What is the typical hinge spacing for face-frame cabinet doors (top and bottom) and why is it important?

• A. About 1 inch from the top edge.
• B. About 2 inches from the top edge for the top hinge and 2 inches from the bottom for the bottom hinge.
• C. Commonly about 2.5 inches from the top edge for the top hinge and 2.5 inches from the bottom edge for the bottom hinge with consistent spacing between.
• D. At the center of the cabinet opening.

Answer: (C)

Placing hinges with even, moderate distance from the edges is key to a properly functioning face-frame cabinet door. When the top hinge sits about 2.5 inches down from the top edge and the bottom hinge sits about 2.5 inches up from the bottom edge, you land on solid wood for fasteners, avoid edge tear-out, and give the door a predictable swing. This symmetrical arrangement also keeps the hinges well within the frame so the door can close evenly and sit flush, with consistent gaps around the edges.

Keeping the spacing between hinges the same as you position them helps the door stay square in the opening and reduces the chance of binding or misalignment over time. If hinges are placed too close to an edge or too far from the edges, the mounting screws can loosen or the door may rub or sit off-center.

So, the typical spacing is about 2.5 inches from the top edge for the top hinge and 2.5 inches from the bottom edge for the bottom hinge, with the gap between hinges kept consistent.