This short guide explains when a switch of door ranges between makers works straight away, and when a small tweak is needed for a professional finish over the years.
We examine sizes, hinge patterns and finishes so you can see whether standard cabinet heights and widths match across brands. Common highline sizes such as heights around 715 mm and widths like 300, 400, 500 and 600 mm often align, but thickness and hinge drilling can differ.
Practical advice covers how to measure cup centres, where to drill new holes cleanly, and how to compare price and quality between slab, Shaker and integrated-handle ranges such as B&Q Stevia and similar Wickes flat pack offerings.
Delivery and service notes are included, from Home Delivery and Click & Collect options to coordinating wren delivery when mixing suppliers for appliances and a Double Oven Tall Housing Unit 600.
Key Takeaways
- Measure hinge cup centres and door thickness before you order online.
- Many cabinet widths match, but hinge patterns may need slight modification.
- Compare prices and reviews for entry level versus premium ranges.
- Delivery options and service affect timing when using multiple suppliers.
- Mixing brands can save money while keeping a cohesive look if you check sizes first.
The short answer: can you mix Wickes doors with B&Q units today?
Sizing usually aligns between common suppliers, but small hinge offsets can create big headaches.
In many homes a replacement door will sit straight onto an existing carcass when width, height and thickness match. Typical GoodHome door heights are about 715 mm and common widths include 300–600 mm, with material thickness around 16–20 mm. That means an off-the-shelf door often matches the cabinet frame and reveal.
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When they will fit out of the box
If pre-drilled hinge cups on the new product line up with the mounting plates on the carcass, you can attach a new front in minutes using the original hinges and plates. This is most likely for standard base, wall and tall frames and for many flat pack carcasses sold with Home Delivery or Click & Collect.
When you’ll need to drill new hinge holes or use adapters
The usual snag is hinge cup centres and mounting screw offsets. A few millimetres difference calls for accurate re-marking and redrilling or use of adjustable plates. For tall panels such as a unit 600 housing unit, check top and bottom hinge positions carefully to avoid months of adjustment.
“Measure hinge centres first; people who ring-fence that step often avoid costly rework and get years of service.”
- Measure cup centres and thickness before you order online.
- Adapters help short-term, but precise drilling gives cleaner, longer-lasting results.
- Read customer reviews for hints on pricing, delivery and real-fit experience.
| Scenario | Likely outcome | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matching width & hinge centres | Fit quickly | No drilling | Best for same-size carcasses |
| Width matches, hinge offset 2–5 mm | Minor work | Redrill or adjustable plate | Use jig for neat holes |
| Tall appliance front (unit 600) | Higher risk | Measure top/bottom; consider pros | Mismatches show more on tall doors |
Understanding UK kitchen standards: sizes, hinges and drilling patterns
UK cabinet modules follow simple rules, which helps when swapping fronts across ranges.
Common carcass widths and heights
Most base and wall carcasses use modular widths of 300, 400, 500 and 600 mm. That standardisation makes matching fronts from different makers straightforward in many installs.
Wall and base cabinet heights differ, and plinth depth changes reveal lines. Measure existing frames before you order to avoid surprises that cost time and money.
Typical door heights and thicknesses
B&Q lines often list doors at about 715 mm high for many ranges; some are 720 mm. Thickness commonly runs 16–20 mm across products such as Alpinia, Stevia, Garcinia and Tydeman.
Thicker fronts need the correct hinge screw length to avoid splitting and to keep reliable fixing for years.
Hinge cups and drilling patterns
The standard hinge cup is usually 35 mm, but the cup’s distance from the edge and from top/bottom varies by range and year. Small offsets mean a front that looks right can still need fresh drilling.
What a housing unit 600 means
A housing unit 600 for appliances (for example a double oven tall housing) uses coordinated fascias and filler panels. Check door heights, hinge positions and appliance clearances before ordering.
