Wall Cabinet Guidelines

Measuring the Space

• The first step of building wall cabinets is measuring the space where you plan to mount them. This should be done whether you are hanging a single cabinet or a group of several cabinets. You should measure the wall in terms of the length and height of the space that is hidden by the cabinets once they are mounted. Draw a pencil line to identify the space, as this guidance is needed once the mounting procedure begins.

Cabinet Dimensions

• Study the standard dimensions for wall cabinets. The depth of a wall cabinet depends on the counter top depth, as a 25-inch deep counter top requires a 12 1/4-inch deep cabinet, while a 30-inch deep counter top requires 15 inches in depth. The depth of the cabinets is consistent. The height of the wall cabinet is 30 inches with a full soffit, while no soffit requires a 42-inch tall cabinet. Smaller cabinets above stoves measure 24 inches in height, while those mounted above a counter top are 18 inches high. The highest shelf is located 60 to 68 inches above ground. The general width matches that of the base cabinets.

Preparing the Cabinets

• Wall cabinets are commonly built using top grade plywood, hardwood or softwood. The wood must be strong enough to hold the cabinet in place, as well as to support all of the items within. The wood pieces needed are one back panel, two sides and two ends. It is optional whether the cabinet has a door and internal shelves, but kitchen and bathroom cabinets commonly do to hide the contents.

Building Wall Cabinets

• The cabinets must be assembled one at a time to ensure consistency and straightness. Use a clamp and a squared ruler to ensure each connection is even. One uneven corner can throw the entire cabinet off, meaning that the shelves may be slanted. Nails or screws are both acceptable when connecting the wood pieces together to create the cabinet.

Mounting the Cabinets

• Mount one cabinet at a time. The cabinets may be heavy, so it is preferable that you have an extra pair of hands to help you hold the cabinet in place. Apply strong wood glue around the back perimeter of the cabinet, and place it against the pencil line you have drawn on the wall. Use the level to check the straightness of the cabinet. Aim for wall studs when you drill the cabinet in place on the wall, as these wooden beams provide additional support.