How to Measure for Replacement Kitchen Doors

Why Accurate Measurement Matters

When it comes to kitchen upgrades with adhesive coverings, poorly fitted doors are immediately noticeable. Misalignments, uneven gaps, or overlaps don’t just affect the aesthetics—they compromise your credibility as an installer. Precision at the measurement stage means:

• Fewer errors during installation

• Better alignment of patterns or finishes

• A smooth, high-end finish your clients will notice

• Fewer reorders or adjustments

Understand the Existing Setup

Before picking up a tape measure, take a few moments to assess the kitchen:

• Are the doors standard overlay or inset?

• Are they mounted on face-frame cabinets or frameless units?

• Is the client replacing just the doors or planning a full vinyl wrap?

This context influences what and how you measure.

The Tools You’ll Need

Don’t rely on a basic tape measure alone. For a job that reflects your expertise, come equipped with:

• A steel measuring tape (at least 5 meters)

• A notepad or tablet to log sizes

• A spacer or measuring block to check consistent gaps

• A spirit level to check for tilt or misalignment

Measuring the Door Itself

If you’re simply replacing a door with a new one in the same dimensions, follow these steps:

• Measure the height from the top edge to the bottom, in millimeters

• Measure the width from left to right, also in millimeters

• Check diagonals to ensure the door is square. If the two diagonals don’t match, note it—it could affect the fit

• Measure thickness only if a new style of wrap or profile will be added

Tip: Always double-check your numbers. Write down each measurement as soon as you take it—don’t trust memory.

Measuring the Cabinet Opening

If you're replacing doors without keeping the originals, measure the cabinet opening instead:

• Width: inside edge to inside edge of the cabinet box

• Height: from the bottom of the opening to the top inside edge

• Gap space: note any gaps or filler panels that need to be considered

For standard overlays, you’ll usually add a specific margin to the cabinet opening (commonly +3mm on all sides) to ensure proper coverage and clearance.

Consider the Hinge Placement

Hinge positions matter. Misplaced holes mean time lost on-site, or worse—doors that can’t be installed.

• Measure from the top edge of the door to the center of the hinge hole

• Do the same for the bottom hinge

• Note the diameter of the hinge hole (standard is 35mm, but verify)

If you’re using pre-drilled doors or working with a manufacturer, this information is essential.

Don’t Forget Drawer Fronts

Drawers often vary in height but are typically uniform in width. Note the exact height of each front, even if they look identical. This ensures your wraps or replacements align perfectly across the whole kitchen.

Label Everything Clearly

When you’re dealing with 10, 15, or 30+ doors and drawer fronts, labeling is key. Use:

• Cabinet numbers (e.g., D1, D2 for doors, DR1, DR2 for drawers)

• Orientation (left/right hung)

• Notes on defects or unusual measurements

Clear documentation saves time when ordering, cutting, or applying adhesive.

Tips for Installers Using Adhesive Coverings

Working with adhesive films like Cover Styl requires additional care:

• Avoid rounding measurements—even 1mm can lead to alignment issues, especially on glossy or patterned finishes

• Account for wrap clearance—the thickness of the adhesive adds a fraction of a millimeter to the edge

• Allow margin for trimming—especially if wrapping door edges or applying edge banding

A well-measured door speeds up the vinyl application process and guarantees a cleaner final look.

Summary Checklist

Before leaving the site or sending dimensions for cutting or wrapping, make sure you:

• Measure each door and drawer front in millimeters

• Check diagonals for squareness

• Log hinge positions accurately

• Label all parts with orientation and cabinet number

• Include wrap allowances in your specs

• Double-check everything

By following these steps, you not only ensure a perfect fit—you showcase your attention to detail and elevate your reputation as a skilled installer. With the right approach and the right tools, measuring replacement kitchen doors becomes a mark of your expertise.