The basic math for calculating door sizes relies on adding the desired overlay to the opening size, or subtracting the clearance gap for inset doors. When working with double doors, the total width is split in half after accounting for the gap between them.
A frameless cabinet has an opening of 24 inches wide by 30 inches tall. The design calls for two full overlay doors with a 0.5-inch overlay and a 0.125-inch gap between them.
Height is simple: 30 + (0.5 × 2) = 31 inches tall.
For width: add the total overlay to the opening (24 + 1 = 25), subtract the center gap (25 - 0.125 = 24.875), and divide by two. Each door is 12.4375 (12.44) inches wide.
The arithmetic is perfect, but physical hardware can have quirks. Validate your calculation against these factors:
- HINGESEnsure your chosen hinge and mounting plate combination can actually support the calculated overlay based on your cabinet wall thickness.
- EDGEBANDIf you are applying thick edgebanding (e.g., 2mm or 3mm PVC) after cutting, you must subtract the total banding thickness from the final panel dimensions before sending it to the saw.
- REVEALSCheck the required reveal against adjacent cabinets. If cabinets are banked tightly together, an oversized overlay might cause door binding when opening.