage the hinge or screw. It is better to make small adjustments until the desired fit is achieved.

Step 5: Test the Hinges

Once the new hinges are installed and adjusted, test them to make sure they are working properly. Open and close the doors and drawers several times to see if they move smoothly and align correctly with the cabinet frame.

If there are any issues, such as hinges that are too tight or too loose, make further adjustments until they work correctly.

Conclusion

Changing cabinet hinges is an easy and inexpensive way to refresh your cabinets and improve their functionality. By following these simple steps, you can replace old, worn-out hinges with new ones that will keep your cabinets working smoothly for years to come. With the right tools and some patience, anyone can change cabinet hinges in a matter of hours.