If you want new kitchen cabinets, but are on a limited budget, consider installing them yourself. If you are handy and have done other home remodelling jobs, you will save a lot of money by supplying your own labor. The cabinets you purchase will come with an installation guide. Make sure you read and follow it carefully.



The first thing you have to do is check the cabinets thoroughly when they are delivered. Check for damage, and also to make sure that all of the components have been included. Now that you know you have all of the material for the job, make sure you have the right tools for the job.

It is important to use the proper fasteners and screws that are suitable for cabinets. Use new screws and make sure they are the right size for cabinets.

Here is a list of the tools you will need to do a kitchen cabinet installation:

o Carpenter square

o Carpenter level

o Tape measure

o Hammer

o Straight edge

o Drill

o Drill bits

o Chalk line

o Screw driver (power driver is best)

o Masking tape

o Utility knife

o Jigsaw

o Miter saw

o Step ladder

o Furniture clamps

o Shims

o Circuit tester

o Bit sander

Safety should be your first concern when you are installing cabinets. Have someone help you lift them since they are heavy. Wear proper garments, including work boots and safety goggles. Keep your work area clean of debris and dirt so as to avoid falls.

Turn off all of the electricity when you start the job. Turn off the power in the kitchen and check the circuit with a circuit tester to make sure there is no current. Disconnect and move appliances. Usually a stove will have an individual breaker, so make sure this is disconnected. Make sure you turn off the water supply to the sink before you remove that. Open the faucets to run all of the water out and disconnect the water and garbage disposal lines.

If you stick to the existing plan, it will be a lot easier to install the cabinets. If you have decided to change the layout, the utilities will have to be moved, and you should hire a professional for this. Moving the electric, gas and water lines is not for amateurs and if you make a mistake you will end up paying a lot more than you would have if you just hired the pros.

The first step now is to remove the old cabinets. If you are going to put down a new floor, you will not have to be careful of the old one. If not, tape heavy cardboard down over the existing floor to protect it. Since the cabinets are removed, now is the time to repair any wall damage.

Now that you are ready to do the installation, reread the instructions again and make sure you know how to proceed. If you have any questions, call customer service to get them answered before you start the project.