Replacing a kitchen hinge or cupboard hinge is easily achievable. Here's how to do it:
Tools you'll need:
- Screwdriver (Phillips or flathead depending on your screw type)
- Possibly a drill and drill bit (if the new hinge doesn't use the existing screw holes)
- Pencil (for marking)
- Optional: tape (to mark screw depth on drill bit)
Steps:
- Remove the door: If the kitchen hinges are clip on then press in the clip to remove the hinge from the hinge plate. If the hinges are screw on then unscrew the hinges from the hinge plate on the cabinet frame, allowing the door to be lifted off.
- Remove the old hinge from the door: There might be screws holding it or a mechanism for detaching it. Look for any retaining screws or clips and detach the hinge.
- Match the new hinge: Get a replacement kitchen hinge that matches the old one in size and type (Full overlay, half overlay or inset). Ensure you check the cup size as well. 26mm and 35mm cup size are standard. Also consider the opening angle and hinge style. If in doubt contact Unico for further information. This ensures proper fit and easier installation.
- Use existing holes (ideal scenario): If the new cupboard hinge uses the same screw placements as the old one, simply line it up on the door and screw it in place using the existing holes.
- New hinge, new holes: If the screw holes don't match, use the new hinge as a template to mark the screw positions on the door with a pencil.
- Drill pilot holes (optional): For a stronger hold and to prevent the wood from splitting, pre-drill pilot holes slightly smaller than the screw size. You can use masking tape on your drill bit to mark the desired drilling depth.
- Attach the new hinge to the door: Screw the new hinge into the marked positions on the door.
- Attach the hinge plate to the cabinet (using existing holes): If the hinge plate uses the existing screw holes, line it up and screw it back in place.
- Attach the hinge plate to the cabinet (drilling new holes): If the screw holes on the hinge plate need to be adjusted, mark them based on the hinge plate placement and drill pilot holes before screwing the hinge plate in place.
- Reattach the door: Lift the door and align the hinge are and plate, snapping them together or screwing them in depending on the hinge type.
- Test and adjust: Close and open the door to check for smooth operation. You might need to slightly adjust the screw placements for proper alignment and door closing. You can also adjust the screws on the hinge to ensure a better door closure/fit.
Here are some additional tips:
- Match hinge manufacturer: If you are replacing a hinge with a one from another manufacturer, we recommend replacing all the hinges on the door. This will ensure that all the hinges move in the same manner when opened and closed.
- Match the hinge type: Full Overlay hinges close onto the edge of the carcass and overlay the carcass side. Half Overlay hinges close onto the edge of the carcass and overlay half of the carcass side. Inset hinges allow the door to close within the frame of the carcass.
- Cup size: Select the correct cup size for your replacement concealed kitchen hinges. 26mm and 35mm are standard but other sizes are also available.
- Opening angle: Standard kitchen hinges and cupboard hinges have opening angles between 95° and 110°. Anything in this range will be a suitable replacement for most kitchen hinges. If in doubt try and match the style of the hinge or contact Unico for further details.
- Upgrade: You can also upgrade your kitchen hinges or cupboard hinges with Soft Close Hinges to provide a smooth door closing with reduced noise and effortless closure.
By following these steps, you should be able to replace your old cupboard hinges or broken kitchen hinges with new ones and enjoy your doors opening with ease again!