Choose the Right Cabinets
When selecting cabinets, consider factors like:
- Intended use – Base cabinets for storage and countertop support vs. wall cabinets for display and extra storage.
- Size – Standard cabinet sizes are 12″, 18″, 24″ etc. Measure your space and design the layout before purchasing.
- Materials – Wood, laminate, and thermofoil options. Hardwoods like oak are durable but expensive.
- Quality – Look for solid wood doors, sturdy base cabinet frames, and quality hardware. Avoid cabinets with flimsy back panels or frames.
- Style – Door style and finish impacts the aesthetic. Consider shaker vs. inset cabinets or stain vs. painted finishes.
Purchase all the cabinets and accessories for the whole kitchen at once to ensure everything matches.
Prepare the Work Area
Before starting, thoroughly prepare the installation area:
- Remove existing cabinets if this is a remodel.
- Protect flooring, countertops, and other surfaces with drop cloths.
- Have all tools (drill, level, stud finder, etc.) ready and within reach.
- Clear the area of obstructions.
- Turn off electricity and water supply lines if working near those areas.
Proper prep prevents accidents and damage.
Locate and Mark Studs
Kitchen cabinets must be securely fastened to wall studs for proper support. Use a stud finder to locate studs and mark them off:
- Studs are usually 16 inches apart from center.
- Verify edges of studs with the stud finder.
- Use painter’s tape or permanent marker to indicate the center of each stud on the wall and ceiling.
Accurately marking studs takes the guesswork out of installation.
Determine Cabinet Layout
With the studs marked, map out the cabinet layout:
- Place cabinets in position on the floor and against the walls.
- Check for obstructions and make adjustments.
- Mark locations with painters tape or pencil. Mark corners and drawer/door clearance spots.
- For base cabinets, draw plumb lines for the front edges to align everything.
Take measurements and tweak the layout until the alignment is perfect.
Mount Wall Cabinets First
Installation order is important for proper fitting and alignment:
- Mount wall cabinets first, starting with upper corner cabinet. They must be level and plumb with shims.
- Install filler strip/soffit if needed to fill gaps between wall cabinets and ceiling.
- Mount base cabinets by toenailing into studs through the cabinet back. Use shims to level, plumb and align.
- Finally, install remaining trim pieces like crown molding.
Leaving base cabinets for last allows flexibility for adjusting fit.
Use Proper Mounting Hardware
Sturdy mounting hardware keeps cabinets securely fastened to the wall and ceiling:
- For stud mounting, use #8 or #10, 3-4 inch wood screws and washers. Predrill holes.
- For drywall, use toggle bolts or molly bolts.
- Hang wall cabinets with French cleats or ledger boards anchored securely to studs.
- For ceiling mounts, use threaded rod hangers with flanges and washers.
Following manufacturer hardware recommendations prevents cabinets from loosening over time.
Ensure Proper Cabinet Spacing
Adequate spacing makes cabinets functional and gives the kitchen an integrated look:
- Wall cabinets should be 18-24 inches above countertops or base cabinets.
- Base cabinets should be installed 2-4 inches from the wall for countertops, backsplash and utilities.
- Spacing between cabinets depends on fillers, appliances and layout requirements.
Check cabinet alignment and plumb as you go to keep everything spaced correctly.
Use Shims Liberally
Shims fine-tune the fit of cabinets and ensure level, plumb alignment:
- Use tapered wood shims to fill gaps between cabinets, walls, ceilings and floors.
- Position shims behind wall cabinet mounting strips and under base cabinets.
- Adjust shims with a hammer as needed until cabinets are perfectly positioned.
- Break off protruding shim ends after installation.
Strategic shim placement distributes weight properly and prevents cabinets from shifting.
Anchor to Studs Securely
All kitchen cabinets must be secured to wall studs for stability and proper support:
- Use longest screws possible to reach wall studs.
- Ensure screws penetrate studs by at least 1 inch.
- Drill angled pilot holes for toenailing base cabinets to studs.
- Use fender washers to reinforce connections and prevent tearing.
Proper stud attachment provides tremendous weight support for hanging cabinets.
Double Check Alignment
As a final step, thoroughly check the cabinet installation alignment from multiple angles:
- Align cabinet faces in a straight line down the wall with drawers/doors centered.
- Ensure all cabinets are plumb, especially upper corner cabinets and stove hood.
- Confirm countertops will sit level across base cabinets.
- Doors and drawers should open/close smoothly without rubbing.
- Fill gaps between cabinets and walls/ceilings with caulk or trim pieces.
Carefully check for any misalignment and adjust as needed before finalizing the job.
Hanging kitchen cabinets is a satisfying DIY project that can completely transform your home. Following these tips will help you install sturdy, well-aligned cabinets that function and look great for years to come. Let the above guide inspire you to take on this rewarding project!
Frequently Asked Questions About Hanging Kitchen Cabinets
What tools do I need to hang kitchen cabinets?
Some essential tools for hanging kitchen cabinets include a stud finder, laser level, drill and drill bits, tape measure, carpenter’s square, shims, screwdrivers, hammer, cabinet jacks, and clamps. Safety gear like glasses and dust mask are also recommended.
Should I hang upper or lower cabinets first?
It is best practice to hang wall cabinets first, starting with upper corner cabinets. Hanging wall cabinets provides anchoring points to align and install base cabinets later.
How much weight can cabinet screws hold?
Most cabinet screws can hold between 100-500 lbs depending on size, materials, and whether they are secured in a stud. Sturdy toggle bolts in drywall hold around 100 lbs per screw.
What is the standard height for bottom kitchen cabinets?
Standard height for base kitchen cabinets is 34 1/2 inches. However, heights between 30-36 inches are common depending on preferences, counters, and appliances.
Should cabinets be spaced off the wall?
Yes, wall cabinets should be spaced about 1/2 inch off the wall for backsplash clearance. Base cabinets require 2-3 inches of space for countertops and utilities.
How do I hang cabinets perfectly level?
Use a laser level and shims to hang cabinets level and plumb. Place tapered shims behind cabinets and adjust until the laser line is perfectly straight.
How do I fill gaps between cabinets and walls?
Fill visible gaps with caulk, trim pieces or backer boards as needed for a seamless appearance. For hidden gaps, shims and spacers can fill voids between cabinets and walls.
Should cabinets align with ceiling or floor?
Kitchen cabinet alignment should always be based on the floor rather than the ceiling. Floors are more likely to be uneven, so aligning cabinets to the floor creates an even horizontal line.
Can I hang cabinets on drywall without studs?
Hanging on drywall alone is risky and can lead to cabinet failure. Always try to anchor cabinets in wall studs for sturdy support. Use hollow wall anchors if studs cannot be found.
Conclusion
Hanging kitchen cabinets is a doable project for most DIYers. Success comes down to careful planning, precise measurement, proper hardware, strategic shimming, and meticulous alignment. Take it slow, double check your work, and don’t be afraid to make adjustments. Your new cabinets will function beautifully and look professionally installed. With the right process, you can transform your kitchen in a weekend.