Door Overlays

The overlay of a cabinet door describes the way in which the door fits onto the cabinet frame. Typically there are two options: full overlay and standard overlay.

Full overlay is when there is only a minimal gap between cabinet door fronts so that you cannot see the cabinet boxes when doors and drawers are closed. Typically, there is 1/4” to 3/8” spacing between the doors. This option requires hardware and can be a bit more expensive. It gives a clean and contemporary look that some homeowners prefer.

With standard overlay, more of the cabinet frame is visible around the doors and drawers, when they are closed. Typically there is a 1” to 1 1/2” space between closed doors. Standard overlay is an attractive option which can be used without hardware. It can also lower the overall cost of cabinets as this style uses less material.

FYI  Inset doors lay flush within the frame or box of the cabinet. The door lies in the cabinet opening, so that the cabinet door and front edge of the cabinet are on the same plane.