What is a Rail? | Definition of a Rail - Apex Granite Outlet

Rails are an essential component of any kitchen cabinet system. They are horizontal bars that run along the top and bottom of the cabinet box and serve as a support for the cabinet doors and drawers. The top rail is usually flush with the top of the cabinet box and the bottom rail is flush with the bottom of the cabinet box. Rails can be made of various materials including wood, metal, and plastic.

One of the key functions of the rails is to provide stability to the cabinet structure. By running along the top and bottom of the cabinet box, they create a frame that helps to keep the box square and prevents it from warping or twisting over time. Rails also help to distribute the weight of the cabinet doors and drawers evenly, reducing stress on the hinges and slides.

Rails are often used in combination with stiles, which are vertical bars that run along the sides of the cabinet box. Together, the rails and stiles create a frame around the cabinet openings that can be used to attach hinges or slides for the cabinet doors and drawers. This type of construction is known as a framed cabinet and is commonly used in traditional and transitional kitchen designs. Frameless cabinets, on the other hand, do not have a frame and rely on the strength of the cabinet box itself to support the doors and drawers.