Converting face frame cabinets to frameless

Just to clarify…the conversion in question pertains to the cabinet refacing process. So the question is “why would someone need to convert face frame cabinets to frameless cabinets when refacing?” I will be happy to give you that answer after a few observations:

OBSERVATIONS Converting face frame cabinets to frameless.

Still very popular in the U.S., but not half as much in Canada, Faceframe cabinets known as “Traditional” appear to be better quality than the Frameless cabinets known as “European” due to the exposed solid wood frame that shows strength, solidity and craftsmanship that belong to the past.

Is this always the case? Not always.

Traditional cabinets are not always better built than European cabinets. In some cases the frame is made out of plywood and inside, very thin (sometimes even 3/8″) non-adjustable shelves don’t help to optimize the space. Cabinet doors in these cases are usually made out of 1/2″ plywood, showing a hugely inferior quality.

TO THE POINT

If traditional cabinets are not always (but most of the time) better quality than European cabinets why would a homeowner feel the need to convert? …….It is mainly to change the look.

Exposed hinges, solid wood frame, and big spaces between the doors are great ingredients when combined with a detailed door and classic handle if the goal is to achieve a classic, glamorous, elegant and expensive, traditional looking kitchen.

If the goal is to get a minimalistic, clean, ultra-modern looking kitchen using a slab door, existing face frame cabinets will definitely need the conversion. Otherwise, a slab door with exposed hinges will look as dysfunctional as driving a Ferrari through a snowstorm 😉

HOW TO MAKE THE CONVERSION

1. When refacing, order new doors big enough to cover almost the entire frame leaving only 1/4″ to 3/8″ gaps.

2. Get special hidden hinges with exchangeable plates that will allow various degrees of overlapping the frame.

One Last Thought…

P.S. The frame will be hidden by the new doors, but it is still a good idea to veneer or laminate the exposed areas entirely.