Doors Don't Align- Hinge Adjustment Frequently Asked Questions

Hillside Cabinets
Mar 24
3 min read

When cabinet doors don't align properly, it can be a bit frustrating, but there are steps you can take to fix this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Check the Hinges:

Tighten Loose Screws: Ensure all hinge screws on both sides of the misaligned doors are securely tightened. Loose screws can cause misalignment.
Adjust the Hinges: Using a screwdriver, adjust the hinges by turning the adjustment screws. For vertical misalignment, adjust the height screws; for horizontal issues, adjust the side-to-side screws.

2. Shim the Hinges:

Identify the Problem: Determine which hinge needs adjustment by observing where the misalignment occurs—top, bottom, or sides of the doors.
Use Shims: Insert thin shims, such as cardboard or veneer, behind the hinge at the necessary points to align the doors. This helps adjust the angle of the hinge.

3. Realign the Doors:

Gentle Manipulation: Gently lift or lower the misaligned door while applying slight pressure to adjust its position.
Check for Rubbing: Close and open the doors to ensure they align properly without rubbing against each other or the cabinet frame.

4. Re-adjust the Hinges:

Repeat Adjustment: If the doors are still misaligned after initial adjustments, revisit the hinge adjustment screws and fine-tune their positions until the doors align properly.

5. Seek Professional Help:

Consider a Professional: If the misalignment persists or seems beyond DIY adjustment, consider seeking help from a professional cabinet maker or carpenter for precise alignment.

Quick Tips:

Take your time and make small adjustments to avoid overcorrecting.
Test the doors frequently while making adjustments to ensure proper alignment without any rubbing or sticking.

Addressing misaligned cabinet doors might require some trial and error. By adjusting hinges, shimming, and gentle realignment, you can often resolve the issue and get those cabinet doors lining up as they should!

Adjusting cabinet door hinges is a handy skill that can help keep your cabinets working smoothly. Here's a simple guide to adjusting them:

Tools You May Need:

Screwdriver (Phillips or flathead)
Adjustment screws on the hinges

Steps to Adjust Cabinet Door Hinges:

1. Identify the Hinge Type:

Some hinges have adjustment screws visible on the outside, while others might have them concealed under a cover plate.

2. Locate the Adjustment Screws:

For hinges with visible screws, these are typically found on the hinge arm or base. Concealed adjustment screws might require removing the cover plate to access them.

3. Adjusting Side-to-Side Alignment:

To correct side-to-side alignment (if the door is sagging or not level), turn the adjustment screw clockwise or counterclockwise to move the door left or right, respectively. Small turns can make a noticeable difference.

4. Adjusting Height or Depth:

If the door is sitting too high or too low, adjust the height or depth by turning the screws accordingly. Clockwise turns usually raise the door, while counterclockwise turns lower it.

5. Fine-Tune and Test:

Make small adjustments, then close the door to check the alignment. Repeat the process until the door sits flush and closes smoothly.

6. Repeat for Multiple Hinges:

If the cabinet door has multiple hinges, adjust each hinge a little at a time to achieve an even and balanced alignment.

7. Check for Smooth Operation:

After adjustments, ensure that the door opens and closes smoothly without rubbing against the cabinet frame or other doors.

8. Tighten Screws Securely:

Once satisfied with the adjustments, ensure all screws are tightened securely to hold the new position.

Important Tips:

Always make small adjustments and test the door frequently to avoid over-adjusting.
Be patient; it might take a few attempts to get the perfect alignment.
Take note of the adjustments made for each screw to replicate them if needed in the future.

Wrapping Up:

Adjusting cabinet door hinges is a DIY task that can improve the functionality and appearance of your cabinets. With a few simple adjustments, you can ensure your cabinet doors close smoothly and align perfectly!