How to Install Kitchen Cabinets & Countertops

Do-it-yourselfers can save big money installing cabinets and countertops.

Kitchen renovations add value to your home. Whether it's for you to enjoy or the next owners, updating cabinets and countertops is still a smart investment. Remodeling magazine reports that a kitchen remodel helps sell a house faster and for a more money yet it doesn't guarantee a seller makes back all costs. This is where do-it-yourselfers make their mark. Kitchen installation estimates may leave you clutching your wallet and gasping for air. With a little know-how, an arsenal of tools and lots of patience, installing your own cabinets and countertops may save you thousands.

Things You'll Need

• Cabinets with installation hardware
• Countertop with installation hardware
• Suspension Rails
• Wall Strip (1x2 boards)
• Sink
• Stud finder
• Measuring tape
• Rasp/file
• Screwdrivers (flat head and Phillips)
• Pencil
• Hammer
• Rubber Mallet
• Fine-tooth saw
• 4-foot level
• Awl
• Mitre box
• Jig saw (if sink space isn't precut in counter top)
• Clamps
• T-square
• Drill
• Ladder
• Saw horses
• Protective eye gear

Instructions

Hang wall cabinets

1. Mark the wall where the top edge of your cabinet will rest, measuring from the highest point in your floor. Place a second mark for the bottom edge of the suspension rail 2 ½ inches below the first mark. Draw a horizontal line at both points on the wall using your level.

2. Find wall studs using a stud finder. Mark the position of each stud along the suspension rail line.

3. Measure the total length of wall cabinets to be installed along one wall. Cut the suspension rail to match.

4. Secure the suspension rail to the wall using the appropriate hardware for your type of wall.

5. Mount wall cabinets by lining up the cabinets pre-drilled holes with the suspension rail. Secure loosely using the recommended hardware. Start with a corner cabinet and repeat with remaining cabinets.

6. Clamp adjacent cabinets together. Connect the cabinets using recommended hardware and remove clamps.

7. Tighten all mounting hardware.

8. Install shelves and attach doors and pulls.

Install base cabinets

1. Mark the wall where the top edge of your lower cabinet will rest, measuring from the highest point in your floor. Place a second mark for wall strip 4 5/16 inches up from the floor. Draw a horizontal line at both points on the wall using your level. Locate and mark the position of studs along the wall strip line.

2. Measure the spaces where base cabinets will be installed, omitting spaces for appliances. Cut wall strips to match.

3. Position the top edge of the base cabinet wall strip on the lower line. Secure to the wall with appropriate hardware at the studs.

4. Attach supports to the front edge of each cabinet according to instructions. Install each cabinet so the back edge rests on the wall strip. Secure loosely using the recommended hardware. Start with a corner cabinet and repeat with the remaining cabinets.

5. Clamp adjacent cabinets together. Connect the cabinets using recommended hardware and remove clamps.

6. Tighten all mounting hardware. Install filler pieces and toe kick. Insert shelves and drawers. Attach doors and pulls.

Install the countertop

1. Position the countertop on base cabinets, allowing any spaces recommended by the manufacturer. Include space for any cover panels and a ½ inch overhang. Mark with a pencil.

2. Cut countertop along marked lines. File down any rough edges.

3. Mark the spot for the sink. Check your sink assembly kit for specific instructions on positioning the hole for your sink. Drill a ½ inch hole at all four corners of sink outline. Insert jig saw and follow the cut line to create the sink opening. Install sink according to its instructions.

4. Place countertop pieces back on base cabinets. Attach using included hardware.

Tips & Warnings

• Enlist the help of a friend when hanging wall cabinets.

• Always start with a corner cabinet and work your way out.

• Before installing cabinets, mark and cut openings for plumbing, power outlets and other utilities.

• To avoid splintering your countertop, tape any areas to be cut. If you're using a power or table saw, cut with the bottom side facing up for the smoothest finish.

References

• Kitchen Installation Guide
• Kitchen Sense
• 2009-10 Cost vs. Value Report

Resources

• National Kitchen and Bath Association