How to Measure for Replacement Cabinet Doors
Learn how to measure existing cabinet doors, drawer fronts and cabinet openings for made-to-size replacement doors.
First decide what you are measuring
If you are replacing existing doors and the current door size is correct, the simplest path is often to measure the existing door itself. If the old doors are missing or you are changing overlay, you may need to calculate the new door size from the cabinet opening instead.
Do not assume every door in a kitchen is identical. Record each piece separately, especially pantry doors, sink-base doors, corner cabinets and drawer fronts.
How to record an existing cabinet door
- Remove or open the door enough to measure the full slab accurately.
- Measure the width at more than one point and record the finished door width.
- Measure the height at more than one point and record the finished door height.
- Write dimensions consistently as width × height.
- Label the location so you can verify the piece list before ordering.
Use a reliable tape measure and avoid rounding a measurement just to make the list look cleaner.
Overlay and hinge boring matter
Overlay describes how far the door covers the cabinet opening or face frame. Hinge boring depends on the hinge system and door orientation. If you are reusing hinges or changing hinge types, confirm those details before production.
If you are uncertain, do not guess. Take photos and call so the order can be discussed before the doors are machined.
Drawer fronts and paired doors
Measure drawer fronts as separate pieces. For paired doors, confirm the total opening, the desired reveal between doors and the overlay plan rather than copying one size blindly across the cabinet.
Keep a written piece list and verify the quantity against the kitchen before placing the order.
Frequently asked questions
Should I measure the cabinet opening or the existing door?
If the existing door fits correctly and you are keeping the same overlay, measuring the finished door is often simplest. If the door is missing or the overlay is changing, calculate from the opening and hinge plan.
What order should I write dimensions in?
Use width × height consistently on every line of the piece list.
Should I round my measurements?
Do not intentionally round measurements. Record the actual size as accurately as your measuring method allows.
Can I order different door sizes together?
Yes. Mixed sizes are normal for a made-to-order cabinet door project.
Ready to move from planning to a quote?
Doors start at $59.99. Gather your sizes and selections, then call when you are ready to confirm the project.