Information on stainless steel cabinet hinges

There are four factors to consider when choosing the type of hinge to use in installing cabinet doors: (1) the proper size and style that will match the cabinet; (2) the ease of installation, adjustment, and replacement; (3) the closing mechanism; (4) the cost.

The stainless steel cabinet hinges are among the most preferred type of hinges by consumers. They have a timeless and classic style to complement any cabinet design. They are easy to install, sturdy, and affordable. Stainless steel hinges are also durable and rust-resistant -- perfect not just for indoor use, but also for use in outdoor stainless steel sinks and cabinets.

Features of stainless steel cabinet hinges

Stainless steel cabinet hinges usually have radius corners measuring five-eighths of an inch. Packed in pairs, these cabinet hinges come complete with a set of stainless screws with sizes appropriate for the holes in the hinges. These hinges are made of 302 stainless with a thickness of 2.2 mm and available in a mill finish. The hinge pin has a diameter of six millimeters and can be removable or not. The stainless steel cabinet hinges are available in two sizes: 3 ½ x 3 ½ inches and 4 x 4 inches.

Price range of stainless steel cabinet hinges

Since cabinets use more than one hinge, stainless steel cabinet hinges usually come in pairs and also differ in sizes. A pair of 3 ½ x 3 1/2 inches with a gauge of 2.2 mm costs $12 while a pair of 4 x 4 inches with a gauge of 2.5 mm costs $16.

Installing stainless steel cabinet hinges

Follow these steps in installing stainless steel cabinet hinges:

•  If the cabinet door is paneled, align the hinges along the front edge of the rail.

•  Mark the position of the hinge on the cabinet and the depth of the recess or the thickness of the hinge flap. As you score along the marks, cut the surface of the wood to stop it from splintering.

•  Chisel the outline of the hinge shape held vertically, with the bevel facing towards the recess. At five millimeter intervals, create a series of cuts across the wood. Try to make the cuts similar to the depth of the flap thickness.

•  Chisel again along the line on the cabinet door face to remove the chips of excess wood. As much as possible, use hand pressure and maintain the blade of the bevel facing upwards. Check if the hinges fit along the edge. It they do, fix with one screw per hinge only. By using a drill bit that is slightly smaller in diameter, make a starter hole to where the screw will be placed.

•  Hold the cabinet door in place and mark the position of the hinge on the edge.

•  Similar to how you marked the frame, mark the recess for the hinge and chop out excess wood.

•  Fix the cabinet door with only one screw per hinge. Check the fit first and make any adjustments, if you must, before finally putting all the screws.