How to Build an I Brace for Installing Wall Cabinets

Installing upper cabinets will be much easier with an I brace.

Installing wall cabinet can be challenging if done yourself. It is difficult to hold the cabinet in position, level it and fasten it to the wall without a helper. If this is the case, you can build an "I" brace to hold the cabinets for you. Most wall cabinets are designed to be mounted 54 inches from the ground. Only three pieces of wood need to be cut to build a jig that will save hours of work.

Things You'll Need

• Particle board
• Tape measure
• Straight edge
• Pencil
• Circular saw
• Power drill
• 1 1/4-inch grabber screws

Instructions

1. Measure 6 inches on each end of the particle board sheet using a tape measure. Make a mark at 6 inches with a pencil at each end.

2. Place a straight edge on each line and make a mark along the particle board.

3. Cut a 6-inch section from the particle board using a circular saw.

4. Measure one strip to 54 inches. Make a mark using a pencil.

5. Cut the strip to 54 inches long using a circular saw. The piece should measure 6 inches by 54 inches. Cut two pieces to 20 inches using a circular saw. These should be 6 inches by 20 inches.

6. Place the 54-inch strip on a flat surface. Place the two 20-inch pieces to the top and bottom of the 54-inch piece horizontally at a 90-degree angle. Center the 20-inch pieces and fasten them to the 54-inch piece using a power drill and grabber screws. The brace should be in the shape of the letter "I."

References

• Ron Hazelton: Installing New Kitchen Cabinets