How Hard Is It to Install Kitchen Cabinets?

Assessing the Difficulty Level of Cabinet Installation

Whether you are undertaking an entire kitchen remodel, or you're just doing some touch-up work, choosing to install kitchen cabinets on your own can save you quite a bit of money on labor.

If you're comfortable with a few basic tools, such as an electric drill and a screwdriver, you should be able to pull it off if you take your time and move carefully.

Kitchen cabinets may seem like a simple upgrade, but there is a lot more that goes into the installation than people think. There's a lot of pressure on whoever is installing the cabinets because you need to get them right. Ideally, these cabinets will last you years. The last thing you want is for them to be unlevel or have crooked doors.

Required Tools and Materials for Installing Kitchen Cabinets

Measuring Tape and Pencil

A measuring tape is used to measure, as you would expect. You'll be measuring the kitchen area, the height of the ceiling, and the dimensions of the cabinets. This information helps you to determine the exact placement and positioning of the cabinets in the kitchen, ensuring that they fit correctly and are level.

A pencil is used to mark the measurements on the wall, floor, or ceiling, which helps you to see where the cabinets should be installed. These marks can also help you to avoid mistakes or confusion during the installation process.

Level and Stud Finder

Uneven cabinets can negatively affect the overall appearance of the kitchen and can make it difficult to open and close cabinet doors and drawers. It may seem like an unnecessary step, but by using a level, you can ensure that the cabinets are a level line and avoid any issues with either functionality or appearance.

A stud finder is used to locate the wall studs so that you can attach your cabinets to them instead of flimsy drywall. Studs provide the necessary support for the cabinets, and without them, the wall cabinets may not be securely attached.

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Cordless Drill and Drill Bits

A cordless drill allows you to drill pilot holes and drive screws quickly and efficiently. The fact that it's cordless also makes it easy to maneuver around tight spaces, which is necessary for installing cabinets.Drill bits are used with the cordless drill to make pilot holes for screws. There are many different sizes of drill bits, so make sure you have what you need for your specific job.

Screwdriver Set and Adjustable Wrench

We all know what a screwdriver set is used for. It's used to tighten and adjust screws. It is necessary to have a variety of screwdriver sizes and types on hand for a job such as this since you'll be working with different screw heads and sizes of screws.An adjustable wrench is another versatile tool every cabinet installer should have. It's adjustable to different sizes of nuts and bolts without all the hassle of interchangeable parts.

Clamps and Wood Shims

Clamps can be used to hold cabinets steady and level while they are being installed. This is especially useful when you are working alone or when installing larger cabinets that may be difficult to work with.Wood shims fill gaps between the cabinets and the wall or floor. You may need this because, in many cases, walls and floors are not perfectly level. Using shims can help to correct any issues both your wall and base cabinets might have.

Sawhorses and Workbench

A sawhorse provides a stable surface for cutting wood or working on cabinets. It is especially useful to cut or trim cabinets to fit a particular space.A workbench provides a flat and stable workspace for assembling cabinets or making adjustments. It can be used to clamp cabinets in place or to work on smaller pieces of wood, such as trim or molding. A workbench can also be used to store tools and supplies, keeping them organized and easily accessible.

Safety Goggles and Gloves

Safety goggles are highly recommended because they will protect your eyes from dust, debris, and flying particles that can be generated from drilling, sawing, or hammering.Gloves protect your hands from sharp edges and splinters. It may seem a little clunky at first, but they ensure you can complete your kitchen cabinets project safely.

Ladder and Assorted Screws and Fasteners

If you're only installing base cabinets, you may not need a ladder. However, installing all the cabinets means that you'll be working at varying heights all over the kitchen. You will need a ladder to help you reach those difficult places.Always have a variety of screws and fasteners on hand for any situation. This installation process requires a lot of diversity, so save yourself the trouble and have a little collection on hand.

Key Steps in the Kitchen Cabinet Installation Process

Remove Existing Cabinets and Prep the Area

Clear out all the old cabinets and clean up any debris or dust that was left behind. You will need a clean workspace with plenty of room to begin.

Assemble and Organize the New Cabinets

Before any assembly begins, inspect your cabinets. Open up the packaging and make sure they're the size, color, style, and quantity that you ordered. While at it, check for any damage that might have occurred during shipping.Once you're confident in what you have received, start assembling.

Measure and Mark Cabinet Placement

Going over the cabinet layout in detail could save you lots of trouble in the future. Look for the highest point on the floor, and from that point out, mark a level layout line. You will want your base cabinet height to be on par with that line, no matter what.Check for vertical bumps along the walls so that you aren't surprised by them when installing your wall cabinets.

Install Upper Cabinets First

Always begin in a corner. Remove the cabinet doors and set them aside. Label the doors so you don't forget which door goes to which cabinet.

Hang Base Cabinets and Ensure Levelness

Before sealing the deal, double-check the levelness of your cabinets. It is easy enough to walk around the room with your level in hand and check your work.

Secure Cabinets to Wall and Each Other

Clamp the cabinets to each other and secure them to the walls and each other.Always attach cabinets by the face frames, never through the side panels.

Attach Cabinet Doors and Hardware

If you labeled your cabinet doors, this should be very easy. Grab your screwdriver and the hardware, then set to work.

Make Final Adjustments and Touch-Ups

Make sure that each cabinet hinge is tight, none of the doors squeak, and so on. There you have it! Your kitchen cabinets are installed.

Tips and Tricks for Successful Kitchen Cabinet Installation

Plan Your Layout in Advance

Don't wait until you've purchased cabinets to figure out a layout. It is best to go into the installation process with a detailed game plan. It will save you time and money to do it this way.

Use a Ledger Board for Upper Cabinets

A ledger board is a temporary support for upper cabinets. It eliminates a lot of difficulties while it holds the cabinets level and in place while you're installing.

Start with Corner Cabinets

Since corner cabinets are a tricky shape, it is best to get them out of the way first. Not only is it easiest to install them first, but it also gives you a fantastic starting place for both the wall and the base cabinets.

Double-Check Measurements and Levels

Always double-check your work. Doing it once is not enough in this sense. It only takes one messed-up measurement to cause you a world of pain.

Adjust and Shim Cabinets as Needed

The shims are designed as adjustment tools. Don't forget that you can move or change them depending on your needs.

DIY vs. Hiring Professionals: Which is Right for You?

There is not one option that works for every person. Since each situation is unique, what you need to pursue will also be unique. There are many pros of hiring a professional (such as not having to do the work yourself, having a timeline they have to hold to, a cleanup crew, etc.). Still, there are also cons, such as not being able to pick the timeline and not being in control of the work.With DIY, you're accepting more responsibility and ensuring that you choose what happens with your cabinets. Some people enjoy knowing that it's their hands that finish the work. Others love the comfort of relying on someone else's many years of experience.Both routes have advantages and disadvantages. Pick the option that gives you the most comfort and security.