Full Overlay vs. Partial Overlay: A Comparison
Are you unsure what the difference is between full-overlay and partial-overlay cabinets? You’re not the only one.
Many homeowners get stuck choosing the right cabinet style during a kitchen or bathroom remodel. Picking the wrong one can throw off your whole design or add costs you didn’t expect.
In this blog, you’ll learn what each term means, how they look, the pros and cons, and which option might work best for your space and budget.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what to ask for and what to avoid. If you’re planning a DIY upgrade or hiring a contractor, understanding overlays could save you time, money, and design headaches.
Let’s get started!
What is a Cabinet Overlay?
A cabinet overlay is the extent to which the cabinet door covers the face frame of the cabinet box. There are two main types of cabinet styles: overlay and inset.
In overlay cabinets, the doors sit on top of the frame. In inset cabinets, the doors fit inside the frame like a puzzle piece.
Overlay styles can be either full or partial, depending on how much of the frame is covered. Full overlay doors cover almost the entire frame, while partial overlays leave part of the frame showing.
To understand overlays better, it helps to know a bit about cabinet construction. Most cabinets have a box, a face frame, and doors.
The face frame is the front part that supports the structure. The overlay style determines how the doors line up with this frame. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference in how your cabinets look and work.
Full Overlay Cabinets
Full-overlay cabinets are a popular choice in modern kitchens and bathrooms. By covering most or all of the cabinet frame, they offer a clean, seamless look.
A full overlay means the cabinet doors and drawers cover nearly the entire face frame. Only a small gap is left between doors, which gives the cabinets a smooth, uniform appearance.
Appearance and Design
This style creates a sleek, modern look with minimal visible lines between doors. It works well in contemporary, minimalist, and transitional kitchen designs. Full overlays are also common with frameless cabinet construction.
Full Overlay Cabinets: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Smooth, high-end appearance
- More access to cabinet space
- Easy to match with modern styles
Cons:
- Usually costs more than partial overlay
- Requires precise installation
- Less room for error with hinges and hardware
Partial Overlay Cabinets
Partial overlay cabinets are a more traditional option that leaves part of the cabinet frame visible. They’re common in older homes but are still widely used today.
With a partial overlay, cabinet doors and drawers cover only part of the face frame. This leaves a visible gap between doors and around the edges, exposing more of the frame.
Appearance and Design
Partial overlay cabinets create a more classic or casual look. You’ll often see them in traditional, rustic, or budget-friendly kitchen designs. The visible frame adds definition to each cabinet, which some homeowners prefer.
Full Overlay Cabinets: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- More affordable
- Easier to install
- Good for traditional styles
Cons:
- Exposed cabinet frame
- Less seamless appearance
- Slightly less storage access
Partial overlay is a solid choice if you’re working within a budget or prefer a more classic cabinet style.
Full vs. Partial Overlay: Key Differences
Choosing between full and partial overlay cabinets depends on your budget, style, and use of space. Each type has its strengths, so knowing the key differences can help you make a smarter choice.
Here’s a simple comparison to break it down:
| Feature | Full Overlay | Partial Overlay |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Usually more expensive | More budget-friendly |
| Look | Sleek and modern with minimal gaps | Traditional with visible cabinet frame |
| Storage Space | Maximized access to interior | Slightly less access due to smaller doors |
| Installation | Requires precise alignment and spacing | More forgiving and easier to install |
When to Choose Full Overlay or Partial Overlay
The right choice depends on your budget, design goals, and how your space is set up. Here’s how to decide what fits best for your project:
Budget-Based Decision
- Go with partial overlay if you’re working with a tighter budget.
- Choose full overlay if you want a more custom, high-end finish and can spend a bit more.
Style Match: Modern vs. Traditional
- Full overlay works best with modern, minimalist, or contemporary styles thanks to its smooth, seamless look.
- Partial overlay fits better with traditional, rustic, or farmhouse designs where visible framing adds charm.