“Measure hinge centres and thickness first; this simple step avoids months of adjustment and costly returns.”
| Element | Typical value | Action for cross-brand use |
|---|---|---|
| Modular widths | 300 / 400 / 500 / 600 mm | Confirm width, order matching front |
| Door height (common) | ~715 mm (some 720 mm) | Check product spec before purchase |
| Thickness | 16–20 mm | Use correct hinge screws and plates |
| Hinge cup | 35 mm typical | Measure cup centres; use jig if drilling |
- Tip: Take exact measurements of hinge centres on existing carcasses to ensure clean, lasting results.
do wickes kitchen doors fit b&q units
Homeowners often swap brand fronts without issue, provided they confirm hinge positions and thickness before ordering.
In principle, fronts from one retailer will sit on another maker’s carcass when height, width and thickness match. Most UK cabinet widths are modular, so base and wall panels often line up. The common door heights around 715 mm and thicknesses of 16–20 mm make cross-brand matching achievable.
The usual snag is offset hinge cups. A few millimetres difference requires redrilling or an adjustable plate so reveals stay even and the door closes cleanly. Forum reviews show people succeed when they measure cup centres from top and bottom before they order online.
For a tall appliance fascia, such as a unit 600 housing unit, check any proprietary hinge kits that appliances may need. Factor delivery windows when mixing suppliers so your project does not stall for months.
“Order a single sample front first to test fit; it controls price risk and reduces returns.”
- Check thickness (16–20 mm) for correct screw length.
- Use a drilling jig and pilot bit to avoid tear-out and keep finishes neat for years.
- Most concealed hinges are upgradeable, but plate compatibility can vary slightly between brands.
Comparing carcass and door dimensions: Wickes vs B&Q
A quick width and thickness audit at the outset saves hours later when matching fronts to cabinets.
Widths and splits
Match common widths first: 300, 400, 500 and 600 mm are the most frequent. For wider base runs of 800–1000 mm you will usually use two 400–500 mm panels to split the opening evenly.
Height and clearance
Many B&Q fronts list about 715 mm, while some ranges are 720 mm. Verify the exact product spec to avoid stepped reveals across the run.
Thickness matters
Thinner 16 mm Shaker-style fronts need shorter screws. Slab ranges at 18–20 mm demand longer fixings and leave less margin if the hinge cup is deep. Denser 19–20 mm panels need careful cup depth checks to protect finishes over years.
When you order online, buy a single test panel and a hinge kit first. Measure hinge centre distances in millimetres and record them for later reference. Customer reviews show that width matching is straightforward; hinge drilling is the main variable.
| Element | Typical value | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Widths | 300 / 400 / 500 / 600 / split 800–1000 | Choose matching fronts or paired panels |
| Heights | ~715 mm (some 720 mm) | Confirm before ordering to keep even reveals |
| Thickness | 16 / 18 / 19–20 mm | Use correct screws; check hinge cup depth |
“Record centre-to-centre hinge measurements and test one panel first; it cuts returns and surprise work.”
Hinge alignment in practice: real-world mixing of brands
Users report that precise hinge mapping beats guessing when mixing fronts from different retailers.
Forum threads show people often succeed fitting B&Q fronts to Wickes carcasses when they measure and adjust hinge positions instead of trusting pre-drilled patterns. Methodical marking cuts wasted time and reduces returns.
Forum insights: when B&Q doors go on Wickes carcasses
People who post in reviews and build threads recommend copying cup-centre measurements from a hanging example. Transfer those top and bottom distances to the new blank, then dry-fit the hinge and plate.
Mixes with Magnet, Howdens and other pack suppliers report the same pattern: size is rarely the problem; hinge drilling is. On a 1000 mm base with double panels, use a shared datum from the top edge so gaps and handle alignment stay consistent.
How to mark and drill accurate hinge holes for a clean fit
Use a 35 mm Forstner bit with a depth stop for the cup. Mark pilot holes for screw fixings to prevent splitting in 16 mm panels. Dry-fit, check reveals on both base and wall units, then adjust by 1–2 mm before final drilling.
For tall panels such as a unit 600 housing unit, brace the long door while marking to avoid sag and keep hinge positions true for years. Test open and close clearances to stop clashes with adjacent cabinets or appliances.
