How to Measure Your Overlay

Measuring overlay correctly ensures you purchase hinges with the right dimensions. Follow this step-by-step guide.

What is Overlay?

Overlay is the amount the door extends beyond the cabinet opening on the hinge side. Full overlay doors cover most of the cabinet frame. Half overlay doors share a center stile with an adjacent door.

Tools You'll Need

A measuring tape or ruler, a pencil, and the door you'll be hanging. A combination square helps with edge measurements.

Measure the Opening

Measure the width of the cabinet opening at the hinge side. For face frame cabinets, measure from the inside edge of the frame to the outside edge.

Measure the Door

Measure the door width. Subtract the opening width from the door width, then divide by 2 for single doors or by 1 for paired doors sharing a center stile.

Determine Overlay Type

Full overlay: 1/2" to 9/16" overlay. Half overlay: 1/4" to 3/8" overlay. Inset: door sits inside the opening with 1/16" to 1/8" reveal all around.