DIY Network

Installing New Cabinets From "DIY to the Rescue" episode DTTR-207

After emptying the room, DIY to the Rescue helps Don and Stephanie assemble and install wall and base cabinets. While Amy and Karl help with this project, the contractors are busy creating a custom countertop. After the cabinets are in place, carpenter Nathan Haun installs new countertop lighting.

Wall Cabinet Installation

Materials:

Ready-to-assemble cabinets
Tape measure
4-ft. level
Screw gun
Stud finder
2-1/2" screws
Wood shims
Pencil
Clamps
1 x 2 Ledger board

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

1. Measure the height of the base cabinets. Most standard cabinets are 34-1/2" high. Add 1-1/2" for a standard countertop and 18" for a standard back splash. The total measurement should be 54" from the floor. This is where the upper cabinets will be positioned. If your floor is not level, be sure to measure from the highest point along the wall.

2. Draw a horizontal line across the wall at this point which will serve as a guide for hanging the cabinets. Be sure to use a level to assure this line will be true horizontal.

3. Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs (figure A). The wall studs are crucial to properly support the weight of the cabinets. Note: Pay careful attention to the position of all electrical wiring and plumbing.

4. Next, secure a ledger board to the wall at the studs (figure B) to temporarily support the weight of the cabinets during the installation. Be sure the doors and hardware are removed from the cabinets to make them lighter and easier to install.

5. Attach as many cabinets together as you can safely lift and install on the ledger board -- usually two Use clamps to fix the stiles (the vertical pieces on the face of the cabinet frames) of the cabinets together and check for plumb, making sure the fronts of the cabinets are flush.

6. Next, pre-dill and secure the two cabinets together at the stile with the screws (figure C). Affix one screw on the top and bottom in the front and back where the two cabinets meet.

7. Lift the cabinets onto the ledger board and check for plumb and level (figure D). Shim the cabinets if necessary.

8. Once you have shimmed for plumb and level, secure the cabinets into the wall at the studs. Be sure to pre-drill and affix the screws through the thicker framing piece along the top of the cabinets.

9. Check for plumb and level while you’re securing the cabinets. Repeat this process for all of the wall cabinets. If a gap exists between wall and last cabinet, use a filler bar to enclose the gap (usually provided by the manufacturer). Before securing the last cabinet, measure, mark, cut and secure this piece to the side of the last cabinet.

10. Attach the doors and hardware after all of your cabinets are hung. Remove the ledger board when you are finished installing the wall cabinets.

Figure E

RESOURCES :
Mill's Pride Cabinets
Phone: 800-441-0337
Web site: www.millspride.com