Plumbtile's Blog

DIY: Replacing Your Kitchen Cabinets

October 7, 2011 at 11:00 am plumbtile Leave a comment

Replacing your kitchen cabinets can seem like an overwhelming job that is best left to the professionals, but with time and patience, you can do your wallet a favor and attack this job on your own! The following guide will help you down the path of achieving the kitchen cabinets of your dreams.

Supplies Needed:
• Premade cabinets • Measuring tape
• Level • Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers
• Shims • Hammer
• Stud finder • Drill with drill bits and screwdriver attachment
• Hole saw • Screws
• Trim • Finish nails
• Chalk line • Utility knife
• Safety glasses • Flat pry bar

Step One: Preparation

Carefully remove the old cabinets from the walls by unscrewing them or prying them away if necessary.  Once the old cabinets are down, you will need to fill in any holes in the wall before proceeding.  This is also the time to paint or add any additional features such as an electrical outlet or a dishwasher hookup.

 

 

Step Two: Installing Upper Cabinets

Start by removing the new cabinet doors if they aren’t already detached.  Next, measure 54” above the floor to where the bottom of cabinet will rest (standard height.)  Using the chalk line, mark the wall at the correct level.  Starting with the corner cabinet, hold cabinet in place (2 people is preferable for top cabinets,) and drill a starter hole, then attach cabinet with wood screws at the studs.  Double check that cabinet is level before continuing with remaining upper cabinets.  Using a clamp to hold cabinets together while drilling may be helpful. Attach cabinets together with wood screws through frame trim for stability.

 

Step Three: Installing Base Cabinets

Set the first cabinet in along the floor and check to be sure it is level.  If not, gently tap wood shims along each side until it is level.  Continue to attach base cabinets using the same methods as the upper cabinets.  When placing the sink cabinet, check sink measurements to ensure pipes and sink base will properly fit into cabinet with door closed.  Cut out any holes in sink cabinet floor to accommodate plumbing. Also double check measurements of any appliances that will separate cabinets for proper fitting.

 

 

Step Four: Attaching Trim and Filler Shims

It is now time to add any trim or molding to your cabinets.  Using a level and wood screws, carefully attach the trim, making sure not to drive screw through the inside of cabinet.  Once done, use your level to double check each cabinet for gaps or openings and fill with wood spacers or shims.

 

 

 Step Five: Attaching Cabinet Doors

You are now ready to attach the cabinet doors and any hardware.  Using the hardware that came with your cabinets, carefully attach the doors to the cabinet frames, double checking that they are level and open and close freely.

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