Sometimes a kitchen needs more than just a deep cleaning or a fresh coat of paint. Renovator Amelia Lee says it’s possible to revitalize your kitchen without breaking the bank by simply switching out the cabinet hardware.
If a cabinet hinge has ripped away from the door, leaving a gap when it closes, wood filler can fix this in just minutes.
Replace the Hinges
Kitchen cabinet door hinges are opened and closed many times during the course of a day, which can cause them to loosen or become misaligned over time. This can result in a sagging cabinet door that doesn’t close properly or may need to be re-hung altogether. You can easily fix this problem by adjusting the hinges and tightening any screws that are loose. You can also replace the existing hinges with new ones to give your kitchen a fresh look.
When you’re ready to replace the hinges on a cabinet, it’s important to select the right type. There are many different types of hinges to choose from, including basic butt hinges, Euro-style hinges, and bifold hinges. Once you’ve chosen the style of hinge that’s best for your needs, you can begin preparing to install it.
Start by loosening the screw that attaches the hinge to the cabinet frame with a screwdriver. Be careful not to remove the screw completely, as it may be needed for the adjustment process. Next, you’ll need to remove the hinge from the cabinet door. This is usually easy to do, but it will depend on your hinge type.
Once the hinge is removed from the door, you can use a template that comes with your cabinet hinge kit to mark where you want to place the new hinge. Make sure to mark the locations for both parts of the hinge so you know where to drill the screw holes. Then, carefully drill the screw holes for the new hinge and place it on the cabinet door. Screw it in place using a screwdriver and be careful not to overtighten, which could damage the door or strip the screw holes.
To finish the project, test the hinges by opening and closing the cabinet door several times to ensure that it opens and closes smoothly and securely. You should also test the stability of the door by pushing on it in different areas to ensure that it doesn’t droop or move too much. If you notice any further issues or problems with the hinge, it’s time to make another adjustment or consider hiring a professional to do it for you.
Paint the Cabinets
Cabinet paint can give your kitchen a fresh look and revitalize its appeal. However, painting cabinets is a major undertaking that requires proper prep work to ensure the job goes as smoothly as possible and you don’t wind up with splatters and spills everywhere. Start with a thorough cleaning to remove any grease buildup that could get in the way of a smooth, even coat of paint. You can find a non-toxic degreaser such as Krud Kutter in the cleaning aisle at your local hardware store. Use a clean cloth to wipe down the cabinets, paying special attention to the areas where the hinges are attached.
Before you begin painting, take a moment to inspect the hinges. If you notice signs of wear and tear, rust or corrosion, or persistent squeaking that cannot be fixed by adjusting the hinges, then it’s time to replace them. Select a replacement hinge that matches the style and size of your existing ones, and carefully follow the installation instructions to ensure a good fit.
If the hinges are fine, you can move on to prepping the surface of the cabinet for paint. Begin by loosening the screws that hold the hinges in place and removing them from the cabinet. Place the screws in a safe spot for easy reassembly later.
Next, sand down the cabinet surface to create an even and smooth finish before priming. Allow the primer to dry according to the product’s instructions. Once the primer is fully dry, apply your choice of latex or oil-based paint. It’s important to choose a high-quality paint for the best results.
If you are using latex paint, be sure to purchase a stain-blocking primer as well to ensure the final coat of paint will adhere properly. Once the first coat is fully dried, you can reattach the hinges and prepare to reinstall the cabinet doors. Before you do, test the door by opening and closing it several times to make sure it opens and closes easily without any resistance or sticking. Once you’re satisfied, you can enjoy your newly painted cabinets!
Refinish the Cabinets
If you’re happy with the overall look of your cabinetry but don’t love the color, refinishing the cabinets can give your kitchen a fresh new feel. This DIY project requires some major elbow grease, but the results can be stunning. Before you begin, have your materials lined up and prepare your workspace by covering surfaces you don’t want to get paint on. This is not a project to be done in haste, so take your time and do the job right. You’ll need good quality sandpaper, a chemical stripper and rubber gloves to protect your hands, an organic vapor respirator, and a 3 1/2-in. flexible putty knife (available through lumberyards or home centers).
If your cabinet hinges are functioning properly, it’s possible to hide scratches and other small imperfections by using a stain-filled touch-up marker. Choose a marker that’s lighter than your existing finish. Apply a thin coat of the marker and wipe off any excess. Repeat as needed until the scratch is hidden.
In some cases, cabinet hinges can become misaligned or sagging, which can lead to gaps between the door and frame when it’s opened or closed. Fortunately, this problem is often easily fixed by loosening the hinge and then moving it up or down to correct the issue.
To adjust the hinge, start by opening the cabinet door fully to expose the hinges. Then, use a screwdriver or drill with the appropriate size screw to remove the screws holding the hinge to the cabinet frame. Once the screws are removed, set them aside in a safe place to avoid losing them.
Once the cabinet is empty, you can move to the next step of the process by sanding down the cabinet frame and doors. If you’re planning on painting your cabinetry, you’ll need to clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dirt and grease, then sand again to create a smooth, even texture. You can use a power sander for faster results or opt to use hand sandpaper for more control over the sanding. After sanding, vacuum the cabinet to remove any dust and debris. Once the surface is smooth, you can reinstall the cabinet hardware and rehang the door.
Replace the Doors
If you’re not happy with the current look of your cabinets, replacing the doors may be your best option. Choose a style and color that complements the rest of your kitchen, and you can instantly transform the whole space. Replacing cabinet doors is a little more involved than simply screwing new hinges onto your existing door frames, as you need to remove the face frames and doors before installing the new ones, but the overall job isn’t difficult or expensive.
If one of your cabinet hinges is misaligned, loose, or showing signs of wear and tear, you can often fix it by tightening the screws that hold it to the frame. Loose screws can cause the hinge to move, which can be noticeable when opening or closing the door. It’s also a good idea to inspect the hinge for other issues, such as rust or dents, and to replace them if needed.
To tighten a loose hinge, start by loosening the screws on both the hinge plate and cup that attach it to the door. If you’re unsure how to do this, check the manufacturer’s website for instructions or search online for “bifold hinge” and terms like “installation” or “adjustment.”
Once you’ve loosened the screws, carefully lift the door off its hinges and set it aside. Next, unscrew the hinges from the cabinet frame and place them on a distinct surface or in a jar so you don’t lose them.
Use a tape measure to identify the hinge holes in your cabinet frame and mark these locations with a pencil on the back of the new door you’re using. Next, use a drill to create holes in the door that match those marks, and then use a screwdriver to attach the new hinges.
If you’re not satisfied with the new look of your cabinets, consider adding accent doors to give them a custom touch. Louvered, mullion, or chalkboard doors in an accent cabinet can add a bit of flair to any kitchen. You can even make your own accent doors with wooden appliques (available at craft stores and home improvement centers) and some paint.