“Mark, dry-fit and record measurements; it saves months of fiddling and future replacements.”
| Task | Tool / tip | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Copy hinge centre from hanging front | Tape measure, pencil | Ensures consistent reveal and handle alignment |
| Drill hinge cup | 35 mm Forstner + depth stop | Clean cup and prevents tear-out |
| Pilot screw holes | 2–3 mm pilot bit | Stops splitting in 16 mm panels |
| Dry-fit and adjust | Clamp, trial screws | Allows 1–2 mm tweak for perfect gaps |
Style and finish comparison: from slab gloss to Shaker
Colour, edge detail and rail width decide whether mixed fronts read as one cohesive scheme or a patchwork.
Pick similar profiles to keep a uniform look. For example, pair a slab gloss with GoodHome Stevia (18 mm) or match Shaker profiles to Ashmead (16 mm) or Alpinia wood-effect (18 mm). These choices matter more than brand names when people view a run of cabinets.
Check thickness and fixings. A 16 mm Shaker beside an 18 mm slab changes reveal depth and handle bolt length. Use the correct bolts to avoid dimpling and to preserve finish over years.
Order samples to compare finishes at home under real lighting. Reviews show neutral greys, dove grey and crisp white slabs work well with most appliances and worktops.
“Mix premium fronts on focal runs and value options on secondary cabinets to balance price and style.”
- Match rail width and edge radius for shaker kitchens so detailing aligns along wall runs.
- Zoom product images and read finish descriptions before you order online to reduce returns.
- Check availability: some ranges are Home Delivery only, so plan timelines across months if trades are involved.
| Feature | GoodHome example | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Slab gloss | Stevia — 18 mm | Pair with similar slab profiles; order sample |
| Shaker | Ashmead — 16 mm; Alpinia — 18 mm wood-effect | Match rail widths; check handle bolt lengths |
| Guarantee & availability | 25-year guarantee; Home Delivery / Click & Collect options | Confirm delivery method when ordering to sync installs |
Price and value: doors and units compared
A clear budget plan helps you decide where to spend on fronts and when to save on carcasses.
Entry-price slab ranges such as GoodHome Stevia and Balsamita give a neat look for modest outlay. Examples: Ashmead Shaker 715 x 500 x 16 mm at £25, Stevia gloss slab from £33–£40 and Alpinia 715 x 500 x 18 mm at ~£53. Garcinia integrated handle at 715 x 600 x 19 mm sits around £56–£57.
Mixing a cheaper carcass with a promoted front can cut overall pricing, but factor extra delivery charges when you order online from different suppliers. A 600 mm front often costs more than a 300–400 mm, so plan double-door runs to optimise spend.
Value tips:
- Use premium fronts on feature walls and entry-price options in utility areas.
- Buy a single sample order to test finish and hinge centre before wider purchase.
- Check customer reviews for durability over years and hardware quality in flat pack packs.
“Track promotions for a few weeks; that can save on headline prices without delaying a unit 600 housing delivery.”
| Item | Typical price | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ashmead Shaker 715x500x16 | £25 | Good for secondary runs |
| Stevia gloss slab | £33–£40 | Entry-price gloss option |
| Garcinia 715x600x19 | £56–£57 | Use on focal tall run |
Delivery, lead times and service differences
Lead times and delivery notes often decide whether a refit runs smoothly or stretches into months of disruption.
Flat pack realities: Wickes flat pack vs B&Q in‑stock
Flat pack packs arrive quickly and are easy to store. They can speed an install and reduce immediate labour costs.
By contrast, many GoodHome fronts show as Home Delivery only or Click & Collect in some colours. A double oven tall unit 600 listing may be delivery‑only, so check product availability before you book trades.
Third‑party timelines to consider
Wren delivery and other third‑party schedules often run to different slots. That mismatch can leave base and wall carcasses waiting while appliance or fascia parts take weeks to arrive.
- Check availability flags and plan a buffer when you order online.
- Receive all fronts before stripping out the old run to avoid months without a working kitchen.
- Keep delivery notes and part counts for any service or warranty claims over the years.
