Installing cabinets on your own is a manageable project that involves careful planning and following a sequence of steps to ensure they are level, plumb, and securely attached.
Based on typical cabinet installation processes, and specifically incorporating the key steps outlined in the provided reference, here is a guide to installing cabinets yourself:
The process generally begins with preparing the space and marking layout lines on the walls. Once preparation is complete, you can proceed with the physical installation following these steps:
- Step 1: Place the Corner Cabinet. Start by positioning your first cabinet, typically a corner cabinet if your layout includes one. This unit often serves as the anchor and starting point for the rest of the run.
- Step 2: Drill, Position and Shim the Second Cabinet. Prepare the second cabinet by drilling pilot holes where it will connect to the first cabinet. Position it next to the first one. Use shims behind the cabinet and under its base as needed to ensure it is perfectly level and plumb (vertically straight), aligning its face frame flush with the first cabinet.
- Step 3: Drill Additional Pilot Holes. Once the second cabinet is positioned and shimmed correctly, drill additional pilot holes, particularly through the shims into the wall studs for securing the cabinet later. You'll also drill pilot holes through the face frames where the cabinets meet.
- Step 4: Cut Holes for Plumbing. If you are installing a base cabinet that will house a sink, you will need to cut necessary holes in the back of the cabinet for plumbing supply lines and the drainpipe. This is typically done before final placement or securing.
- Step 5: Shim Under the Base. Continue installing base cabinets, shimming under the base of each unit as needed to ensure they are level front-to-back and side-to-side, and that the tops of the cabinets form a straight line.
- Step 6: Put the Last Cabinet in Place. Install the final cabinet in the run, positioning and shimming it just like the others to ensure alignment with the previously installed cabinets and the wall.
- Step 7: Attach the Filler Strip. If there are gaps between the end cabinets and the walls, measure and cut filler strips to size. These strips are then attached to the face frames of the cabinets to bridge the gap and provide a finished look.
- Step 8: Tighten the Cabinet Screws. With all cabinets positioned, shimmed, and aligned, securely tighten all screws. This includes the screws connecting cabinets together through their face frames and the screws securing the cabinets to the wall studs (through the shims where necessary).
By carefully working through these steps, ensuring each cabinet is level, plumb, and properly aligned before permanently securing it, you can successfully install cabinets on your own.
