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DIY Guide to Installing Stacked Kitchen Wall Cabinets

If your kitchen is feeling cramped and cluttered, installing stacked wall cabinets can be a great way to maximize your storage space. By stacking an additional row of shorter cabinets over your existing wall units, you can practically double the storage capacity without taking up any additional floor space. While it may seem intimidating, installing stacked cabinets is a very doable DIY project for most homeowners. You'll learn insider tips for ensuring your cabinets are securely and seamlessly installed.

Stacked cabinets are an efficient storage solution that can completely transform the look and functionality of your kitchen design. Let's get started!

stacked kitchen wall cabinets

Step 1: Pre-Installation Preparations

The first step is making sure you have fully prepared your space and gathered all the necessary supplies. Proper planning and preparation will make the installation process go smoothly.

Measure Your Kitchen Space

Take detailed measurements of the wall space where you plan to install the stacked cabinets. Note the width of the wall, height to the ceiling, and exact dimensions of the existing lower cabinets. This allows you to determine the ideal stacked cabinet dimensions and layout. Pay attention to potential obstructions like pipes or vents that could impact placement.

Determine Ideal Cabinet Height and Layout

Standard kitchen wall cabinets are 30-36 inches high. The upper stacked cabinets should be around 18-24 inches in height. However, you can customize this based on your ceiling height and preferences. Decide on the ideal height spacing between your lower and upper cabinets.

Also determine the best cabinet configuration. How many base and upper units will fit the space? Include all necessary measurements in your purchasing order.

Purchase the Stacked Wall Cabinets

Order your stacked wall cabinets based on the measurements and layout you determined. When purchasing, opt for quality materials like plywood boxes and durable finishes that will withstand daily wear and tear. Get any specialty organizational features or accessories during this step.

Gather Required Tools and Materials

Installing stacked cabinets requires an assortment of tools and supplies. Be sure you have on hand:

Having these essential items ready ahead of time prevents delay.

Step 2: Mark and Prepare the Installation Area

Now comes the fun part - time to roll up your sleeves and start prepping the installation area. Proper marking and prep ensures your cabinets mount securely in the optimal position.

Mark Stud Locations on the Wall

Use a stud finder to detect and mark the studs in the installation area. Cabinets should be screwed into the studs for maximum support. Make sure to mark stud center points for later reference.

Mark Height for Bottom and Top Wall Cabinets

Based on your height measurements, use a level and painter's tape to mark clear horizontal lines showing:

Double check all height measurements at this step.

Create Level Lines for Mounting

Use your level tool to draw vertical plumb lines from the floor to ceiling. Align these with your stud center marks. This gives you level mounting lines for each cabinet edge.

Prepare the Wall Surface

Fill any holes or imperfections in the wall with filler and sand smooth. Clean the surface so cabinets mount directly to the wall. Now your workspace is prepped and ready for cabinet installation.

Step 3: Mounting the Wall Cabinets

Now for the fun part - it's time to get those cabinets up on the wall! Follow these steps for a secure wall-mounted installation:

Attach Wall Mounting Rails

Screw sturdy mounting rails into the stud marks you made earlier. These provide a permanent support system for the cabinet framework to attach to.

Mount the Lower Cabinets First

Begin by lifting each base cabinet into place, flush against the wall. Use a level to double check it is perfectly plumb. Drill pilot holes through the cabinet frame into the wall studs. Secure with screws.

Ensure Cabinets are Level

Verify the cabinets are completely level before moving on. If needed, insert shims between the wall and cabinet to adjust. The base units must be level for the uppers to align properly.

Mount the Upper Stacked Cabinets

Once the lower cabinets are securely installed, lift the stacked upper cabinets and fasten into place on top. Follow the same process, drilling into studs and checking for level.

Verify Alignment Between Lower and Upper Cabinets

With both cabinet rows mounted, examine the alignment where they meet. There should be a consistent line with no gaps. Make any necessary adjustments before moving to the next step.

Step 4: Installing Interior Fittings

Your stacked wall cabinets are up - but you still need to add the interior fittings and hardware that transforms them into functional storage.

Install Cabinet Shelves

Insert the desired shelves in each cabinet, securing into the pre-drilled shelf holes. Position shelves based on the storage needs of that particular cabinet.

Add Drawer Slides and Drawers

For drawer cabinets, attach full extension drawer slides into the pre-cut grooves. Once secured, insert drawers and ensure they open and close smoothly.

Attach Hinges and Doors

Position door hinges and attach doors, adjusting as needed for proper alignment. Add soft-close hinges for gentle, quiet closing.

Install Pull Handles and Knobs

Finish off your new cabinets by installing attractive hardware pulls, knobs or handles on all doors and drawers.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

You're in the home stretch! Apply these finishing touches for a seamless, built-in look.

Seal around Cabinets to Wall

Apply a thin bead of adhesive caulk around the perimeter of the cabinets where they meet the wall. This seals any gaps and prevents moisture damage.

Add Trim Pieces for Seamless Look

Install coordinating trim pieces around the edges of the cabinets. This hides any imperfections and gives a seamless, custom look.

Organize Interior Cabinet Contents

Add drawer organizers, shelf liners, spice racks and other functional accessories to the insides. Arrange contents neatly. Your cabinets are ready for storage!

With proper planning, preparation and some DIY dedication, you can successfully install stacked kitchen cabinets to double your storage. Mounting the cabinets securely, aligning them properly, and adding the fittings are the key steps.

The result is a kitchen with increased function that looks polished and custom-designed. Just think of all the extra dishes, cookware and pantry items you now have room for! Maximizing vertical storage is a great way to unlock a kitchen's potential.

For more information on purchasing and installing stacked kitchen wall cabinets:

With the right preparations and materials, you can DIY your way to expanded storage space and a refreshed kitchen aesthetic with stacked wall cabinets.

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