Fabricating or buying a new wardrobe can be an easy task until a person decides between hinged or sliding doors. Choosing between hinged or sliding cupboard doors is a difficult task. It is so because these two doors types are commonly used and has their advantage. But you have to make a choice. With this article, we have listed the comparison between the hinged and sliding doors.
But, before heading towards the comparison between these two types of doors, let’s understand what hinged and sliding cupboard doors are. Hinged doors are fixed doors which has hinges on the edges. On the other side, the sliding doors are not fixed and can be easily moved. There are tracks at the bottom of the door, and the panels can be moved on them. Now, let’s understand the difference between hinged and sliding cupboard doors.
Hinged doors Vs Sliding doors
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Space Requirement for Opening
. While opening the cupboards, everyone knows that it needs clearance space. However, it is important only in the case of hinged doors as they are going to open outwards. But, with the installation of sliding cupboard doors, there is no requirement for clearance space. This is because the door panels here are subject to a sliding mechanism.
Verdict: Hinged doors are suitable only for the big rooms. In the case of small rooms or less clearance space, it is recommended to go for sliding space. This will be convenient in this case.
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Width of the Door
With the door installation, one should know that width of the door can also be considered. Sometimes, as per the room interiors, broad wardrobe doors suit better while in some narrow suits better. Even the wardrobe width matters in this case. Therefore, choose a door that suits your interiors. The hinged doors are not so broad, and the width cannot be increased from 600 mm. In comparison, the sliding doors can have a width greater than 600 mm.
Verdict: If a person prefers wide cupboard doors, then go for sliding cupboard doors and vice-versa. And if the width of your wardrobe is broad, then prefer sliding doors to avoid inconvenience.
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Cost
Cost is going to be the biggest factor for choosing a sliding or hinged door. While installing hinged doors, the number of hinges required is more as compared to the sliding doors. In sliding doors, the labour cost gets reduced due to the large width doors. Therefore, sliding doors are cost-effective than hinged ones.
Verdict: Preferring a sliding door can be a cost-effective decision. However, it depends on the material of hardware and fittings.
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Mirror or Glass usage on Shutters
Many people want mirrors or glass on the wardrobe panes. But in the case of hinged doors, it is difficult to fix glass on the shutter. It is so because glass can be heavy for the hinges. While in the case of sliding doors, it is easy to fix mirrors. Due to this easiness, it is meant for flexibility and customizations.
Verdict: Anyone wanting a mirror or glass attached to the wardrobe panels should go for the sliding cupboard doors.
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Maintenance
Maintenance in the case of hinged doors, is very easy as it is easy to clean. Even in the case of repairs, hinged doors will not create problems. While in the case of sliding doors, it is important to keep them clean. Otherwise, the channel may get jam which can be troublesome.
Verdict: From the point of view of maintenance, hinged doors should be preferred.
Conclusion
Cupboard doors are a one-time investment, and this work is not done regularly. Therefore, choose a door which is suitable as per one’s convenience. Sliding cupboard doors is a better option than hinged doors, but a little maintenance is required for their smooth functioning.