How to Install Inset Doors in Cabinets

Existing open kitchen cabinets can be enclosed using outside or inset doors. Inset doors close flush with the outside frame of the cabinet, concealing the contents inside the cabinet box. These doors are sold in a wide variety of woods, colors and sizes. They generally come pre-finished, saving you the chore of sanding, staining or painting and sealing them. Hanging these doors is relatively simple to do and only requires a few tools.

Tape measure
Inset doors
Hinges
Screw gun
Screws
Pencil

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the cabinet openings with a tape measure and purchase inset doors that will close flush with the outside cabinet frame.
- 2
  Place the inset doors into the cabinet opening to ensure they fit properly and will close flush.
- 3
  Place the inset doors upside down on a workbench or table and fasten the hinges to the inside of the doors with a screw gun and screws, if not already installed.
- 4
  Hold the inset door at a 90-degree angle against the outside of the cabinet opening. Swing the hinges open, pressing them against the inside of the cabinet box.
- 5
  Mark the location of the hinge holes inside the cabinet box using a pencil, then set the inset door aside momentarily.
- 6
  Drive the mounting screws that came with the inset doors through the pencil marks using a screw gun, then back the screws out.
- 7
  Hold the inset door up to the cabinet opening and align the hinge holes with the holes you made in the cabinet box. Insert the mounting screws and tighten with your screw gun to finish hanging the inset cabinet door.
- 8
  Repeat Steps 3 through 7 as necessary for every other inset cabinet door.

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Kitchens