What Are Metal Edges That Keep Cabinet Doors Closed Called?

Introduction to Cabinet Door Catches

Cabinet door catches, also referred to as cabinet latches or door catches, are small metal or plastic pieces mounted on the inside edges of cabinet doors and on the corresponding cabinet frame. Their purpose is to firmly hold the doors closed and prevent them from swinging open on their own.

There are several types of cabinet door catches that serve this purpose through slightly different mechanisms. The most common varieties include:

• Magnetic catches – These contain embedded magnets that attach to a metal strike plate on the cabinet frame.
• Spring-loaded roller catches – These have a roller that clicks into place against a ridge on the cabinet frame.
• Push-to-open catches – These release when the door is pushed gently and click back when closed.
• Touch latches – These release at the touch of a finger and snap closed.

No matter the specific type, cabinet door catches are indispensable hardware that keep contents securely inside cabinets. They are typically very affordable, easy to install, and last a long time with proper use.

Key Reasons Cabinet Doors Need Catches

There are a few important reasons why cabinet doors utilize small latches to stay closed:

• Prevent swinging open – The catches counteract the natural tendency for doors to swing open from the weight distribution and forces acting upon them. This keeps the doors firmly in place when closed.
• Retain adjustment – The catches allow cabinet doors to maintain their original adjustment and not fall out of alignment over time.
• Counteract wear – They compensate for the minor loosening that occurs from repeated opening and closing of cabinet doors over many years.
• Resist vibration – The latches keep doors stable even when cabinets or entire buildings shake and vibrate.
• Provide security – When properly engaged, the catches prevent doors from accidentally opening and contents from falling out.

Without catches, cabinet doors would easily fall open, become misaligned, and allow contents to spill out. The small latches solve all these potential problems.

Where Cabinet Door Catches Are Used

Cabinet door catches have some extremely widespread uses:

Kitchen Cabinets

The most common application is on standard kitchen cabinets. Kitchens contain dozens of upper and lower cabinets, each with one or two doors that need to stay securely closed. Cabinet door catches are mandatory to prevent accidents.

Bathroom Vanities

Bathroom vanity cabinets also benefit greatly from door catches. They keep mirrored doors closed to conceal contents. Catches also keep doors aligned and prevent accidents.

Office Furniture

Many office cabinets, hutches, credenzas, and desks use cabinet door latches as well. They keep contents in place and prevent the annoyance of swinging open doors.

Entertainment Centers

Media cabinets and entertainment centers utilize catches to keep their doors neatly aligned and closed. This provides a safer, more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Wall Cabinets

Wall-mounted cabinets are excellent applications for catches. They prevent contents from falling out while compensating for potential vibration and settling of the wall itself.

Cabinet door catches are useful for any setup with hinged cabinet doors that needs to stay securely closed. Their small size belies the immense usefulness of these little latches.

Main Types of Cabinet Door Catches

There are a few main types of cabinet latches, each with slight variations:

Magnetic Catches

These contain powerful magnets that adhere to a metal strike plate on the opposite surface. The magnets securely hold the door closed until they are pulled open. Magnetic catches provide a smooth, satisfying operation.

Roller Catches

These utilize a spring-loaded ball bearing roller that clicks and locks into a ridge on the cabinet frame. They provide reliable catching power in a simple mechanism.

Push-to-Open Catches

These release the door when pushed gently and pull it closed again securely after opening. They are convenient for frequently accessed cabinets.

Touch Latches

These use a trigger mechanism that releases the latch when touched lightly and snaps it closed instantly after opening. These are also very convenient for busy cabinets.

There are also unique specialty catches like self-closing hinges and Childproof latches for safety. Each cabinet catch type has its own useful qualities.

How to Install Cabinet Door Catches

Installing cabinet door catches is a very straightforward process:

1. Select suitable catches for the cabinet style and door size. Allow about 1-2″ clearance.
2. Mark and drill pilot holes in the cabinet door edge at an angle perpendicular to the frame.
3. Optionally, use the provided template to mark corresponding holes on the cabinet frame.
4. Screw or glue the catch pieces into the pilot holes. For magnetic catches, install with polarity aligned.
5. Test the catch action and make any adjustments. The door should close smoothly and the catch should engage tightly.
6. For roller catches, you may need to file the ridge on the cabinet frame so the roller clicks in more tightly.

Follow any specific manufacturer instructions. With proper installation, cabinet door catches should last for many years of reliable use.

Benefits of Quality Cabinet Door Catches

High-quality cabinet door catches provide many helpful benefits:

• Smooth and consistent operation.
• Tight, secure closure.
• Sturdy construction that resists wear.
• Suitability for different size doors and weights.
• Easy installation and adjustment.
• Variety of styles to suit decor.
• Childproofing options for safety.
• Affordable prices for most budgets.

Choosing durable catches that smoothly hold doors closed without fail makes living with cabinets far more convenient. It also helps maintain the appearance and function of cabinetry for many years.

Troubleshooting Cabinet Door Catches

If cabinet door catches fail to keep doors closed properly, check for these issues:

• Loose mounting screws – Tighten screws securely.
• Misalignment – Adjust catch and strike plate positions.
• Roller/ridge wear – Replace worn parts or file ridge.
• Weak magnets – Replace with new magnetic catches.
• Damage or deformation – Look for warping or cracks and replace.
• Excessive door weight – Use heavier duty catches.
• Too much friction – Adjust door and lubricate hinges.

Routine inspection and maintenance helps avoid problems with cabinet catches. Replacing worn or defective catches promptly restores proper door closure.

Conclusion

The small and ubiquitous cabinet door catch performs the vital task of keeping cabinet doors securely closed. These metal or plastic latches mount to the inside door edges and frame to counteract the forces trying to swing the doors open. With magnetic, spring-loaded, and push-to-open designs, cabinet catches provide smooth and reliable operation for many years. Installing high-quality catches makes living with cabinets safer and more convenient. They are an inexpensive but valuable investment for optimizing cabinet function in any room. With just a small touch, these handy gadgets hold our cabinet contents safely in place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are some other names for cabinet door catches?

A: They are also referred to as cabinet latches, catches, strikes, casement stays, and gate catches. Different manufacturers may use different terminology.

Q: How do I choose the right cabinet catch?

A: Consider the door size, weight, frequency of opening, and desired operation. Pick a sturdy catch suited for the installation.

Q: Can I adjust most cabinet door catches?

A: Many catches have screws that allow some adjustment, especially for alignment and engagement tightness. But adjustment is limited for some concealed catch designs.

Q: Do new cabinets come with door catches installed?

A: Typically yes. Most new factory-built cabinets have catches pre-installed. But for custom cabinets, you may need to select and install your own catches.

Q: How do I stop cabinet doors from sagging over time?

A: Quality catches help doors maintain adjustment. But you may also need to periodically tighten hinges and realign doors to compensate for natural settling and loosening over years of use.