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When planning your kitchen remodel, the cabinets are one of the most important components of the renovation. Your cabinets take up a great deal of linear space, and help set the tone for the visual aesthetic of your kitchen. Functionality is also very important, and durability and overall cost are also factors in choosing between inset and overlay cabinets.
This guide will show you the difference between the two styles of cabinets, highlight the pros and cons, and highlight the different options for both inset and overlay cabinets.
Inset cabinets feature doors that sit flush with the cabinet frame. This is a classic style of old cabinetry, reminiscent of a time when everything was handmade, and not mass produced. The doors sit inside the frame of the cabinet opening, instead of being hinged to the outside of the frame. Inset cabinetry is dependent on precise measurements, to make everything look even and level. This type of vintage cabinetry is popular in farmhouse kitchens, French kitchens, and country kitchens. Inset cabinets have a clean, refined aesthetic that is subtle, yet beautiful.
Overlay cabinets are a style of cabinetry where the door is hinged to the outside of the cabinet face. The cabinet door completely covers the frame. Overlay cabinets are a more modern invention, they didn’t appear until after World War II. Today, they are the most popular type of cabinet — most homes feature overlay cabinets.
There are two different subcategories of overlay cabinets: full overlay cabinets and partial overlay cabinets.
Full overlay cabinets feature doors that completely cover the face of the cabinet frame. This creates a streamlined, seamless look for your kitchen, leaving minimal gaps between the cabinet faces, and the doors and drawers. This creates a modern, contemporary look. Full overlay cabinets maximize storage space, using every square inch of the cabinet interior. These cabinets generally come with door handles and drawer pulls.
Partial overlay cabinets have doors which cover the cabinet opening, with a visible border exposing some of the cabinet frame. This style leaves room around the edges of the cabinet door with finger room to pull the doors open. Partial overlay cabinets are a more traditional look which some homeowners enjoy. Partial overlay cabinets generally cost less than full overlay cabinets, and the measurements of the doors do not need to be as precise as full overlay.
Inset cabinets have many characteristics that make them perfect fo some kitchens, but not the right fit for others.
Overlay cabinets are seen in many modern homes, here are the positives and negatives to consider.
Inset kitchen cabinets come in various door styles, including:
Overlay cabinets also have a range of styles including:
Here are some things to think about when you choose kitchen cabinets for your home renovation.
The big choice between overlay and inset cabinets comes down to the visual presentation and how it fits with the kitchen remodel. Inset is best for a classic, timeless look. Overlay or partial overlay work well for contemporary kitchen designs.
Overlay cabinets are a bit less expensive. Inset costs a little more due to the precision, labor. and craftsmanship that is required to install them correctly.
Overlay cabinets are much easier to install, they don’t require the precise measurements and expertise that inset cabinets do.
In extremely humid climates, the doors of inset cabinets can warp slightly, and they may need occasional adjustment. Overlay cabinets are easier to maintain in humid climates and are less prone to bending and warping.
Inset cabinets, when built correctly, can last for decades. Overly cabinets are fairly durable, but not quite as much as inset cabinets
Overlay cabinets are low maintenance, inset cabinets may need the occasional adjustment due to use, warping due to humidity, etc.
Inset cabinets have very slightly less room than overlay cabinets – maybe three-quarters of an inch to one inch of horizontal space.
For smaller kitchens, inset cabinets can make the space look more streamlined, making it appear more spacious. Overlay cabinets take up a bit more horizontal space.
Whether you need brand new kitchen cabinets, cabinet refacing, or complete kitchen remodeling, you’re in great hands with JC Construction & Remodeling. We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners in the Sacramento Valley with home remodeling, and we’ve just opened the largest kitchen and bath showroom in Northern California. If you need expert advice, reach out to our team for a free consultation, we’re looking forward to helping you.
JC Construction & Remodeling is more than just a construction company; we are your dedicated partners in transforming your vision into reality. With over a decade of industry experience, our locally owned and operated business has honed its craft, delivering exceptional home improvement solutions to our valued clients. Integrity and honesty are the cornerstones of our approach, guiding every interaction and decision we make. We understand that each project is unique.
Whether you’re looking to renovate your entire home or simply need a few repairs, our team is equipped with the expertise and resources to exceed your expectations. At JC Construction & Remodeling, quality is not just a goal; it’s a standard we uphold in every aspect of our work. Specializing in general home improvement and remodeling, we take immense pride in the craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines our projects.
