Cabinet Construction and Doors 411

Cabinet selection can feel at times overwhelming with so many options offered. Cabinetry needs to keep up with our active lifestyles. It needs to be well built, reliable as well as functional. Cabinetry is also an extension of our style and décor. It is important to recognize the terms used when shopping for cabinets.

Cabinet Construction

There are 3 types of cabinet box construction. Framed, Frameless and Inset

• Framed boxes- Considered the most traditional, framed cabinet boxes have a 1.5 inch to 2 inch wood frame in front of the outer edge of the cabinet box called a face frame. Carpenters love the rigidity of framed boxes. Framed cabinets attach at the door hinges to the frame face and shelves. It may be adjustable.
• Frameless boxes- Considered the more contemporary or “European” looking of cabinet construction. It does not have any obstructions such as the frame providing easier access into your cabinet shelves and maximizes your space. Frameless boxes are usually 13 inches deep compared to the framed cabinet 12 inches, providing you with more storage.
• Inset Boxes- It is considered the most “craftsman” of cabinet boxes. Inset doors and drawers sit inside the cabinet frame opening. It lays flush to the cabinet box.

Cabinet Doors

There are 2 types of cabinet doors. Inset doors and Overlay doors.

• Inset Cabinet Doors- The doors and drawer fronts are set inside the box, with no overlap on the face frame. This type of cabinet construction gives a full view of the cabinet frame. It has minimal spacing or gaps between the cabinet components. Inset cabinets can be traditional or modern in style depending on the door selection. A knob or pull is required to open the cabinet door.
• Overlay Cabinet Door- The doors and drawer fronts lay over the face frame of the cabinets. Overlay door are in available in partial or full overlay. Full overlay doors cover the entire front of the cabinet box. Very little of the frame is visible. Partial overlay doors cover only part of the cabinet box front, with a small portion left showing, providing a more traditional cabinet look.

Having the knowledge of box and door construction will make your cabinet selection process more seamless. Brooklyn Tile and Design has all types of cabinet constructions for you to select.