How to Set Cabinets

Measure the back of the cabinet, along the height and width. Transfer that measurement to the wall, marking out a square with a pencil and level. Make the bottom line of the square the height you want the bottom of the cabinet -- 20 inches above the countertop is standard. Make sure all the lines are level and vertically straight, or plumb.

Locate each wall stud within the square, using the electronic studfinder. Mark out each stud with the pencil and level, drawing vertical lines inside the square.

Measure from one edge of the square to each of the vertical stud lines and record the positions. Transfer those marks to the back of the cabinet. For example, if the stud lines are at 10 inches and 26 inches in from one edge of the lines, mark lines on the back of the cabinet at 10 and 26 inches in from the edge.

Use your drill and pilot bit to drill two holes along each vertical line on the back of the cabinet, one 6 inches from the top and other 6 inches from the bottom.

Load the drill with a screwdriver bit. Hold the cabinet to the wall, within the marked area. Shoot mounting screws, with washers, through each pilot hole and into the studs.

Use your level to check the front cabinet for plumb, holding the level vertically along the front to determine if it's leaning forward or back. If it's leaning forward, loosen the screws along the bottom and shim out the cabinets to plumb. If it's leaning back, loosen the screws at the top and shim behind it at the top. Retighten the screws once it's straight.