My Experience With Outside Hinges For Kitchen Cabinets

As a homeowner who loves to cook, my kitchen is my favorite room in the house. I spend a lot of time preparing meals, so it’s important to me that my kitchen is functional and organized. When it was time to update my cabinets, I decided to try out outside hinges. Here’s what I learned:

Understanding Outside Hinges for Kitchen Cabinets

Outside hinges, also known as surface-mounted hinges, are attached to the outside of the cabinet door and frame. They are visible when the cabinet is closed and can be decorative or hidden. These types of hinges are often used for older cabinets or for cabinets that are being refaced. They are also a popular choice for European-style cabinets.

Advantages of Outside Hinges

One of the main advantages of outside hinges is that they are easy to install. They don’t require any special tools or skills, which makes them a great choice for DIY projects. They also allow for a wider range of adjustability than other types of hinges, which means you can get a perfect fit for your cabinet doors.

Disadvantages of Outside Hinges

One disadvantage of outside hinges is that they are visible when the cabinet is closed. This may not be a concern if you are using decorative hinges, but if you want a cleaner, more modern look, hidden hinges may be a better choice. Outside hinges may also be less durable than other types of hinges, which means they may need to be replaced more often.

Step-by-Step Guide for Installing Outside Hinges

If you’re considering outside hinges for your kitchen cabinets, here’s a step-by-step guide to installing them:

Remove the old hinges from the cabinet door and frame.
Position the new hinge on the outside of the cabinet door and screw it into place.
Position the matching hinge on the cabinet frame and screw it into place.
Test the door to make sure it opens and closes smoothly.
Adjust the hinges as needed to get a perfect fit.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Outside Hinges

Here are some tips and ideas for using outside hinges in your kitchen:

Choose decorative hinges for a vintage or rustic look.
Use hidden hinges for a clean, modern look.
Consider using outside hinges on cabinets that are being refaced.
Match the finish of the hinges to the finish of your cabinet hardware.
Use outside hinges on European-style cabinets for an authentic look.
Choose adjustable hinges for a perfect fit.
Consider using outside hinges on upper cabinets for a unique look.
Use outside hinges on cabinets with glass doors to show off the hardware.
Mix and match hinges for a personalized look.
Choose high-quality hinges for durability.

Pros and Cons of Outside Hinges

Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to use outside hinges:

Pros

Easy to install
Wider range of adjustability
Can be decorative or hidden
Can add a unique look to your cabinets

Cons

Visible when the cabinet is closed
May be less durable than other types of hinges
May not be suitable for all types of cabinets

My Personal Review and Suggestion

After using outside hinges in my kitchen for several months, I’m happy with my decision. The hinges were easy to install and allowed me to get a perfect fit for my cabinet doors. I chose decorative hinges that match my cabinet hardware, and I love the vintage look they add to my kitchen. While I can see the hinges when my cabinets are closed, it doesn’t bother me and adds to the overall charm of my kitchen. If you’re considering outside hinges for your kitchen cabinets, I would definitely recommend giving them a try.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: Can outside hinges be used on all types of cabinets?

A: Outside hinges may not be suitable for all types of cabinets. It’s best to consult with a professional to determine if outside hinges are a good choice for your cabinets.