“Smooth service is worth a small premium; reviews often praise reliable delivery more than low pricing.”
| Scenario | Likely impact | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Flat pack in stock | Quick arrival | Order, collect, store |
| Delivery‑only product | Possible weeks delay | Order early; sync with trades |
| Third‑party appliance | Different delivery slot | Plan contingencies; confirm wren delivery timing |
Product ranges and compatibility: exclusive vs mix-and-match
Exclusive ranges mean exact colour matches are rare, so plan transitions where they matter least.
Many retailers keep unique product lines. That means exact profiles or finishes at one store may not appear at another. Ethos made-to-order fronts, for example, are sized to sit on GoodHome cabinet units but still need hinge checks.
Compatibility usually depends on size and hinge position, not brand names. An exclusive finish can be mounted on a different carcass with careful measuring and new drill holes.
If you want a seamless run across a whole wall, stick to one range to save time. Where mixing is unavoidable, place colour or profile changes at natural breaks such as tall housings, appliance banks or a housing unit 600.
- Order samples and small batches to compare sheen and texture before a larger order online.
- Read product pages and reviews for notes on long-term wear and finish differences.
- Buy spare panels when a finish is exclusive; availability can change in months or years.
“Place transitions at natural breaks and keep serials for reorders to avoid surprises.”
| Situation | Risk | Action | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exclusive finish | Exact match unavailable | Use sample; plan transition | Cleaner visual result |
| Made-to-order range | Different hinge specs | Confirm hinge centres before order | Better long-term alignment |
| Mix-and-match | Minor texture gaps | Place at tall appliance or base break | Disguises differences |
| Long-term maintenance | Finish discontinued in years | Buy spares and record serials | Future-proof repairs |
Appliance and larder doors: what to know for tall and housing units
Tall housing runs need a different checklist to short wall or base runs, especially when appliances are involved.
Double oven tall housing unit 600 and appliance door sizing
For a Double Oven Tall Housing Unit 600, confirm the door configuration and any filler panels so cut-outs match appliance trim kits. A 1467 mm larder front requires careful hinge placement; small errors are obvious along a tall run.
Tall fronts are heavy. Fit multiple hinges and secure the cabinet to studs or strong fixings to carry that load for years. Door thickness matters: a 19–20 mm front often needs different screws than a 16 mm Shaker panel.
Integrated appliance doors: fridges, dishwashers and panel fit
Integrated fridges and dishwashers require panels and sliders that follow the appliance fitting instructions. Cross-brand panels can work when sizes align, but check ventilation, service clearances and handle swing to avoid clashes.
- Pre-fit an appliance fascia before levelling adjacent base and wall units to keep sightlines straight.
- Some fascias are delivery-only; plan lead times so your project does not stall for months.
- Record hinge positions for future replacements; tall fronts stay true for years if marks are kept.
For more panel options and to compare product ranges, see kitchen doors.
“Test one sample fascia first to control price risk and avoid long returns.”
Hardware and accessories: soft-close, drawers and pull-out storage
Small changes to hinges and runners often make the biggest difference to how cabinets perform in years to come.
Soft-close hinges: compatibility and upgrade paths
Most modern concealed hinges support soft-close. Match hinge brands or use compatible mounting plates for reliable action across base and wall furniture.
Tip: Replace plates if the new hinge has a different cup offset; soft-close feels best when all opening points behave the same.
Drawer boxes and fronts: aligning rails and hole patterns
Drawer runners can carry brand-specific hole patterns. Swapping a front is easier than swapping a runner system unless you are happy to redrill.
Many people upgrade to higher-spec runners such as Blum for better motion without replacing carcasses.
Wire pull-outs: brand-specific or universal?
Wire pull-outs commonly fit standard widths, including a unit 600, but rail positions differ by range. Check clearances and mounting depth before you order.
