Dec 29, 2021
Have you ever heard of the phrase, “new year, new me?” Well, now let’s have a newer version, “new year, new home.” Though, let’s not take it too literally. Since the new year is near, why not have something new in your house? One thing you can try is installing new cabinets in your home. In this AllHome article, we’ll show you how you can do it by yourself.
Before starting with installing a new cabinet, you should remove all cabinet drawers and doors. You should also make sure to mark them as you go to make it easier to install a new cabinet.
If there is anything wrong with the walls or floors that need to be fixed, now is the perfect time to handle these types of problems while the cabinets are out of the way. Whether you want to refurbish your floors or replace them entirely, this is very doable before or after installing a new cabinet—depending on your choice. Just keep in mind to adequately cover off new flooring to prevent any possible damage during the cabinet installation. Don’t forget to repair any holes in your walls!
You should also address any plumbing or electrical problems before proceeding with your installation. Then, locate and identify all of the studs with a stud finder. After that, take a measurement from the ceiling and draw a line where the cabinets will go using a long level or you can rely on a laser level by configuring the laser level on the tripod a few inches away from the wall where the cabinets will be installed. The laser level will create a virtual chalk line. You can also draw markings using the laser lines as your guide.
Because cabinets can get pretty heavy, it’s best if you have an assistant with you as well as create a ledger strip. You need to install the support (ledger) strip on the studs that have been drawn out on the wall using some screws and an impact drill. This strip must be slightly below the bottom of the cabinets that you will install because they will temporarily bear the weight of the cabinets during the installation procedure and will help keep your cabinets straight.
A good AllHome tip is that when installing a cabinet, you should first start on the upper cabinets before the lower ones. You can also remove the cabinet doors and handles to make it easier for you to carry and install your cabinet.
Mount the cabinets to the studs in the wall. This is where your assistant can help you out in steadying the cabinet. Ensure that the marks on the top of the cabinets match the laser level’s markings or laser beam. Then, insert the screws through the denser cabinet frame first. Do the same process for the remaining cabinets if you have more. You can also use a toggle bolt as an extra attachment if a cabinet only covers one stud. Then, fasten the cabinets together by clamping them with a quick clamp, drilling a hole to prevent wood splitting, and driving screws through the bottom, middle, and top hardwood frame of your cabinet. Use a level to make sure that they are not uneven. Get a filler board provided by the manufacturer if there is a space between the wall and the last cabinet.
If you’re installing a kitchen cabinet on the sink area, evaluate the plumbing area and mark the locations where holes will be cut. Cut along the markings you have measured and gently raise the cabinet into place. Using a level and shims, position the cabinet to evenly join with the other cabinets you have installed. To keep them in place, use quick clamps.
Re-attach all of the cabinet doors and handles you have previously removed to your installed cabinets. Then, remove the ledger strip you have placed to support the upper cabinets.
Installing cabinets for your home is not as hard as you think! With the right tools and equipment, you’ll be able to save costs compared to hiring a professional. Though, it requires exerting a lot of physical work and effort. If you’re planning to replace or install new cabinets for your home, it is better to start as early as now or as late as the third week of December, so you could be able to prepare when the new year comes.
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