The Builder’s Guide to Ordering Custom Cabinet Doors: Specs That Prevent Costly Mistakes

Builders recognize that cabinetry is one of the most visible features in any kitchen, bathroom, or custom home build. But even the most seasoned contractors occasionally run into preventable issues — mismeasured doors, incorrect overlay, hinge boring misalignment, material confusion, or simple communication gaps with suppliers.

Custom cabinet doors elevate the look and feel of a home, but because they are made to precision specs, the quality of the order depends entirely on accuracy. A 1/8-inch mistake can lead to installation delays, reorders, unexpected costs, and frustrated clients.

This guide breaks down the essential specifications builders should double-check before placing an order for custom cabinet doors, giving you a smoother project flow, fewer callbacks, and confidence in every installation.

Why Specs Matter More With Custom Cabinet Doors

Unlike stock doors, which are mass-produced to standard sizes, custom doors are built to your exact measurements and configuration. That means cabinet door shops like Evans Cabinet & Door rely strictly on the information you provide.

Getting specs right ensures:

• Faster lead times

• Better installation fit

• Fewer reorders

• Cleaner reveals and more professional results

• Predictable costs

  
  

A little preparation on the front end leads to a flawless finish on the back end.

1. Accurate Cabinet Openings: The Foundation of the Order

Everything begins with measuring the cabinet openings. Whether you’re working with framed or frameless cabinets, precise openings are non-negotiable.

Always measure:

• Width (inside opening)

• Height (inside opening)

• Face frame thickness (if applicable)

• Any areas where cabinets are out of square

  
  

Measure each opening individually — don’t assume identical cabinets are the same size. Even factory-built cabinets can vary slightly.

Pro Tip: Measure with a reliable tape, then verify with a second measuring tool, such as a folding rule or laser, for confirmation.

2. Choose Overlay or Inset Before Finalizing Measurements

A surprisingly common issue occurs when builders measure cabinet doors without knowing the overlay style.

Overlay Doors

These sit on top of the cabinet frame, partially or fully covering it. Custom overlay amounts vary based on:

• Hinge type

• Door thickness

• Desired reveal

• Design style (modern = tighter gaps; traditional = more separation)

  
  

Inset Doors

Shown entirely inside the frame — requiring exact measurements and stable, straight cabinets.

Why this matters:

Your overlay directly affects the final width and height of the door. One oversight can lead to doors rubbing against each other, overlapping incorrectly, or leaving excessive gaps.

3. Hinge Boring: One of the Most Common Mistake Points

When ordering doors, hinge boring specs must be stated clearly.

You’ll need to identify:

• Hinge type (standard, soft-close, compact, frameless, face-frame)

• Boring distance (commonly 3mm, 5mm, or 6mm from the edge)

• Cup size (typically 35mm)

• Hinge overlay amount

• Number of hinges per door

  
  

If hinge boring isn't specified correctly, the door may not align with existing cabinet frames or pre-installed hardware — leading to costly on-site adjustments.

Pro Tip: Send a photo of the existing hinge type or a sample hinge whenever possible.

4. Select the Right Material for the Build

Material choice affects durability, longevity, and cost.

Solid Wood

• Best for stained finishes

• Highly durable

• Can expand/contract with humidity

  
  

MDF

• Best for painted finishes

• Smooth surface

• Minimizes grain telegraphing

• Less prone to warping in painted applications

  
  

Plywood or Hybrid Panels

• Lightweight

• Durable

• Excellent for commercial applications

  
  

Builders should consider the environment (such as kitchens, bathrooms, and humid climates), client expectations, and the type of finish when selecting materials.

5. Door Style Influences Specs Too

Shaker, slab, raised panel, and mitered doors all have specific building requirements. For example:

• Shaker rails and stiles may affect the minimum width of the door

• Mitered styles require precise measurements and humidity control

• Slab doors need extra attention to material stability

  
  

Providing the style name or reference helps ensure that the finished product matches the desired look.

6. Don’t Forget About the Finish

Finishes can change dimensions slightly, especially thick coatings or multi-step applications. Builders should consider:

• Paint vs. stain

• Sheen level

• Topcoat durability

• Color consistency across batches

  
  

Partnering with a custom door shop that handles finishing in-house, such as Evans Cabinet & Door, ensures a more controlled and uniform result.

7. Communicate Any Special Requirements

These details often make or break an order:

• Doors for appliance panels

• Decorative end panels

• Glass-ready doors

• Lazy Susan or angle-front doors

• Beaded or decorative inside profiles

• Special edge treatments

  
  

The more detail provided upfront, the smoother the production process.

Final Thoughts: Precision Saves Money and Headaches

Builders juggle tight schedules, client expectations, and dozens of moving parts. Ordering custom cabinet doors shouldn’t add complexity — but accuracy is essential.

By double-checking the key specs above, you’ll reduce the risk of:

• Reorders

• Install delays

• Misaligned doors

• Poor fit

• Unexpected project costs

  
  

Evans Cabinet & Door is committed to helping builders get the right product the first time. With expert support, consistent craftsmanship, and tailored guidance, we make your cabinetry projects smoother from start to finish.