“Customer satisfaction rises when soft-close is consistent across all cabinets.”
| Hardware | Compatibility | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Soft-close hinges | Most concealed types | Match plates; test on one door |
| Drawer runners | Brand patterns vary | Measure hole centres; consider Blum upgrade |
| Wire pull-outs | Standard widths, varied rails | Check spec; verify clearances |
Second-hand and ex-display buys: eBay, surplus and returns
Second-hand fronts and ex-display panels can be a smart way to cut price on a refit, but they need careful checks before you commit.
Using leftover B&Q stock on other carcasses
Sizes matter. Check that widths (300–600 mm) and common heights around 715 mm match your base and wall frames before you buy.
Be ready to redrill hinge cups and adjust mounting screws when a product uses a different pattern. That extra work can add months to a project if you miss it.
Checks before you buy
- Count panels and record ranges so you don’t come up short for a crucial unit 600 or tall run.
- Inspect edges and corners; gloss slabs show chips more than textured Shaker finishes.
- Verify hardware and pack contents — missing plates add to final pricing.
- Consider delivery or collection logistics; long larder pieces need protection in transit.
“Photograph labels and range names; it helps customer service match product lines if you need to order online later.”
| Buy type | Risk | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ex-display | Minor wear | Inspect in person; negotiate price |
| Surplus pack | Missing fixings | Confirm contents; budget for extras |
| Private sale (eBay) | No returns | Ask for photos, measure, collect carefully |
Quality, reviews and longevity
Real-world feedback gives a clear view of how fronts perform over months and years.
Customer feedback often highlights how small hardware choices affect everyday use and long-term wear.
What people say about day-to-day use and finish wear
- GoodHome Stevia scores around 4.46/5 from 47 reviews, while Ashmead Shaker sits near 4.8/5; Balsamita averages about 4.04/5.
- Reviewers praise sturdy 18–20 mm panels for holding edges over years and note that gloss finishes show fingerprints more than matt or wood-effect finishes.
- Many customers flag hinge quality; a reliable soft-close hinge improves daily feel regardless of the range chosen.
Remember the 25-year manufacturer’s guarantee; it suggests the product is intended to last if fitted and cared for correctly at home.
“Separate delivery issues from product quality when you read reviews; service can drag a good item down.”
Over months small settling may need hinge tweaks. Regular checks preserve sightlines and extend service life for years. For guidance on ordering, delivery and alternatives see more on services and costs.
Design continuity: creating a cohesive look when mixing brands
A considered approach keeps mixed fronts feeling like one planned product rather than a mismatch.
Colour matching across gloss, matt and wood-effect finishes
Start with a tight palette of two to three colours. That simple rule makes a run of varied finishes read as a single scheme.
Match surface sheen first — gloss with gloss, matt with matt — and compare samples in your home under both daylight and warm LEDs.
Use a darker island or a housing unit bank as a deliberate contrast. That turns differences into a feature and helps hide small finish variations over years.
Handle choices and alignment to disguise brand differences
Choose one handle style for the whole run and measure handle centres precisely across base and wall panels.
- Align rail sizes on a shaker kitchen to keep profile lines consistent.
- Keep plinths, cornices and end panels the same to tie mixed fronts together.
- Pick simple, timeless handles so your dream kitchen still looks fresh after years.
“Consistent hardware and a tight palette make mixed ranges feel intentional.”
Step-by-step: how to order and fit mixed-brand doors
Start with a clear plan: measure, order a trial panel, then complete the rest once the sample proves correct.
Measure twice: widths, heights, hinge centres and reveals
Measure cabinet openings and existing fronts for width (300–600), height (around 715) and reveal gaps. Note hinge centres from the top and bottom edges on both base and wall frames.
Record thickness so you choose correct screws for 16 mm or 18–20 mm panels and avoid splitting finishes.
Order online: selecting ranges, delivery options and quantities
Order a single product sample and a hinge pack first. Use Click & Collect or Home Delivery to suit your timetable.
- Check availability flags to avoid months of delay.
- Stage the order to control pricing and reduce returns.
Fit and adjust: hinge cup drilling, pilot holes and alignment
Mark cup positions with a template and use a 35 mm Forstner plus shallow pilot screws. Dry-fit on base and wall frames, adjust plates for even reveals, then tighten.
