How To Install Corner Kitchen Cabinet Hinges

How to Install Corner Kitchen Cabinet Hinges: A Comprehensive Guide

Corner kitchen cabinets present unique challenges for hinge installation due to their non-standard angles and limited access. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to installing various types of hinges commonly used in corner cabinets, ensuring proper alignment and functionality.

Essential Tools and Materials

Before starting, gather the following tools and materials:

Screwdriver (matching the screws provided with the hinges)
Drill with appropriate drill bit (for pilot holes)
Pencil or marking tool
Measuring tape
Level
Safety glasses
Corner cabinet hinges (appropriate for the cabinet style and overlay)
Cabinet door

Understanding Corner Cabinet Hinge Types

Different corner cabinet configurations require specific hinge types. Choosing the correct hinge is crucial for proper door operation.

Blind Corner Hinges: Used for cabinets where two doors meet at a right angle, allowing one door to open fully before the other.
Pie-Cut Hinges: Designed for cabinets with angled doors, often found in pie-cut or diagonal corner cabinets.
Lazy Susan Hinges: Specifically for rotating trays or shelves within corner cabinets, providing easy access to stored items.
Inset Hinges: Utilized when the cabinet door sits flush with the cabinet frame.

Preparing the Cabinet and Door

Accurate measurements and markings ensure proper hinge placement and alignment. This step is crucial for achieving a professional finish.

Measure the distance from the top and bottom edges of the cabinet frame where the hinges will be mounted. Consult the hinge manufacturer's instructions for recommended setback distances.
Mark the hinge locations on the cabinet frame using a pencil or marking tool.
Position the cabinet door against the frame, ensuring proper alignment and clearances.
Mark the corresponding hinge locations on the back of the cabinet door.

Installing Blind Corner Hinges

Blind corner hinges require precise installation for both doors to function smoothly. The following steps outline the process:

Attach one leaf of the hinge to the inside of the cabinet frame, aligning it with the pre-marked location. Use the provided screws and pre-drill pilot holes to prevent wood splitting.
Attach the corresponding hinge leaf to the back of the first cabinet door. Ensure proper alignment with the markings.
Repeat the process for the second cabinet door, using a blind corner hinge designed to work in conjunction with the first. This often involves an offset mounting plate.
Test the operation of both doors, ensuring they open and close freely without interference.

Installing Pie-Cut Hinges

Pie-cut hinges accommodate the angled nature of pie-cut corner cabinets. Installation requires careful attention to angle and alignment.

Carefully align the pie-cut hinge with the angled edge of the cabinet frame and pre-marked location. Ensure the hinge sits flush against the frame.
Secure the hinge to the cabinet frame using the provided screws. Pre-drill pilot holes as necessary.
Align the cabinet door with the frame and attach the corresponding hinge leaf to the back of the door, ensuring proper alignment with the markings.
Test the door's swing to verify smooth operation and adjust the hinge position if necessary.

Installing Lazy Susan Hinges

Lazy Susan hinges require specialized installation to support the rotating trays. Follow these steps for successful installation:

Attach the mounting plate of the Lazy Susan hinge to the bottom of the cabinet, ensuring it is centered and securely fastened.
Attach the corresponding hinge mechanism to the rotating tray, aligning it with the mounting plate.
Test the rotation of the tray, ensuring it spins freely and smoothly.
Make any necessary adjustments to the hinge mechanism to optimize the tray's movement and stability.

Installing Inset Hinges

Inset hinges require precise mortising for a flush fit. Achieving a clean, professional look requires accuracy and patience.

Use a Forstner bit to create the mortise for the hinge on both the cabinet frame and the door. The mortise depth and size should match the hinge specifications.
Carefully insert the hinge into the mortise and ensure it sits flush with the surface.
Secure the hinge with the provided screws.
Test the door's swing and adjust the hinge position if necessary.

Fine-tuning and Adjustments

After installing the hinges, minor adjustments may be necessary to achieve optimal door alignment and operation.

Most hinges offer adjustment screws for fine-tuning the horizontal, vertical, and depth positioning of the door.
Use a screwdriver to carefully adjust these screws until the door sits perfectly flush with the cabinet frame and operates smoothly.
Check for any rubbing or binding and make further adjustments as needed.