If your old cabinets are looking old or if you redesigned your kitchen you may want to install some new cabinets. You will need; screws, shims, saw, grout, square, level, stud finder, and caulking gun with caulk.




1) If you have decided that you need to replace the cabinets instead of refinishing or refacing them, start measuring for your new cabinets. Plan where and how big you want your new cabinets to be. If you can draw out plans, this is better than trying to keep everything in your head.



2) Make a list of all the things you will need. Most are above.



3) Remove the doors from the cabinets you are replacing and then remove the cabinets. Vacate all that is in the cabinets before unscrewing any screws. You will probably need someone to hold the cabinets as you take out the last screws.



4) Now is the time to paint if you planned on painting the room.



5) Assemble your new cabinets. Wait to put the doors on. If you have to assemble the cabinets from scratch, make sure they are square.  If you have upper and lower cabinets to assemble, do the upper ones first.



6) Install the cabinets doing the upper ones first. This is so you do not have to step over the bottom ones while you are installing the top cabinets. Locate the studs in the wall for the screws. If you measure sixteen to twenty four inches from one stud, you will likely find another stud. This is the most common spacing for studs in walls. While you are at it go down the wall and mark the studs for the lower cabinets. Someone will probably have to hold the cabinets up while you install a few screws.



7) If you marked the studs in the last step for the lower cabinets you are ready to set the lower cabinets in place and secure them. If one cabinet is higher than the others, use shims to raise the shorter ones. If these cabinets have a backing, make sure you do not cover an electrical outlet. If so, you can cut a hole in the cabinets for the outlets. The same for plumbing if a sink or garbage disposal will be in these cabinets.



8) You will likely install a counter top over these cabinets so use shims and a level to get them level. The front of the cabinets should look uniform. Test fit a counter top to see what work, if any, needs to be done to get it mated to the cabinets. The top screws in from inside the cabinets. It is important to use screws that will not protrude through the counter top. Be careful with this step.



9) Apply caulk to the rim around where the sink will be going. Install the sink. Secure it from underneath with brackets. Run a bead of caulk around the outer edges of the counter top for a water seal. This is important, especially for the wall, to prevent rotting and mildew.



10) Install the doors to the cabinets, adjust the doors with the hinges so that they fit correctly. You are done.



Enjoy your new cabinets.