How To Install Kitchen Cabinets: The Ultimate DIY Guide

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Hey fellow DIYers! Hope all of your projects are going well. I placed timestamps below to help you jump to sections you want to see first. Thanks for watching! Planning Out A Kitchen 00:22 How To Read Cabinet Plans 01:55 Finding Highest Point On Floor 04:17 How To Install Base Cabinets 05:21 How To Build A Kitchen Island 19:05 How To Build A Refrigerator Enclosure 24:58 How To Install Wall Cabinets 27:06

[@user-gy3vq1cm5h]

1:31 😅

[@AmIamIknowIam]

This is so far the best kitchen installation video I've seen on KZbin. I'm a pro installer

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I used to install cabinets professional cabinet company. That is where I gained my skills. Good luck to you!

[@AmIamIknowIam]

@@TheExcellentLaborer I can tell you got experience. The method and process is perfect for DIYs

[@chris_favreau]

I'm happy that you commented on this... It's tough to know who's legit and who's full of sh*t in these videos. Thank you

[@nicardosmith8053]

Best cabinet installation video on KZbin!! Tomorrow I’ll do my install like a pro!Thank you!

[@nannem9716]

Finally, a video that actually shows how to do the install, step by step, and does not just gloss over the fine details! I truly appreciate your showing the actual process step by step, with your thorough explanation, instead of just a quick cut to an "after" photo. You are obviously very intelligent and are a great teacher! I am a kitchen & bath designer. I always consult on the installations when needed, but I am no carpenter. I can't tell you how many times clients or their contractors ask me how to install something. I can tell them what I know about properly installing a kitchen, and how to put together what I've designed, but that's where my involvement ends. From now on I'll be directing my DIY clients to your fabulous video. Thank you for the time you spent in making this video!!! It's the best one I've ever seen on the subject.

[@johnny96888]

This guy has the best instructional videos hands down, explains everything in detail and makes it simple.

[@sheilabloom7602]

Josh, you are extremely articulate and able to communicate with great clarity and intricate speech

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks Sheila! Be sure to stay tuned for more to come.

[@barton187]

This was the best instructional video I have ever seen on this topic. We just fired the company (no names mentioned) who was supposed to install our kitchen cabinets. I was fairly confident that I could do it myself, but after watching this I feel even better. I bet I will go back and watch it several more times before I'm done. Thanks so much for putting this out.

[@Orangedarkness]

Can we get an update on how the experience was, honestly?

[@steve_713_]

I've saved so much money from watching videos like this one. Very clear and detailed info to get the job done right.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you Steve! I’m glad I can help. Thanks for watching!

[@Nymets8305]

2 things when framing in kitchens always block for your cabinets 2x6 at 34.5” along all stud bays that get cabinets and then same for your uppers, then no matter where your cabinets land your hitting solid backing. 2nd thing is we always install uppers first, this way your not leaning over the lowers risking damaging them. Also we install cleat at the pre determined height all around to set uppers on to keep them perfectly level and at the right height

[@jasminewatson9132]

Genuinely asking. Wouldn't it push your cabinets out having a block behind them? Or maybe I just didn't understand what you meant.

[@osomoisty]

this is exactly what my father taught me many years ago and I've never had any issues still to this day.

[@osomoisty]

But I must say his little block trick would definitely save me some energy as I install these alone.

[@jdub7101]

THANK YOU! I was wondering if I can just add in a crap ton of blocking so I hit studs. Apparently in Texas, the studs are 24” on center.

[@jdub7101]

@@jasminewatson9132no. You’re adding 2x4’s or whatever size between your studs on the exterior wall. I’m gonna assume that’s before installing your drywall so that your cabinets DONT stick out. Does that make sense?

[@WiliamBennettwildarbennett]

Having been an assistant to many cabinet installs Have Got To Give You A 👍 on the idea of the upper cabinet bench that's a lot easier than running a ledger board. As my mentor Robert would say YOUVE GOT A 10

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks for the 👍William! I have never used the ledger board method because the box is so easy. I appreciate the 10! Take care!

