DIY Cabinet Install
Do you enjoy doing DIY projects? If so, you may find that installing your own cabinets is something you can do. Below I’m going to give you some tips and pointers on how to have a successful install and not want to pull out your hair. But first, let me recommend a few tools that will make your life easier. Note: I am not receiving any type of payment for recommending these products. They’re just ones I’ve used before to make the install much smoother.
FastCap Cabinet Jacks - These things are a must. And whether you install your bases first (which I prefer) or last, there are different sizes. These cabinet jacks allow you to hang upper cabinets without the strain of holding it and screwing it to the wall at the same time. Plus it makes it much easier to get the cabinets level.
Pony Cabinet Claw - This allows you to clamp the cabinet together and tighten the stiles, pre-drill and fasten the cabinet without having to remove the clamp. I recommend having at least 2-4 of these. This comes in a 2 pack from Amazon.
King Charles Cabinet Hardware Jig - This cabinet hardware jig will install a wide range of cabinet handle sizes. And once you get it all setup and figure out how to use it, your handles/pulls will go on quicker than you ever thought possible.
Now on to some tips for installing your own cabinets!
Having cabinets installed by a professional will typically run you around $1,500-2,500 give or take depending on the size of your kitchen and the detail level of your cabinets. So if you’re wanting to save some money, you can install your own cabinets, but here are some tips and tricks to make your life easier.
Set your bases first! I can’t stress this enough if you’re a first timer. You’re going to want to start from the corner cabinet…if you have one…and work your way out from there. Installing your bases first allows you to set a piece of plywood on top of it and use your cabinet jacks to put your upper cabinets into place with ease.
Take the time to level your cabinets and square them up. Not every floor system is level or every wall is straight…even in new construction…so make sure and check all that with a level before you begin. You’ll want to have some shims to assist in leveling your cabinets and to sure it is straight once you finish.
Take off your doors when installing cabinets next to each other. I’ve found it easier to clamp your cabinets together and fasten together with trim head screws. Typically a 2 1/2” trim screw will do the trick. If you’re installing white cabinets, it’s a good idea to get white trim screws and finish them flush with the cabinet. They’ll basically blend in to the cabinet facing. TIP: Make sure and pre-drill your hole to avoid splitting the wood.
How to set your upper cabinets. Typically this is based on your countertop, but most tend to run between 1 1/4-1 1/2” thick. We recommend being 18” from the top of that countertop to the bottom of your cabinet. To make your math easier and it’s something that will typically work very well with whatever top you choose, we recommend setting your first corner cabinet or end cabinet at least 19 1/4-19 1/2” above the base cabinet. Once you’ve set your first upper and anchored it into a stud, you’ll be able to use your cabinet jacks on the next one to get it leveled into place. When the cabinet is level, screw them together just how you did your base cabinets (remember to pre-drill your holes) and then anchor it to the wall.
Since you’re likely to be installing semi-custom cabinets, make sure and order enough scribe and fillers. You’ll want fillers against walls to make sure your doors have enough room to open. And you’ll always want scribe molding to hide gaps in walls against the backs of cabinets.
There are bound to be more questions, and for clients ordering from us and using our Fabuwood cabinets, we will be happy to assist in answering more questions for you!