Kitchen Cabinet Door Terminology

Kitchen Cabinet Door Terminology: A Comprehensive Guide

Kitchen cabinet doors are an essential element in any kitchen design, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. To ensure you make informed decisions when choosing or describing cabinet doors, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the key terminology used in the industry.

Door Style:

Door style refers to the design and appearance of the cabinet door's front surface. Common door styles include Shaker, raised panel, flat panel, and glass-front doors. Each style offers a unique look that can complement different kitchen aesthetics.

Finishes:

Cabinet door finishes range from painted to stained to laminate. Painted finishes provide a smooth, solid color, while stained finishes allow the natural grain of the wood to show through. Laminate finishes offer a durable and water-resistant option.

Materials:

Kitchen cabinet doors are typically made from wood, metal, or thermofoil. Wood doors are durable and versatile, while metal doors are known for their strength and sleek appearance. Thermofoil doors, made from a thin layer of vinyl laminated to MDF, offer affordability and moisture resistance.

Construction:

Cabinet door construction refers to the way the door is put together. Frame-and-panel construction involves a sturdy frame with a center panel, while stile-and-rail construction uses thicker stiles (vertical pieces) and rails (horizontal pieces) to create a more traditional look.

Hardware:

Hardware includes the knobs, handles, or pulls used to open and close cabinet doors. They come in various styles, finishes, and materials, ranging from classic brass to modern chrome.

Overlay:

Overlay describes how the cabinet door overlaps the cabinet frame. Full overlay doors completely cover the frame, while partial overlay doors overlap only partially. Inset doors fit within the frame, creating a flush appearance.

Door Size:

Cabinet door size is typically measured in inches, with the width followed by the height. Standard door sizes range from 12 inches to 48 inches in width and 12 inches to 36 inches in height.

By understanding these essential aspects of kitchen cabinet door terminology, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions when designing and selecting your dream kitchen.