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How to Install Custom Cabinets Like a Pro

July 20, 2022 | Comments Off on How to Install Custom Cabinets Like a Pro

Before you begin installing custom cabinetry, you’ll want to know how to ensure they’re installed to a wall stud. You’ll also want to know how to install your cabinets flush against the wall and how to adjust drawer fronts afterward. Ultimately, your ultimate goal is to have beautiful cabinets in your home! But if you’re not an expert handyman, there are some tips you can follow to make the job go smoothly and quickly.

Installing a wall stud

Custom cabinet installation California to a wall stud like an expert, you’ll need to measure the wall, mark the centerline, and remove some pieces from the cabinet. To keep the centerline, mark with painter’s tape. Then, drill two-inch screws into the studs. Screw the cabinet to the wall studs, using the screws to hold the cabinet firmly in place.

First, mark the perimeter of your new cabinets with pencil lines, then use a stud finder to locate the wall studs. If you can’t locate studs, use a stud finder to find the wall studs and mark the locations of your fixtures and appliances. Keeping the wall studs is essential for installing custom cabinets to a wall stud like a pro.

The space between the studs should be the same as the distance between upper and lower cabinets. Next, find the most vital part of the lower cabinet, a horizontal bar or pressboard. Drill pilot holes in this part, and drill one through each stud. Finally, install the remaining cabinets after the corner cabinets have been installed.

Adjusting drawer fronts

If you are building custom cabinets, you should consider adjusting the drawer fronts after installation. To change the front, unscrew the back of the drawer and slide it in the opposite direction. You can also readjust the front of the drawer with a hammer. Once you have done this, you can reinstall the front.

If the front is tilted, use shims to adjust the angle of the drawer. Drill new holes if you cannot accommodate them while the drawer is open. You can also use tape to hold the front in place. Finally, check the drawer for proper alignment if you’ve glued the front down.

Choosing between a handyperson and a cabinet installer

The best way to choose between a handyperson and a cabinet installation professional is to consider the scope of the work. Although installing cabinets is not difficult, some things may require specialized tools. Renting or purchasing these tools can be expensive and take up space in your garage. Alternatively, you can hire a general contractor to handle the entire project, and he will bring in subs for the different trades. However, not all contractors have the necessary finesse to install cabinetry, so be sure to ask whether he has the appropriate experience.

When choosing a cabinet installer, you should avoid a contractor who pushes their services. That could result in hidden costs and delays in your renovation. 

Materials for custom cabinetry

When planning the materials for your custom cabinetry, consider the characteristics of the wood you choose. For example, Oak and maple are strong hardwoods with similar grain patterns. On the other hand, Cherry is a warm, elegant choice for traditional kitchen design. However, the cherry’s wide range of colors makes it difficult to match, so this wood must be stained to achieve a balance of color. 

Plywood: Plywood is made by laminating thin layers of wood with the grain-oriented at right angles. As a result, the material is long-lasting and strong in all directions. Cabinet backs and sides are commonly made of plywood. Plywood cabinets are often lighter in weight than wood cabinets. Nonetheless, you must know that laminated wood is more susceptible to water damage and stains than wood. Hence, you must consider the longevity of the cabinets you plan to install.