Cabinet hinges are designed to allow you to adjust the position and alignment of your cabinet doors. Over time, the doors may sag, rub against each other, or leave gaps that affect the appearance and functionality of your cabinets. Fortunately, you can easily fix these problems by adjusting the hinges with a Phillips-head screwdriver. Here are some simple steps to follow:
Contents
Step 1: Check the Mounting Screws
Before you start adjusting the hinges, make sure that the mounting screws are tight and secure. These are the screws that attach the hinge to the door and to the cabinet frame. There should be two mounting screws on each hinge, one on the door side and one on the frame side. If these screws are loose, the hinges may shift and cause the doors to misalign. Use your screwdriver to tighten any loose mounting screws.
Step 2: Adjust the Door In and Out
If your cabinet doors need to be moved in or out from the cabinet face, you can adjust the depth of the hinges. This is done by turning the screw on the horizontal arm of each hinge, which is located between the door and the frame. To move the door in, turn the screw clockwise. To move the door out, turn the screw counterclockwise. Make small adjustments and check the door alignment until you are satisfied.
Step 3: Adjust the Door Up and Down
If your cabinet doors need to be raised or lowered, you can adjust the height of the hinges. This is done by turning the top screw on each hinge plate, which is mounted to the inside of the cabinet frame. To raise the door, turn the screw clockwise. To lower the door, turn the screw counterclockwise. Make small adjustments and check the door alignment until you are satisfied.
Step 4: Adjust the Door Side to Side
If your cabinet doors need to be shifted left or right, you can adjust the lateral position of the hinges. This is done by turning the screw on each hinge plate that is closest to the door. To move the door right, turn the screw clockwise. To move the door left, turn the screw counterclockwise. Make small adjustments and check the door alignment until you are satisfied.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Aligned Cabinet Doors
Once you have adjusted all your cabinet hinges, you can enjoy your aligned and functional cabinet doors. You may need to repeat these steps periodically to maintain your cabinet doors in good condition.
