How to Successfully Install Your New Kitchen Cabinets by Yourself

This article will take you through the steps of installing new cabinets in your kitchen. We will specifically discuss how to choose the appropriate cabinets for your kitchen, how to remove your old cabinets and how to successfully install your new kitchen cabinets. The first step in the process would be to select the color and style of your cabinets.

When selecting a style for your new cabinets, it's very important to try and keep within the overall design of your home. If you have wood floors then try to match as closely as possible the new cabinets with the wood floors. Also, if you have wood trim throughout your house it will be very important to try and match your existing trim with your new cabinets. As an example, if your home has existing oak floors and trim it would be wise to go with oak cabinets. Also keep in mind functionality, design your cabinets around they way you plan to use your new kitchen. After you have made the decision on the color and style of your new cabinets it's time to get busy and tear out your old cabinets.

Before removing your old cabinets, first remove all your appliances and then remove the kitchen sink and disposal. Start with the removal of your upper cabinets first. Most cabinets are anchored with screws into the wall studs. Try to locate these screws in each cabinet and remove them. Remove the cabinet's one section at a time until all upper sections are down. If you're cabinets are very old, like 30 to 40 years, they may have been constructed in place. If this is the case, you may have to cut them in sections with a saw or slowly beat them apart with a hammer. Once the upper sections are down then continue on with the lower cabinets. When you get the lower cabinets removed you are now ready to install your new kitchen cabinets.

Your new kitchen cabinets will normally be delivered boxed and in sections. Insure that your new cabinets will fit by measuring first and then pre-marking your walls where each section will be installed. For the upper section, marked a line on the wall where the bottom of the cabinets will be located, make sure the line is level. Install a temporary 2 x 4 with the top of the board on the line. Now set each section, one at a time, on the 2 x 4 and secure it to the wall studs with screws. Make sure each section is a level and tight. Once the upper cabinets are installed begin installing the lower cabinets. Make sure each section of the lower cabinets is level in both directions before screwing them to the wall studs.

Installing your own kitchen cabinets is really not that difficult if you take your time and pay attention to detail. So remember, first select the appropriate style and color for your kitchen cabinets then take your time removing the appliances, sink and disposal and old kitchen cabinets. Finally, install your new kitchen cabinets. Following these three basic steps will allow most homeowners to experience the pride of installing their new kitchen cabinets by themselves. Just think of all the money you will save!