Cabinet Installation Basics for Tongue Grooves

Measuring

• Lay the tongue-and-groove doors over the cabinet and determine where the hinges will be placed. Mark the hinge locations onto the cabinet doors as well as the side of the cabinet. Lay the cabinet doors onto a flat surface and predrill the holes. Avoid applying unnecessary pressure to the cabinet facings while drilling the holes.

Hinges

• Install the hinges onto the facings first. Start by laying the hinge in place and aligning the holes. Position the screw and drill it into the cabinet with a screwdriver bit on your drill. Avoid overtightening.

Laying Out

• Take the cabinet faces over to the cabinet sides and place them into position. Mark the screw holes into the cabinet sides with a pencil and set the cabinet faces aside. Predrill the holes for the faces with a drill. Have a friend hold the door in place as you secure the hinges to the cabinet.

Testing

• Gently open and close the door several times. Check for proper alignment. Add felt tabs to the inside of the door to aid in gentle closing.