Replacing cabinets

[wawa]

yeah...your mom is kinda missing some vital steps there.

first of all, even if you are sticking with the same layout you have no promises that the actual cabinets are the exact same dimensions. Second - it's not exactly easy to line up a cabinet with "existing holes" to attach it. And you wouldn't really want to anyway since you want a nice solid connection with the stud - not a screw in a hole of unknown size that might pull back out. Third you have no idea if the original cabinets were installed correctly to begin with.

So...that said - installing cabinets is not hard to DIY in that it doesn't take a lot of specialized knowledge or tools. It is one of those things that requires a lot of double checking and adjustments and patience though.

You'll need a couple of good levels. Clamps. And lots of shims. and patience. And a screwdriver and bits of course.

Installing cabinets following the old layout or the new layout is the same procedure, so you should be able to use those tutorials.

[thatgirl2478]

Well - even if you knew the existing holes were 'safe' how would you see them if the cabinet back covers them?

We thought about using RTA's but decided against them when we saw how cheap we could get these:

www.cliqstudios.com/

Already assembled, all plywood construction, quiet close doors are standard + there are tons of other upgrade options.

In any case, if you are going to do your own install you'll need:

a) a good level
b) clamps
c) some way to hold the upper cabinets up (if it's just the 2 of you doing the install)

I always recommend Cabinet Claws (http://www.amazon.com/Pony-8510BP-Cabinet-Claw-2-Pack/dp/B0000224BN/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1352746290&sr=8-1&keywords=cabinet+claw) for clamps because not only do they keep the cabinets clamped, but they keep the fronts alined AND they have a pilot hole to pre drill the screw holes AND screw them together all while clamped.

I also recommend a T Jack to help support your cabinets while you install them: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000224ON/ref=oh_details_o02_s00_i00

[thatgirl2478]

Nov 12, 2012 15:12:39 GMT -5 @fstopblues8 said:

I obviously need to post more, you ladies are very helpful. H is going to kill me tonight when I show him more cabinet options. And those clamps are in my amazon cart!

LOL - I know the feeling ... The women here inspired me to spruce up my living room with a new rug, curtains and eventually a new paint job... My DH is less than thrilled (even though he loves the new rug - pics in the am).

Oh and those claws & t jack are pretty much the only reason that we were able to install our cabinets without getting a divorce in the process.

[Deleted]

You may just want to post a craigslist ad for installers! I have done 2, going on 3 kitchens this year and it really is not simple. The layout and purchase is just the start, but many people can manage it, although it is nice to have input from an installer to see if they can alter or add anything to fit the space better. But the actual instal can be complicated depending on how straight your floors and walls are. Everything needs to be properly leveled and spaced, sometimes using shims or constructing new bases. Honestly, have a pretty big kitchen and only paid $1600 for install, of a house I flipped it only cost $1400. Money really well spent when you see exactly how much work is needed. If you want photos of an ikea kitchen I have some on my blog www.inthefunlane.com, just search under 'lexington'
All the cabinets came t $3000 (including the sink) and like I said, install was $1400 so under $5,000 for a whole kitchen.

[simpsongal]

I don't want to throw a wrench into your plans, but have you considered Ikea cabinets? Their higher end ones get pretty decent reviews. I looked into getting stock cabinets from Home Depot to build an island and read nothing but bad reviews. Cabinets are a huge investment - don't skimp too much.

[simpsongal]

I think so - someone on this board is installing a gorgeous ikea kitchen. And I think Jenny 1980 has them.

Here's a 2-page thread on ikea cabinets: pandce.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=mm&thread=78618&page=1#1302931

[Deleted]

There are toe kicks for the ikea cabinets, or you can install baseboards for a custom look. The legs are just to set the on, although my installer actually didnt use the legs, he built bases for me so that they were leveled easier and much more stable for the tall cabinets.

[pitterwoo]

I've been thinking about an IKEA kitchen myself and I get the impression that they could be a really good value. the website Ikea fans has tons on customizing ikea kitchens. www.ikeafans.com www.flickr.com/groups/ikeafans/