Installing base cabinets is a key component to completing a successful bathroom or kitchen remodeling project. Still, if you have never installed base cabinets before, you may be a bit uncomfortable with doing the job yourself. As such, for most people, it is best to hire a professional to the job. If you are determined to do the job yourself, however, you should be sure to keep these five simple tips in mind.
Tip #1: Leave Room for Appliances
When planning the layout of your base cabinets, be sure to leave space for appliances. In general, ranges and dishwashers fit into a 30-inch space. Be sure to leave an extra ¼-inch of space so you have the room necessary to move the appliance in and out for repairs and maintenance.
Tip #2: Install the Flooring and Wall Cabinets First
If you will be installing new flooring as part of your remodeling project, you should do this before you install the base cabinets. The baseboards, however, should be installed after the cabinets have been put in place. By installing the floor first, you ensure the floor flows seamlessly beneath the base cabinets while also achieving a professional finish with the baseboards. Similarly, you should install the wall cabinets before installing the base cabinets. This way, you will have the room necessary to install your cabinetry while also avoiding the possibility of damaging your base cabinets while putting your wall cabinets in place.
Tip #3: Find Your Highest Point
In order to ensure your cabinets are level after they are installed, you will first need to find the highest point on the floor. Then, measure the height of your base cabinets and mark this spot on the wall. Use this mark as your guideline to create a level mark all the way around the wall. This line will serve as your guide for installing your base cabinets. If there is extra space between the floor and the bottom of any of your cabinets, you will need to shim your cabinet up so it becomes level with the line.
Tip #4: Secure the Cabinets
After your first base cabinet has been successfully put in place, you can now add additional cabinets adjacent to the one that is secure. Next, clamp the base cabinets together and fasten them with countersunk wood screws through the cabinet sides or face frames. You should further secure the cabinets with 3-inch pan head screws attached to the studs.
Tip #5: Drill Holes as Necessary
Inevitably, you will need to install base cabinets around the pipes that are in the kitchen or bathroom. To do this, you will first need to measure the locations of the pipes. Next, you will need to drill holes in the sink base, taking care to make the holes ½-inch larger than the diameter of the pipe. This way, you will have extra room for adjustments. After the cabinet is in place, you can add the water-pipe valves and the drain-pipe adapter.
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