Installing a surface mount medicine cabinet is a straightforward project that can enhance your bathroom storage and functionality. Unlike recessed cabinets which require cutting into the wall, a surface mount unit attaches directly to the wall surface.
Here’s a general guide on how to install one, ensuring a secure and level placement.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials:
- The Medicine Cabinet: Ensure it's a surface mount model.
- Mounting Hardware: Usually included with the cabinet (screws, anchors).
- Level: Crucial for ensuring the cabinet is straight.
- Drill and Drill Bits: For making pilot holes and driving screws.
- Stud Finder: Recommended for locating wall studs for secure mounting.
- Measuring Tape: To determine placement and mark points.
- Pencil: For marking the wall.
- Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes.
- Painter's Tape (Optional): To hold the mounting template or mark lines.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Follow these steps for a successful surface mount medicine cabinet installation:
H3: 1. Determine Placement
Choose the ideal location for your cabinet. Common placement is above the sink. Consider the height based on the users of the bathroom and ensure doors can open freely without hitting light fixtures or other obstacles. Use a level and pencil to draw a horizontal line on the wall where the top or bottom edge of the cabinet will sit.
H3: 2. Locate Wall Studs
The most secure way to mount a cabinet is by screwing directly into wall studs. Use a stud finder to locate studs behind the drywall in your chosen area. Mark the location of the studs on your horizontal line. If studs don't align with the cabinet's mounting holes, you may need to use appropriate wall anchors.
H3: 3. Mark Mounting Points
Most cabinets come with a mounting template, or you can use the cabinet itself.
- Using a template: Tape the template to the wall, aligning it with your horizontal line and stud marks. Mark the drilling points indicated on the template.
- Using the cabinet: With a helper, hold the cabinet against the wall, aligning it with your horizontal line. Use a level to ensure it's straight. Mark the locations of the mounting holes on the wall with a pencil.
H3: 4. Drill Pilot Holes
Based on your marked points:
- If mounting into studs, drill pilot holes slightly smaller than the diameter of your mounting screws.
- If using wall anchors (for mounting into drywall without studs), drill holes according to the anchor manufacturer's instructions. Insert the wall anchors into the holes.
H3: 5. Attach the Cabinet to the Wall
This step often requires a second person to hold the cabinet.
- Lift the cabinet and align its mounting holes with the pilot holes or wall anchors on the wall.
- Insert the mounting screws through the cabinet's mounting holes and into the wall.
- Use your drill or a screwdriver to drive the screws, securing the cabinet firmly to the wall. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the cabinet or the wall.
- Use a level one last time before fully tightening to ensure the cabinet is perfectly straight.
H3: 6. Add Shelves and Contents
Once your cabinet is firmly attached to the wall, finish the job by adding the shelves. Insert the shelf clips or supports into the desired slots inside the cabinet and place the shelves on top.
- Arrange your medicine, toiletries, and other items neatly on the shelves.
- Close the cabinet door to complete the installation.
Following these steps will help you successfully install your surface mount medicine cabinet, adding valuable storage space to your bathroom.
