How to Install Kitchen Cabinets

Moderate

Introduction

Kitchen cabinets can make or break the looks of your kitchen space. When ordering cabinets, quality is always better but is not always determined by cost. Compare the construction of the cabinets before you purchase; real wood over composite is preferred but getting harder to find these days. Make sure that the side walls and back support boards are at least 11/16" thick. Check out the quality of the hinges and the drawer slides as these are used the most. Installing kitchen cabinets requires some specific tools, a little muscle, and some pre-planning. Look over the materials we have provided carefully. We are confident that you and The DIY Home Pro will successfully accomplish the task! Here are a few resources that will send you on your way to completing your project. Remember: We have searched everywhere to bring you the very best information available so that your project will be a complete success! Always check with The DIY Home Pro first for all of your projects!.

Quick Links

Introduction
What You’ll Need

The Technique
Books and DVDs

Hire A Contractor
Ask Our Experts

Tools Needed
Materials Needed

What You’ll Need

Installing kitchen cabinets will require some specific tools and materials to complete the job. We have provided a comprehensive list of tools and materials that will help you complete the job in a professional and functional manner.

The Tools You’ll Need

Level

A level is a "key tool" for installing your cabinets. Without a level your cabinets will be uneven and the drawers and doors can fall open by themselves. Make sure you have a good level on hand and understand how to use it for this job. Stanley 42-076 48-Inch Top Read Aluminum Level

Straight Edge

A straight edge will help insure that your cabinets are "flush" meaning they all line up in a straight line and the surface for the counter tops are even. In some cases a long level will replace the straight edge if the level is straight itself! Empire Level 4006 72-Inch Aluminum Straight Edge

Power Screw Driver/ Drill

This tool is worth its weight in gold when installing cabinets! You can use it to drill the mounting holes and then to screw the cabinets together or to the wall. This is a "Must Have" for many house hold projects, especially this project in particular.

Chalk Line

A chalk line will enable you to mark a continuous line across the wall or floor where the cabinets will be installed. This is critical during the installation process. Make sure you have a chalk line and some chalk on hand for the job!

The Materials You’ll Need

Shims

Shims are used to make the cabinets even when the floor or wall are not. This is a critical step in making sure that your cabinets line up straight and true! Composite Shim

Cabinets

Cabinets come in many shapes and prices. All of them have to be ordered, so why not order them here where you save money?

Wood Screws

Wood screws are used to secure the cabinets to the walls and each other. It is important to use screws because they do not pull out over time but, you must make sure you have them screwed into the woodGrizzly G2726 #8 x 1-1/2" Wood Screws, 1,000 pc.

The Technique

When installing your cabinets you will need to prepare the entire area. Remove all unneeded debris and tools, get someone to help moving them around, and make sure you have the required materials as described above. Carefully mark out the area where the cabinets are to be installed, and start with the upper cabinets first. This will give you room to work while you mount the upper cabinets. It is always a good idea to make a brace that is the same height as the lower most part of the upper cabinets, this way you can place the brace under the cabinet while you level and screw it to the wall. Now lets get started!

Installing the Cabinets

Here is a great video describing how to install those cabinets! This video covers leveling the cabinets, screwing them together and finally the layout on the wall. Enjoy!

Step by Step Details

Here is a great link that shows in detail how to pre-plan, align and install your cabinets. The article has great diagrams showing you how to clamp the cabinets together while securing them. You will have a clear understanding of how to layout your cabinets and install them just like the pros do! View the Article >>>

Books and DVDs

Kitchens

This book explains it all! From deciding whether to repair your old cabinets or purchasing new cabinets and laying out the kitchen. There are separate chapters on preparing the kitchen and installing the base and wall cabinets as well.

Refacing Cabinets

Here is a great book on refacing those old cabinets, you don't have to change the whole cabinet to make that kitchen look new!

Hire A Professional Contractor

Not convinced you want to go it alone? Renovation Experts is a great place to find local professional contractors who specialize in any home improvement and home repair project you may have.