For a unit 600 tall housing, brace the long front while fitting and confirm appliance clearances before finishing.
“Order one test panel first; it saves months of rework and keeps customer returns low.”
Risks, workarounds and when to keep to one brand
Tolerance creep is the silent problem in mixed-brand installs — tiny offsets become obvious over long runs.
Tolerance stack-ups and why millimetres matter
Mixing ranges can create small differences in drilling, thickness and hinge offsets. One or two millimetres per panel soon sum across base and wall runs and show as uneven reveals.
Practical workaround: group matching panels by zone, test-fit a single product and record hinge centres before buying the rest.
Made-to-order doors and the benefits of sticking with one system
B&Q’s Ethos Collection is built to match GoodHome cabinet units across sizes, so staying within one range reduces risk. It can raise the upfront price but cuts labour, returns and service calls over years.
- Test one door per style before bulk orders to avoid months of delay.
- Keep spares and clear records for future additions or repairs.
- Remember delivery timing and installer hours — small savings on product can be lost to extra fitting time.
“When perfection matters, a single system for cabinets, fronts and hardware is the safest route.”
Conclusion
A small trial order plus careful measuring saves time, cost and surprise work when mixing ranges. ,
Wickes flat pack and B&Q lines often share standard sizes, so you can match a 715 mm door and common widths for a tidy run at home. Test one product, check hinge centres and thickness, then scale up to avoid months of rework.
Plan delivery early — mix Home Delivery, Click & Collect and wren delivery slots to keep trades on schedule. For a housing unit 600 or appliance fascias, confirm splits, load and clearances first.
In short: use a test order online, read reviews and keep part numbers. With measured steps you can control price, timing and achieve your dream kitchen that lasts for years.
FAQ
Do Wickes kitchen doors fit B&Q units? Full answer
In many cases you can pair doors from one UK high-street brand with carcasses from another, but it depends on measurements. Match the door width and height to the carcass, check hinge cup size and position, and confirm door thickness and reveal. If hinge centres and cabinet drilling patterns align, doors will fit with minimal work. Otherwise you may need to redrill hinge cups or use adapters. Always measure first and keep original packaging and receipts in case of returns.
The short answer: can you mix Wickes doors with B&Q units today?
Yes, you can mix them, but only when sizes and hinge patterns match. Out-of-the-box compatibility is common for standard widths such as 300–600mm and conventional hinge types. When the hinge centres differ or the door thickness varies, expect modification.
When will they fit out of the box?
They’ll usually fit without alteration if both door and carcass follow standard UK carcass widths, the hinge cup diameter and centre match, and the door thickness gives correct clearance. In-stock slab and Shaker ranges often use common patterns, so cross-brand fit is more likely.
When you’ll need to drill new hinge holes or use adapters?
You’ll need to drill or use adapters when hinge cup positions differ, when the door thickness changes the reveal, or when pre-drilled holes don’t line up with hinge plates. Use a jig for accuracy and pilot holes to avoid chipping. Concealed hinge adapters can save time on modest misalignments.
What are the common carcass widths and heights (base, wall and tall units)?
Typical carcass widths include 300, 400, 500, 600 and larger runs such as 1000mm for bespoke assemblies. Heights vary for base, wall and tall units but follow standard kitchen module sizes so doors from mainstream ranges often match without trimming.
What are typical door heights at B&Q and common thicknesses?
Many B&Q doors have heights around 715mm for base units and follow standard tall door sizes for larders. Door thickness commonly sits between 16–20mm. Confirm the exact measurement for the chosen range before ordering to avoid gaps or binding.
How do hinge cup sizes and positions vary by brand and range?
Concealed hinges typically use a 35mm cup but the centre-to-edge position and horizontal offset vary. Some ranges use brand-specific drilling patterns. Check hinge centre measurements and the overlay type (full, half or inset) to ensure alignment.
What does “housing unit 600” mean for appliances and doors?
A housing unit 600 usually refers to a tall cabinet 600mm wide designed to accommodate appliances like ovens or larders. Appliance doors and panels must match the unit width and allow ventilation, so measure appliance cut-outs and panel sizes before buying doors.
