Tools and Materials
Items may be Special Order in some stores. Product costs, availability, and item numbers may vary online or by market. Paint colors may vary slightly from those shown. Availability varies by market for lumber species and sizes.
Preparing for New Cabinetry
Our cabinet installation series helps you maximize storage space in your kitchen, garage, laundry room or closet. Your updated areas will look great with gorgeous new cabinetry, and you’ll feel good knowing you did it yourself.
How to Measure for Cabinets
When you're measuring kitchen cabinets, it's important to capture dimensions for the walls, doors and windows to the outside of the moulding. We'll show you how in six steps.
For measuring tips, watch our video: How Do I Use a Tape Measure?
Instructions
Demolition
If you’re unfamiliar with these steps, Lowe’s installation may be a great alternative to doing the project yourself.
For upper cabinet removal always use a helper.
Instructions
Prep
After your old cabinets are removed, repair the walls. Patch and smooth any holes and apply a couple of coats of paint to the area.
If your flooring is damaged, make any necessary repairs.
If you’re installing new floors in the area you’re adding cabinets, this is the time to do it. Adding flooring at this stage allows it to extend underneath the new cabinetry. The exception is if you’re installing a floating floor. In that case, you’ll want to install the cabinets first and run the flooring to the cabinet fronts.
Prior to Installation
Before installing the cabinets, mark the guidelines.
Instructions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How do you measure for kitchen cabinets?
A. Measure the walls, doors and windows to the outside of the moulding. Then measure from the bottom to the top of windows, the floor to the windows and the top of your windows to the ceiling. It's also important to include plumbing, electric and gas lines in your drawing.
Q: How do I figure out how many cabinets I need?
A. Once you've measured, use the Lowe's Kitchen Designer tool to help you determine how many cabinets you'll need. If you want more help, a Lowe's Kitchen Design Specialist can also schedule a free virtual consultation. Or you can always head to a Lowe's store where one of our associates can help you.
Q. Do you measure cabinets from the inside or outside?
A. In order to get the most accurate information, measure your cabinets from the outside.
Q. What is the best way to prep cabinets before painting?
A. Preparation is essential for a smooth and polished finish on your kitchen cabinets. For step-by-step directions, read How to Prep and Paint Kitchen Cabinets.
Q. What goes first cabinets or flooring?
A. In general, it's best to install the flooring before you put your base cabinets in. It allows for a cleaner transition between the flooring and the cabinets. However, if it's a floating floor, it should be installed after the cabinetry. The base cabinets need to be raised to a height just above the flooring to ensure that the appliances can easily fit later. For more information, read How to Install Kitchen Cabinets.