Installing new kitchen cabinets can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen. With the right techniques and proper planning, you can install kitchen cabinets like a pro. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the steps needed for a successful DIY kitchen cabinet installation.
Selecting Kitchen Cabinets
The first step is choosing the right kitchen cabinets for your needs. Here are some tips for selecting cabinets:
- Cabinet style – Consider shaker, recessed panel, or flat panel designs. Shaker style cabinets are popular for a classic look.
- Materials – Kitchen cabinets come in wood, laminate, metal, and thermofoil. Hardwoods like oak and maple are durable but expensive. Laminates cost less but dent and scratch easier.
- Door style – Full overlay, inset, and partial overlay are common door styles. Full overlay fully covers the cabinet face frame and is easiest to install.
- Finishes – From paints to stains to glazes, cabinet finishes greatly impact the overall look. White, grey, and wood tones are top choices.
- Quality – Opt for plywood box construction, soft-close hinges, and full-extension drawers. Avoid particleboard boxes and basic hinges.
- Custom or stock – Stock cabinets cost less but custom offers a built-to-fit look. Semi-custom splits the difference.
Planning the Installation
Careful planning ensures an efficient, headache-free installation. Consider the following:
- Create a detailed cabinet layout indicating sizes, placement, and specialty pieces like corner cabinets or appliance garages.
- Number and label each cabinet on the plans for easy identification. Note which cabinets have specialty hardware.
- Identify all adjustments needed to ceilings, walls, floors, pipes, outlets, vents, etc. Address these before installing cabinets.
- Order all cabinets, hardware, moldings, and accessories well in advance of the installation date.
- Allow ample time for installation, ideally 5-7 full work days for an average kitchen with 10-15 cabinets.
Preparing the Work Area
To set up an efficient workspace:
- Remove existing cabinets safely using proper tools. Temporarily relocate appliances.
- Protect floors and walls from dents, paint splatters, dust, etc. Use tarps or plastic sheeting.
- Designate a clean, dry assembly area. Cover with cardboard to prevent cabinet scratches.
- Unpack cabinets and organize hardware, allowing easy access when needed.
- Gather all tools, fasteners, and supplies and check that they are in good working order.
Installing Wall Cabinets
Wall cabinets establish the foundation for the entire layout. Here’s how to hang them:
Step 1 – Mark the Cabinet Layout
- Measure the kitchen space and mark stud locations on the walls.
- Mark level horizontal lines for the top and bottom of the wall cabinets based on your plans.
Step 2 – Mount Wall Cabinet Backing
- Secure 2×4 backing boards horizontally to the studs at the top and bottom lines.
- Make sure boards are perfectly level. Use shims if gaps exist between board and wall.
Step 3 – Hang the Corner Cabinet
- Set the corner cabinet in place, ensuring it is plumb. Mark outlines.
- Pre-drill through the cabinet back at stud locations.
- Attach to studs using #10, 3-inch screws. Drive screws partially in at first, then fully tighten.
Step 4 – Hang the Remaining Cabinets
- Place the next cabinet, overlapping stiles with the corner cabinet.
- Attach to the backing boards or studs. Make sure cabinets are level and plumb.
- Complete one wall before moving to the next. Use temporary supports to hold cabinets in place.
Step 5 – Scribe and Trim (if needed)
- If gaps exist between cabinet and walls, scribe and trim the cabinet for a flush fit.
- Trace the wall contours on the cabinet trim with a compass. Carefully cut along lines with a jigsaw.
- Sand cut edges, finish with trim material, and reinstall cabinet.
Installing Base Cabinets
After completing the wall cabinets, shift focus to the base cabinets using this process:
Step 1 – Layout and Prep the Floor
- Mark cabinet locations on the floor using your plans.
- Make any needed floor adjustments. Fill dips, holes, or cracks with floor leveler.
Step 2 – Mark the Base Cabinets
- Mark plumb lines on adjacent walls where cabinet sides will contact.
- Transfer cabinet dimensions to the floor from your markings.
Step 3 – Fasten the First Cabinet
- Set corner cabinet in place, verifying it is level and plumb.
- Secure to wall studs and floor using appropriate fasteners.
Step 4 – Install the Remaining Cabinets
- Place each additional cabinet, fastening securely to prior cabinets and floor.
- Use carpenter’s square frequently to check for square.
- Fill gaps between cabinets and walls with shims. Do not over tighten screws.
Step 5 – Make Adjustments
- Use filler strips, additional shims, or sanding to ensure cabinets sit flush against walls.
- Test doors and drawers to ensure smooth operation. Adjust as needed.
Installing Countertops and Final Touches
Finish off your cabinet installation with these important steps:
- Carefully measure and create a countertop that fits precisely within the cabinet layout.
- Anchor the countertop securely to the installed base cabinets.
- Seal around edges with waterproof caulk. Let dry completely.
- Reinstall existing appliances or install new ones, making any needed cutouts or adjustments.
- Install knobs, pulls, or other hardware on doors and drawers.
- Touch up any damaged areas with matching wood filler, primer, and paint.
- Clean thoroughly and remove all dust, dirt, and construction debris.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about kitchen cabinet installations:
How long does it take to install new kitchen cabinets?
It typically takes 5-7 full workdays for an experienced DIYer to demolish existing cabinets, prep the space, assemble, hang, and finish installing 10-15 new kitchen cabinets.
What clearance is needed between cabinets and appliances?
Allow a minimum of 30-36 inches clearance between most major appliances and surrounding cabinets. Refer to manufacturer specifications for any custom appliance spaces.
Should I install upper or base cabinets first?
It’s best practice to install wall cabinets first since they establish the layout. Then move to base cabinets and make any needed adjustments.
What is the standard height for wall cabinets?
The typical height range is between 15-18 inches for wall cabinet bottoms above the countertop. Standard widths are 30-36 inches.
How do I ensure cabinets are installed securely?
Always screw cabinets into wall studs or backing boards. For floors, use construction adhesive and screws if concrete, and screws alone for wood. Avoid just using drywall anchors.
What do I do if my floors are uneven?
For minor dips or cracks, self-leveling floor compound helps create a flat base. For more significant sloping, shim cabinets during installation until plumb and level.
How much space should I leave between cabinets and walls?
Leaving a 1/8-1/4 inch gap allows space for irregular walls and possible shifting. You want cabinets snug but not pressed fully flush.
Conclusion
With good planning and attention to detail, you can achieve an expert quality kitchen cabinet installation. Carefully mark your layout lines, assemble cabinets squarely, use sturdy fasteners, and make adjustments as needed. Be patient, work methodically, and don’t be afraid to ask for help lifting heavy cabinets. Investing ample time into the installation will pay off for years to come with durable, well-functioning cabinets. Here’s to successfully transforming your cooking space with new kitchen cabinets installed like a pro!