How do widths like 300, 400, 500, 600 and 1000mm affect matching doors to units?
Choose door widths that correspond to the cabinet width and the door style (single door or split for wider cabinets). For wide carcasses such as 1000mm, manufacturers often recommend double doors or a bespoke door to avoid sagging and maintain good reveals.
What door thickness and clearance issues should I consider (16mm, 18mm, 19–20mm)?
Thicker doors can push into neighbouring reveals or need different hinge settings. Ensure hinges can compensate and that adjacent doors maintain even gaps. Thinner doors may require spacers or different hinge plates to achieve correct alignment.
What do real users say about mixing brands on forums and reviews?
Feedback is mixed. Many report success when sizes align and when they take time to mark hinge centres carefully. Common tips include using jigs, buying extra hinges and practising on offcuts. Reviews often praise cost savings but note extra labour when drilling is required.
How do I mark and drill accurate hinge holes for a clean fit?
Measure hinge centres from a fixed edge, use a 35mm hinge jig for concealed hinges, drill pilot holes and test-fit before final assembly. Work on a sacrificial board first and keep consistent spacing to maintain uniform reveals.
Can I match a slab or Shaker finish across brands without a visible mismatch?
You can achieve good continuity with neutral matt, gloss or standard Shaker paints, but wood-effect grains and certain gloss sheens may differ between suppliers. Order samples and compare in your kitchen lighting before committing to a full run.
How do prices compare: entry-price slab vs premium made-to-order options?
Entry-level slab doors are the cheapest route and often available off-the-shelf. Premium made-to-measure doors cost more but save time on drilling and fitting and offer precise colour and size matching. Mixing brands can deliver savings if you accept some DIY work.
Where are the savings when mixing brands?
Savings often come from buying cheaper doors from one retailer and carcasses or appliances from another, avoiding bespoke door pricing. Factor in potential extra costs for hinge adapters, drilling or professional fitting when calculating final value.
What about delivery, lead times and service differences between flat pack and in-stock options?
Flat pack items have typical lead times and may require assembly; some retailers offer fast in-stock pickup. Made-to-order doors and third-party deliveries (for example Wren delivery) can add weeks. Always check lead times and delivery charges before ordering.
Are appliance and larder doors treated differently for tall and housing units?
Yes. Appliance doors must allow ventilation and match appliance cut-out sizes. For a double oven tall housing unit 600, you need accurately sized panels and possibly bespoke panels for integrated fridges, dishwashers and ovens to ensure a flush finish.
Are soft-close hinges and drawer systems interchangeable?
Many soft-close hinges are compatible across cabinets, but check mounting plates and hole patterns. Drawer boxes need rail alignment and front fixing points that can vary. Some pull-out wire systems are brand-specific, though universal options exist.
Can I use second-hand or ex-display doors from eBay or surplus stock?
Yes, but inspect counts, sizes, condition and return policies. Ex-display items can save money, but mismatched drilling or wear may mean extra work. Verify measurements and ask for photos of hinge areas and edges before purchase.
What do reviewers say about longevity and finish wear?
Reviews highlight that daily use reveals differences in edge banding, paint wear and hinge robustness. Mid-range doors often balance cost and durability, while premium ranges show better long-term resistance to chips and stains.
How can I create a cohesive look when mixing brands?
Match finish type and colour, use consistent handles and keep door thickness similar. Align handle positions and consider custom plinths or filler strips to disguise any slight gaps or reveal differences.
What’s the step-by-step when ordering and fitting mixed-brand doors?
Measure twice — widths, heights, hinge centres and reveals. Order samples, select delivery options and quantities, then test-fit hinges and make pilot holes. Adjust door positions with hinge plates and spacers for even gaps.
What risks and workarounds should I know, and when should I stick to one brand?
Risks include tolerance stack-ups, mismatched hinge patterns and differing finishes. Workarounds are hinge adapters, bespoke drilling and professional carpentry. If you want a perfect fit and consistent warranty, staying with one system or opting for made-to-order doors is safest.
