If you want to replace your kitchen doors, you may be concerned you don't have the right skills to measure up and order the correct sized doors. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, the easy part is doing the measuring. The harder part is deciding which colour and material to go for.

New kitchen doors in Matt Kombu Green

While replacement door websites will have detailed guides to show you how to measure for your new doors, the following tips will make the task seem less daunting and will ensure that you get a professional finish every time. Not only that, but you will be able to avoid having to get a tradesman in, which will save you money and time.

Tips on how to measure

  • Most kitchen doors come in standard sizes due to the way that kitchens are supplied. If your kitchen has been supplied by a DIY store for example, it will have standard carcass sizes and measuring the doors will be a fairly simple process. However, if you have custom cupboards, you will need to measure them carefully. Bear in mind that not all styles of door will come in non-standard sizes.
  • Generally your doors will be 4mm less all the way round than the carcass edges. This gives room for the door to open.
  • Measure your old kitchen door on the inside so that any detailing on the front won't affect the measurement. Remember to write down the height  then the width and to keep to this pattern. Always measure your old doors rather than the carcasses. This will give you are more accurate idea of the sizes required and it is easier.
  • If your doors have hinges which are located in non-standard positions (ie: not 100mm from the top and bottom) it is wise to note this. That way you new doors can be pre-drilled to your specifications.

Other things to consider

  • Take note of the type of hinges which you have been using. Do they open further than 180 degrees, as an example?
  • Write down the thickness of your carcass as well. This can affect the type of hinge you will use.
  • Measure drawer fronts in the same way as the doors. When checking the drawers check to make sure the runners are still in good working order. It might be the perfect time to replace the drawer box, if required.
  • Lastly think about other things which you might need in your kitchen such as cornices, pelmets, shelving units and plinths. These will finish off the look of your kitchen and should be ordered with your new doors so that you are left with a cohesive look. Measure these in the same way as your doors.
  • Order cornices, pelmets and plinths with an extra 20% for wastage. But do take note of the width of your current plinth, as these can come in varying sizes.
  • If you are replacing your worktop, you may want to consider getting an expert in to fit it as this is a tricky job. When ordering this item it is best to buy more than you need to be on the safe side.

It is worthwhile taking your time when you do the measuring and ordering of your new kitchen replacement doors. Read through  all of the information given by your door supplier to ensure you have given them all the details they need. Getting it right at this stage will make it easier to fit and replace your kitchen doors. It will also mean that you will be able to complete the job in no time.