[@Nellopi22]

@theexcellentlaborer THANK YOU 🙏 An actual detailed video on the how and not just a sped up voice over. Really genuinely appreciate your video.

[@corydavenport8327]

I love the box idea. I have seen cabinet jacks, but they dont work well without the counter top. The box will also enable perfect leveling more so than just a board on the wall!

[@boomcity4942]

Excellent video! Great to watch a skilled tradesman that not only knows his trade, but can communicate well. Thank you!

[@Sandra-Armstrong]

Thank you for this!!! ☺️ I'm remodeling my kitchen, and I'm almost done with the demo. My next step are subfloors and cabinets, so I've been studying cabinet installation here in KZbin University to get ready. The step by step instructions you offered are tremendously helpful for a methodical person like me, and I've saved it for future reference. I think I'll go ahead and subscribe too. If all your videos are this detailed, I wanna stay tuned! 😏

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Fantastic! It is very rewarding to DIY. Sounds like you got a project ahead of you. I’m glad you enjoyed the video. Take care!

[@KishGami]

From experience, I find it easier to install the wall cabinets first. Take 54" from your finished/leveled floor height. Preferably use a laser line. It's easier to reach and get to the upper wall without the base cabinets on the way. Excellent video. Thank you!

[@diviengii]

And that is the way it should be. Flamers are the most horrible + sheetrock and finishers don't help. Them walls feel could feel like a storm in the ocean.

[@Chernabog123]

My 2024 project is cabinet / countertop replacement. I am doing this myself. This video is helpful 👍

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

So glad I could help!

[@coopersingleton]

Best cabinet installation video I've seen. Very instructive and easy to understand

[@diegoloera435]

You explain things so easy and straightforward. Awesome vid bro.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I appreciate that!

[@DougWalton]

Phenomenal video. Love all specifics, straight-to-the-point, and practical tips and tricks.

[@kitchencabinets-xj4rk]

We are a cabinet manufacturer and consider this a very professional installation

[@diviengii]

This is good for someone who has never done this before. As a person who is trying to go into bussness of this i say there is way more.

[@TheBigBlackElephant]

Sir, i dont think you understand how great this video is. Thank you so very much sir.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I appreciate that Anthony. I’m just glad I can help people that need it with KZbin. Stay tuned for more!

[@614Lyfe]

This video is gold

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I try to keep my videos helpful and to the point. Thanks!

[@terrypacker1192]

So happy to have found your Video of Cabinet installation ! I learned more in the first five minutes than other videos . My Kitchen Remodel is much harder than most , recycling nicer Kitchen Cabinet's to an Old Kitchen ! I realize it isn't going to fit perfectly , an will have to build cabinets to fill in to be complete ! Thank You for a wonderful Professional Installation Video !!?

[@lorivezina7913]

I really, Really, REALLY appreciate this video. We have a total kitchen renovation, planned, and contractors where we live are incredibly busy so most of it falls on us. You are going to save us so much time and help me have a perfectly beautiful kitchen. Bonus: I will know more about installation than my husband 😂!!

[@jasonsims4134]

Your video is awesome! I especially love your tape measure is as experienced and seasoned as you are.

[@sheilabloom7602]

Josh, you are excellent at going over the small details in this video. Just in time for my install.

[@barbrayeager9499]

He is a real carpenter and very good at what he does he wants everything done correct!

[@aaudain1]

There you go again wow I love your videos I like the way how you explain stuff thanks for sharing

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you Anthony. I try to explain things in my videos as if the viewer was standing right in front of me. I appreciate your comment!

[@lrparrish227]

I am about to do this very project and this was an incredible and helpful video. Thanks for all the details.

