How To Hang Upper Kitchen Cabinets: A Step-By-Step Guide

When I renovated my kitchen, one of the most challenging tasks was hanging the upper cabinets. I struggled with getting them level and securely attached to the wall. After some trial and error, I finally figured out the best way to hang upper kitchen cabinets. In this article, I will share my experience and provide a step-by-step guide on how to hang upper kitchen cabinets.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Measure and Mark

The first step in hanging upper kitchen cabinets is to measure and mark where the cabinets will be installed. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall and mark their locations. Measure the height from the floor to the bottom of the wall cabinets and mark this height on the wall.

Step 2: Install Support Cleats

Install support cleats on the wall at the height you marked in step one. These cleats will support the weight of the cabinets during installation. Use a level to ensure the cleats are level and securely attach them to the wall studs using screws.

Step 3: Install Cabinet Mounting Rails

Attach the cabinet mounting rails to the top of the cabinets. These rails will be used to attach the cabinets to the support cleats on the wall. Ensure the mounting rails are level and securely attached to the cabinets.

Step 4: Hang the Cabinets

With the help of an assistant, lift the cabinets onto the support cleats on the wall. Use screws to attach the mounting rails on the cabinets to the support cleats on the wall. Ensure the cabinets are level and securely attached.

Step 5: Install Cabinet Doors and Hardware

Install the cabinet doors and hardware according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Adjust the doors to ensure they are level and close properly.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall before installing support cleats.
Install support cleats level and securely to prevent cabinets from falling.
Use a level to ensure cabinets are level during installation.
Attach mounting rails securely to cabinets.
Use an assistant to help lift and install the cabinets.
Adjust cabinet doors to ensure they are level and close properly.
Install cabinet hardware according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Consider using a cabinet lift to make installation easier.
Paint or stain cabinets before installation to save time.
Plan the cabinet layout before installation to ensure proper spacing and functionality.

Pros and Cons

Pros of hanging upper kitchen cabinets include increased storage space, improved organization, and a more polished look for your kitchen. Cons include the difficulty of installation and the cost of materials and labor. However, the benefits of hanging upper kitchen cabinets outweigh the cons for most homeowners.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Hanging upper kitchen cabinets was a challenging task for me, but with the help of a friend and some research, I was able to successfully install them. My suggestion is to plan the cabinet layout carefully before installation and to use a cabinet lift if possible. This will make the installation process much easier and less stressful.