Hinges and door opening angles
The hinge affects access and possible contact with an adjacent wall or cabinet. Inner drawers behind a door need adequate clearance; not every wide-angle hinge provides the same opening. Ask the designer to show the door and drawer paths and check the actual hinge specification and quantity for the door’s dimensions and weight.
Under-mount or side-mount runners?
Runner systems differ in fixing position, clearance requirements, extension and adjustment. An under-mount system can hide the mechanism, while a side-mounted system may suit another application. Mounting position alone does not establish load capacity or quality. Compare the complete system, including drawer dimensions and specified fixings.
Load ratings are product-specific
| Use | Data to request | Layout consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Cutlery and utensils | Rating, runner length and extension | Accessible internal divisions |
| Heavy cookware | System rating and drawer dimension limits | Contents and drawer-box weight as defined by the manufacturer |
| Pull-out pantry | Complete-system capacity and shelf distribution | Fixings, door opening and movement path |
| Inner drawer behind a door | Opening clearance and hinge compatibility | Full-opening check before design approval |
Do not transfer a rating between similar-looking products. Check the data sheet, mounting conditions and whether the stated capacity includes the drawer box.
Overhead lift systems
Systems may fold a door, lift it or move it above the cabinet front. Select for cabinet height, space above, front weight and the user’s reach. The open door must not conflict with the ceiling or lighting. Follow the manufacturer’s adjustment instructions; do not dismantle a lift or support mechanism yourself.
Soft closing, push opening and electrical assistance
Soft closing slows closing movement; push opening can suit handleless fronts. Electrical assistance needs a power supply and service access. Not every product combines all these functions. Discuss wet or occupied hands and children’s use, and test the actual sample for comfort.
Fixing hardware to the cabinet structure
Stability depends on compatible fixings, specified fixing positions and a level cabinet. There is no universal screw for every system. Ask the kitchen installer to follow the hardware instructions for the cabinet material. Document abnormal movement or rubbing after handover and seek adjustment rather than applying extra load or changing screws at random.
Reading test information
A test-standard name or opening-cycle figure does not demonstrate performance for every similarly described hinge. Request the manufacturer, model and relevant data or test document, checking that it covers the offered part and use. Corrosion protection still requires appropriate cleaning and moisture control; a laboratory test does not create a time-based warranty.
A useful showroom check
- Open and close the door or drawer normally.
- Notice rubbing, collisions and ease of reaching the handle.
- Request the model, load information and care instructions.
- Discuss your actual storage needs before adding accessories.
Do not press down on an open drawer to test it. Start with the storage accessories guide and compare integrated kitchen solutions.
Frequently asked questions
Can existing kitchen hinges be upgraded?
Sometimes, after dimensions, drilling, door and cabinet materials and part compatibility are checked. Seek an assessment before buying or removing hardware.
Why does a cabinet door sag?
Adjustment, fixings, excessive weight or a damaged component can contribute. The actual cause needs inspection.
A product-data reference
Blum TANDEM product information illustrates how selection relates to drawer dimensions, extension and capacity. It is an example of reading specifications, not a claim that this part is supplied in every Nano kitchen.
From planning to a suitable choice
For the next planning details, read Aluminum Kitchen Maintenance and Cleaning Guide: How to Maintain Shine and Quality.
When installation is complete
Use the kitchen handover checklist to compare the installation with the approved layout, record observations and collect care instructions.
Explore Nano kitchens for an overview of our design and installation services.