There are several different ways to install kitchen cabinets. However, the most common method is to mount them to a wall stud. This ensures that the cabinets can be moved and positioned without the drawers or doors being attached. To properly mount the cabinets, it is recommended that you dry-fit them first, which means you do not connect the drawers or doors until the cabinet is fully installed.
Mounting to a wall stud is the preferred installation
If you’re installing kitchen cabinets, mounting them to a wall stud is your best option. You can take advantage of the natural strength of wood by mounting your cabinets to a stud. Whether your home is built with drywall, brick, or concrete, you can still mount cabinets to a stud.
Before you begin, you need to locate the studs on your wall. For this, use a stud finder. These tools are inexpensive and can help you find hidden studs.
Once you’ve located the studs, mark them with painter’s tape. This will make it easier for you to attach your cabinets to the studs.
After you have marked the studs, you can drill pilot holes. These small holes will help you secure your cabinets to the studs. The holes should be at least 3/16 inches wide.
Find the highest point on the floor.
The first step to installing kitchen cabinets is determining the floor’s highest point. This point will be the base for your cabinet installation. Whether you’re doing a complete kitchen renovation or a DIY job, it’s essential to know where the best high point of the floor is.
You can use a straight edge or a long level to find the point. A standard tape measure is another good way to find the floor’s highest point.
If you’re trying to determine the highest point, you may consider using a laser level. These levels have a range of features, including a leveling indicator. They can also help you find the top of your base cabinets.
Mark a reference line to represent the bottom of the upper cabinets
To install cabinets, you need to mark a reference line representing the bottom of the upper cabinets. This is a good idea if you install base cabinets in the kitchen. The resulting level line will run across the walls, parallel to where the front edge of the cabinets will end.
The best way to mark a reference line is to use a level. You will want to use a good carpenter’s level. Make sure to hold it to the wall to keep the lines plumb. If you are in a pinch, you can use a shim to help level the lines.
While at it, consider using a leveler to mark the floor to indicate the high spot. After you have drawn a level line along the walls, it’s time to measure the wall.
Dry-fit the cabinets
Dry-fit kitchen cabinets can be installed without moving the cabinet frames. Before starting the process, however, you will need to ensure the walls are level. Then, you can mark the cabinets’ locations on the wall.
You can choose to mount cabinets to the wall or a stud. Either way, you will need to drill pilot holes. Typically, 3-inch #10 screws are used to secure the cabinets to the studs.
After you have drilled the holes, you will need to shim the cabinets to ensure they are level. You can use wood shims to do this. If the cabinets are not level, you can place a 2×4 on the wall at the highest point.
Moving and positioning the cabinets without the drawers and doors attached
Moving and positioning kitchen cabinets without doors and drawers can be a bit of a challenge. Thankfully, the right tools and extra help can go a long way. However, before moving your cabinets around, you’ll need to figure out how to get them to fit into your new home. In addition to getting them shimmed up, you’ll need to ensure they are square, level, and flush with the rest of your house. The following are some tips and tricks that will help you out.
Firstly, measure the front-to-back height of the cabinet. This will be used as a starting point for your measurements. Similarly, you’ll need to determine how wide the cabinet door is. Once you’ve established this, use a pry bar to separate the two.
