Whether to Bevel the Edge of Cabinet Doors

When would it be wise to taper the back side of a cabinet door to permit closing and opening without binding? June 12, 2014

Question (WOODWEB Member) :
Does anyone taper the pull side of inset doors so at the apex the door will not hit the FF? I have 3/32nd's reveal, 13/16 doors and FF and am wondering if this is necessary? Secondly I was told by a fellow more experienced cabinet maker that if you make your reveals 1/8 around doors/drawers the paint buildup will shrink your reveal to 3/32nd. That seams significant even with thick milk paint and also seems to be pushing it for euro hinges w/5mm bore distance. Any input would be appreciated.

Forum Responses
(Cabinet and Millwork Installation Forum)
From Contributor B:
This is an interesting post. I appreciate learning new things on this forum. I am puzzled though why you feel using a Euro hinge presents a particular challenge with this application (with or without a bevel).

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From contributor A:
The typical standard with five part wood doors is 3/32 on all sides. If you had an extremely wide door over 20" you might think about leaving 1/8" on the knob side. Likewise, french pairs are typically given an 1/8" margin to account for the extra width and swing. Occasionally, we might put a very slight back bevel on a pair of wide doors - never on a single.

Contributor B: He is concerned with expansion of the door size after fabrication/installation. The type of hinge is really irrelevant. I do not plan on going back to each house at a later date to adjust the hinges 1/32" each summer and winter. Paint doesn't make a difference unless you slather it on.

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From contributor M:
Whatever comes off in sanding goes back in paint. Cut the gap that you want. I, like most, use 3/32nds", and only back bevel for parliament hinges or pass through lazy susan’s. Draw it out two times or three times scale, then swing your radius from the hinge pivot; you'll see if back beveling is necessary.

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From Contributor H:
The beveled edge is an excellent idea in high-humidity environments. If the room is pretty well climate controlled, then it tends not to be as much of an issue.