Hang Kitchen Cabinets in 6 Simple Steps

Installing kitchen cabinets can be an intimidating task for any homeowner. But with the right tools and a systematic approach, you can hang kitchen cabinets securely and professionally in just 6 simple steps.

Hanging cabinets is actually quite straightforward once you know the proper techniques. By doing it yourself, you'll save significant time and money compared to hiring contractors. This step-by-step guide will show you how to safely and efficiently mount cabinets for a stunning new kitchen.

Step 1: Find and Mark the Wall Studs

The first critical step is locating the wood studs within your wall and marking their centers with a pencil. Studs provide solid attachment points to securely screw the cabinets into the wall framing.

Use an electronic stud finder to identify stud locations. Simply place the finder against the wall and move it slowly across the surface until it detects a stud, then mark it. Studs are usually spaced 16 inches apart in standard wall framing.

Locating Hidden Studs

If you're unable to locate studs with a finder, try knocking along the wall and listening for a solid vs. hollow sound. Or check for nail pops that may indicate stud edges. Use painters tape right on the wall surface to mark all found stud centers.

Mark stud locations carefully, as you'll need to precisely drill pilot holes and install screws into the stud framing later on. Don't rely on drywall alone to hold heavy cabinet weight.

Step 2: Prepare and Mark Cabinet Height

Now that you've mapped the stud locations, take time to fully prepare the cabinets for mounting. First, remove any doors, drawers or shelves from cabinet boxes. This makes them lighter and easier to temporarily hang.

Next, position and level a ledger board on the wall at your desired height. Standard placement is 18-24 inches above the counter surface. Use a pencil to trace the height line onto the wall across all stud markings.

Adding Reinforcements

Before mounting, it's smart to install horizontal hanging rails or cleats onto the cabinet backs. These provide extra stability and more screw points. Make sure any hardware and reinforcements don't interfere with cabinet interiors.

After marking stud centers and desired cabinet height, use a tape measure to map out the overall cabinet layout. Mark their widths and spacing so they align with studs and fit together perfectly.

Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes

With your layout mapped and marked, it's time to drill. Use a drill bit slightly smaller in diameter than your mounting screws. Drill pilot holes into the marked studs where cabinet top screws will go.

For lower cabinets or areas between studs, use drywall anchors. Drill pilot holes for the anchors first, then insert them into the wall fully. The pilots ensure you drill into studs or anchors accurately.

Avoiding Drywall Damage

Pilot holes prevent cracking the drywall face when screws are driven in. Drilling into studs is most secure, but anchors can adequately hold average-weight lower cabinets.

The pilots should align precisely with the hanging rails or cleats on the back of each cabinet for a seamless installation. Having helpers pre-drill all holes makes mounting easier.

Step 4: Mount the Cabinets

Now for the actual cabinet mounting. Have helpers lift and hold each cabinet in place against the wall, lined up with your layout lines. Insert the upper cabinet screws into their pilot holes first to anchor the top.

Use shims underneath to level as you go, filling any gaps. Continue driving screws into all pre-drilled stud or anchor holes, securing every possible attachment point.

A Secure Wall Bond

Ensure tops and bottoms are fastened tightly and plumb. Verify cabinets are square by measuring the diagonal corners. Add additional shims if needed until cabinets are true and aligned.

Take care not to over-tighten screws, as this can damage cabinet materials or strip out holes. A snug, flush fit is the goal for each cabinet and the row together.

Step 5: Complete the Installation

Once firmly screwed into the wall at shimmed heights, re-install the doors, drawers, shelves and hardware you removed earlier. Now you can safely load up your newly hung cabinets!

Take time to caulk any cracks between walls and cabinets for a seamless look. For extra strength, drive additional screws through cabinet sides into adjacent boxes.

Finally, step back and appreciate your professionally mounted, quality cabinets. When installed correctly using sturdy attachment points, they will serve your kitchen storage needs for many years.

With the right tools and techniques, you can execute this project smoothly. Now go forth and hang those cabinets like an expert!