Framing Methods for Hanging Cabinets

Creating the Frame

• A cabinet frame is the outer perimeter of the cabinet that keeps the shelf in place. The frame serves both as the sides and ends of the cabinet and also as the primary surface used for mounting wall cabinets. The frame is created using wooden panels for the sides, ends and shelves. Construct the frame by placing the side and end panels on their sides to create a rectangle or square. Use nails or screws to attach the pieces, creating a firm frame. The shelves and back panel are added after the primary frame is constructed.

Direct-on-Wall Mounting

• The cabinet's frame plays a major part in direct-on-wall cabinet mounting. In this process, the entire backside of the cabinet is mounted directly on the wall and held in place by long screws that protrude through the wall and attach to wall studs. Before drilling the cabinet in place, a layer of wood glue is added to the back side to add extra adhesion. The frame itself is what keeps the cabinet in place on the wall.

Plywood Panels

• The plywood panel mounting approach involves mounting two plywood panels to the wall where the cabinet will be installed. The plywood panels are attached to the wall studs and provide additional support to the cabinet's frame. The cabinets are then mounted to the plywood panels using screws. This method involves using the cabinet's back frame as the main attachment to the plywood panels.

Useful Tools

• Specific tools and woodworking supplies are required when hanging cabinets using the frames as the primary source of support. A level is useful when placing the cabinets on the wall in the direct-on-wall method so the cabinets hang evenly. The level is also useful when mounting the plywood panels in the panel mounting method. In addition, a square ruler is also helpful to create the frame, so the corners are an even 90 degrees each time.