How to Adjust Cabinet Hinges

Many modern concealed cabinet hinges have separate screws for side-to-side, in-and-out, and vertical adjustment. Small changes can straighten uneven door gaps without removing the door.

Tools you will probably need

• Phillips or Pozidriv screwdriver matched to the hinge

Materials

• replacement hinge only if one is damaged

Project steps

1. Identify which hinge screw controls the direction you need to move the door.
2. Make a quarter-turn adjustment on one hinge at a time.
3. Close the door and check the gap before making another adjustment.
4. Tighten mounting screws after the alignment is correct.

Common mistakes

• Turning several screws at once and losing track of the original position
• Overtightening into particleboard
• Assuming a bent hinge can be adjusted back to perfect alignment

When to call someone

Professional help is rarely required, but damaged cabinet boxes, stripped screw holes, or expensive inset cabinetry can justify a cabinet specialist.

Project costs and times are rough planning estimates. Product instructions, local codes, home construction, and actual conditions take priority.