How To Match Existing Kitchen Cabinet Doors

Matching existing kitchen cabinet doors can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor. A successful match preserves the kitchen's aesthetic continuity while addressing wear and tear or facilitating desired updates. Several factors contribute to achieving a near-perfect match, requiring careful consideration and methodical execution.

Key Considerations Before Starting

Before embarking on the matching process, several crucial factors must be evaluated to ensure a successful outcome. Overlooking these initial steps can lead to mismatches and wasted resources.

Cabinet Construction: Understanding the cabinet box construction is essential. Frameless cabinets offer more flexibility for door replacement compared to framed cabinets, which may require specific door styles.
Door Style: The door style is a primary defining feature. Common styles include shaker, raised panel, flat panel, and slab. Precisely identifying the existing door style is paramount.
Wood Species: Identifying the wood species is vital for achieving a consistent look. Common choices include oak, maple, cherry, and hickory. Each species has unique grain patterns and staining properties.
Finish: The finish significantly impacts the cabinet's appearance. Whether painted, stained, or lacquered, replicating the existing finish is essential for a seamless match.

Gathering Information About Your Existing Cabinets

Gathering accurate information about the current cabinets is the foundation of a successful matching process.

Manufacturer Information: If possible, locate any manufacturer labels or documentation. This information can simplify the process by allowing direct repurchase or providing specifications for matching.
Measurements: Precise measurements of the existing doors are critical. Record the height, width, and thickness to ensure the new doors fit perfectly.
Hardware: Pay attention to the existing hardware, including hinges, knobs, and pulls. Matching hardware ensures consistency and avoids the need to modify the cabinet boxes.

Exploring Matching Options

Several avenues exist for matching existing kitchen cabinet doors, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Contacting the Original Manufacturer: If the manufacturer is still in business, contacting them directly is the most straightforward approach. They may have replacement doors available or be able to provide specifications for custom fabrication.
Working with a Cabinet Maker: A skilled cabinet maker can create custom doors to match the existing ones. This option offers greater flexibility in terms of wood species, style, and finish.
Searching for Aftermarket Suppliers: Numerous aftermarket suppliers specialize in cabinet doors. They often carry a wide range of styles and sizes, increasing the chances of finding a suitable match.
Refacing Existing Doors: If the cabinet boxes are in good condition, refacing the existing doors can be a cost-effective option. This involves replacing the veneer or applying a new finish to update the appearance.

Matching Wood Species and Finish

Achieving a precise match in wood species and finish requires meticulous attention to detail.

Wood Samples: Obtaining wood samples from potential suppliers allows for direct comparison with the existing cabinets. This helps ensure a consistent grain pattern and color.
Finish Samples: Requesting finish samples is equally important. Apply the samples to a piece of scrap wood of the same species as the cabinets to evaluate the color and sheen in different lighting conditions.
Professional Finishing: For complex finishes, consider engaging a professional finisher. They possess the expertise and equipment to replicate the existing finish accurately.

Installation and Final Adjustments

Proper installation is crucial for achieving a professional and seamless result.

Hardware Alignment: Ensure that the new doors align perfectly with the existing hardware. Adjustments may be necessary to ensure proper functionality and a flush fit.
Gaps and Spacing: Maintain consistent gaps and spacing between doors and drawers for a uniform appearance. Shims can be used to make minor adjustments as needed.
Final Inspection: Conduct a thorough final inspection to ensure all doors are properly installed and aligned, and that the finish matches seamlessly.

Maintaining Matched Cabinet Doors

Preserving the appearance of newly matched cabinet doors requires ongoing maintenance.

Regular Cleaning: Use a gentle cleaner specifically designed for cabinets to remove dirt and grime without damaging the finish.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, which can strip the finish and damage the wood.
Protective Measures: Consider using protective mats or liners inside cabinets to prevent scratches and spills. Address spills promptly to prevent staining.