Space and Layout Considerations
- Full overlay gives more room inside the cabinet, which is helpful in small kitchens or tight spaces.
- A partial overlay might be better for larger kitchens where maximizing storage space isn’t as important.
Think about what matters most: cost, look, or layout before making your pick.
Comparing Overlay Cabinets, Inset, and Frameless Styles
Once you’ve narrowed down your cabinet options, you might encounter other styles, like inset or frameless.
Here’s how these compare to overlay cabinets and when each one might make more sense for your project.
Why Choose Overlay?
Overlay cabinets, both full and partial, offer the most flexibility. You can choose how much of the frame is covered, which can change the overall style.
They’re often easier to install and give you good design control without breaking the budget.
Choose overlay if:
- You want a balance between style and cost
- You’re replacing cabinet doors only
- You prefer a quicker, more forgiving installation
Why Consider Inset?
Inset cabinets offer a premium, built-in look. The doors are flush with the cabinet frame, giving everything a tailored, furniture-like feel. However, this style usually costs more and requires perfect measurements.
Choose inset if:
- You’re after a timeless, high-end look
- You want something unique or custom
- Your project budget allows room for precision work
When to Go Frameless
Frameless cabinets skip the face frame entirely. This allows for maximum interior storage and a clean, minimalist exterior. You’ll often find this style in modern European kitchens.
Choose frameless if:
- You have a small space and want to make the most of it
- You prefer a modern, streamlined design
- You’re building new cabinets from scratch
Installation and Measurement Tips
Getting the right cabinet overlay depends on measuring carefully and choosing the right hardware. Here’s a quick guide to help you get it right the first time.
How to Measure for Cabinet Overlay
1. Measure the cabinet opening: Use a tape measure to find the width and height of the cabinet box opening.
2. Measure the current door (if replacing): This tells you how much the door overlaps the opening. Subtract the box size from the door size to figure out the overlay.
3. Decide on full or partial overlay.
For a full overlay, plan for the door to cover most of the face frame, leaving only a small gap between doors (usually 1/8″).
For partial overlay, allow more frame to show; common overlays are 1/2″ to 1″.
4. Account for double-door cabinets: To avoid rubbing, leave space between the two doors, usually about 1/8″.
Watch the video below for a clear guide on measuring cabinet overlays. It’s a great visual aid.
Common Hardware Considerations
- Hinges: Full overlay cabinets need specific hinges (usually concealed or Euro-style) to allow smooth opening with minimal gaps.
- Clearance: Partial overlays give you more room for error, while full overlays require precise hinge adjustment.
- Knobs and pulls: Consider placement carefully to avoid bumping adjacent doors or drawers.
Taking the time to measure and plan properly helps avoid issues later, especially with door alignment and hardware fit.
Are Partial Overlay Cabinets Outdated?
Partial overlay cabinets have been a staple in traditional kitchen design. They feature doors that only cover part of the cabinet frame, leaving gaps visible.
Design trends today lean toward smoother, cleaner styles. Many designers prefer full overlay or inset cabinets for a modern, seamless look.
The exposed frame of partial overlays can feel dated to some. That’s why they’re less common in new builds or remodels aiming for a contemporary vibe.
Still, they’re a great choice for classic or budget-friendly kitchens. With the right hardware and colors, they can still look stylish and intentional.
In the end, it’s about your style and what works for your space.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between full overlay and partial overlay cabinets depends on your style, budget, and use of space.
Full overlays offer a modern look with more storage access, while partial overlays offer a classic design at a lower cost.
Think about what matters most to you (appearance, ease of installation, or price) and use that to guide your choice. Both options can work beautifully when matched with the right design.
Ready to decide? Use what you’ve learned here to choose the cabinet style that best suits your home.
Want more simple guides like this? Check out the rest of our blogs for more tips on cabinets, design, and home upgrades.
