When remodeling your kitchen, there are several decisions that you will have to make. One of the most important decisions is the type and style of cabinet doors. Cabinet doors are available in three types (inset, partial overlay, and full overlay) and various styles.
Types of Cabinet Doors
The type of door on the cabinet—whether it is inset, partial overlay, or full overlay—not only affects the look of the kitchen and the function of the door, but it also determines how the cabinet frame is constructed and the amount of storage space inside the cabinet. When choosing a type of cabinet door, keep in mind the cost of that type of door and your overall budget for the remodel.
Inset Cabinet Doors
In the inset cabinet style, the doors and drawers are on the same plane as the edges of the cabinet box to create a clean, flush look. The door hinges are either mounted on the face frame (making them visible) or just inside the frame (keeping them hidden).
Inset doors and drawers were the first type of cabinetry designed. They have been around for a long time, and they have a very traditional look. Inset doors and drawers can evoke a farmhouse or classic style.
An advantage of inset cabinetry is that they are great for smaller kitchens. The doors and drawers do not project. This can help save space in what is already a tight area. The edges of the doors and drawers are less prone to wear and tear because they are not exposed.
The disadvantage of inset cabinetry is that, because the doors and drawers are set flush with the frame, it reduces the amount of storage space. Also, in humid climates, the wood can swell from the moisture and cause it to get stuck or rub.
The biggest downside of inset cabinetry is the cost. Inset cabinets require a higher level of craftmanship and a greater attention to detail than the other two types.
Partial Overlay Cabinet Doors
Partial overlay—also known as standard overlay—is the most common type of cabinetry. The doors and drawers are mounted over the face of the cabinet box. They completely cover the opening in the cabinet and partially cover the frame. Typically, 1” to 2” of the cabinet frame remain visible around the doors and drawers. Because of the large gaps, hardware is not required to open the doors and drawers.
The main advantage of partial overlay cabinets is the cost. They are typically less expensive than inset and full overlay cabinetry. They are more affordable because the doors and drawers are not as large as the full overlay ones and do not require as much material.
The main disadvantage of partial overlay doors is that they do not look as high end as inset or full overlay.
Full Overlay Cabinet Doors
With full overlay, the doors and drawers completely cover the openings in the cabinet as well as the entire face of the box. There are only small gaps between the doors and drawers—typically ¼” to ½”. This creates a most consistent, continuous, and streamlined appearance. During design and installation, extra care must be taken so that doors, drawers, and hardware do not collide.
An advantage of full overlay is that it offers the most amount of internal storage. It also has a more modern look than inset and partial overlay.
Styles of Cabinet Doors
Cabinet doors are available in several different types. Each type can be used with inset, full overlay, or partial overlay.
Raised panel doors have center panel that is elevated above the rest of the door or is on an even plane with the outer edge of the door.
Recessed panel doors have a center panel is that is lower than the outer edge.
Slab Doors are flat panel doors with no decorative accents.
Open frame doors feature glass in the center section of the door. The glass can be clear, tinted, frosted, embossed, painted, or stained.
Mullion frame cabinet doors features horizonal and vertical strips of wood that create a grid pattern overtop of a glass panel.
If you are interested in remodeling your kitchen, give us a call a Shakespeare Home Improvement Co. to set up a free consultation. Shakespeare Home Improvement Co. is Lancaster County’s premier kitchen remodeling company. We offer beautiful custom kitchen remodeling featuring StarMark Cabinetry.