[@bobbydrex5268]

This video is perfect, I am installing cabinets my wife and I ordered from Lowes and have the same kind of plans. Awesome instructional video

[@victorhernandez3786]

Well done!!! This is exactly what I was looking for!! Best video by far.

[@chadfahlenkamp1134]

Watched your hardwood floor video... now this? Awesome! Well done you earned my sub.

[@lifeimprovedofficial]

THANK YOU! I've watched a bunch of videos, and this is by far the best one! Been wondering what to do with shims that are sticking out from the side of the back part of the cabinet!

[@randypaul5427]

This was a fantastic video Josh. I saved it in my KZbin save files.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Save and watch later when you need it. Thanks for that Randy!

[@davidharrison3074]

I absolutely love installing cabinets. Are code, cabinet screws need to be the molded washer head for the wall and base cabinets attaching to the walls. The screws for the front of the styles I found a company in Pennsylvania that I've used for years that actually only need a pilot hole for the faceframe of the fronts because they have self drilling and counter sinking barbs on them so no need to use a counter sinking bit. Quick grip clamps come in use for some cabinets but I found a company called Pony, that makes clamps that go over the front styles and have screw clamp capability from the side and the front which makes the face frames right on. With one cabinet installed and using two of these, you can walk away if you forgot a drill as long as it's not a 36" wide cabinet or so. Exactly right on making sure your corner cabinet is at the right height if the floor is off at all. Nothing like getting so far, then realizing the floor rises or falls, more in remodeling. Barrel lazy susans are a great cabinet to learn with when you first install one. They can be a challenge of course. Most companies have gotten away from them in our region but still available. Look forward to everything installed. Great job Josh. 👍🏻🙋🏼

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

What I like about installing cabinets is that it looks like a lot was done and a little bit of time because they take up so much space which is satisfying. That’s interesting about the screws you mentioned in Pennsylvania. Here they like to see at least washers. I will have to check out that company called pony. I have never heard of them. They sound like a good product. Sounds like you do a little bit of everything like me. Thanks for stopping by again David!

[@joewenzel5142]

There's so much involved. This has solidified my view for me anyway I'd hire the store I bought them from to install as well and suck up the cost.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Hey Joe! Yes it’s not the easiest thing to do. After you figure out one kitchen, the ones there after go fairly smooth from my experience. Thanks for stopping by!

[@joewenzel5142]

@@TheExcellentLaborer I guess it's like anything. I ordered a kitchen island I had to put together and following the Chinese instructions was challerging and took me over 4 hours but if I had to put together another one I'd easily cut that time in half.

[@MediumRareSteve]

My man, this was awesome. Thank you

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks Steve!

[@IRISHERETIC]

Pro cabinet installer here, of course I disagree with a lot 😝 But I love that shim trick for flatness!

[@gordonfuentes808]

Bruh dis wuz 1 video dat wiz ez 2 follow along step by step🤙🏽 Very informative n simpo Mahaloz foda video gr8 job n weldone Alooooooooha 😎🏝️👍🏽

[@MikeQsda]

Broo this video is gold. Thanks champ

[@rhswind]

Thank you. Very helpful and clear!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You are very welcome! I’m glad you liked it. Good luck with your project!

[@cubmixit]

Excellent video.. Ive never installed cabinets before, but now i can! Thanks

[@jianminhuang587]

great teacher😀

[@bobfesterman3137]

Excellent video. TY. Got an install coming up and this helped tremendously.

[@tomsoccociojr.5776]

Great video, thank you. One of the best videos I have seen on the topic.

[@brandonyoung7760]

I've installed base cabinets first before... once! I have always install wall cabinets first since then

[@juanrivera7863]

You really know what you talking about !!👍🏾

[@lovethatagave]

Really great video and instruction - thanks so much.

[@kangningye5943]

Very good and useful so far the best.

[@jasonfrere]

Great video! Uppers first for me though!

[@megdahlin1118]

Excellent video. Thank you!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I appreciate that Meg! I hope you got all the information you need for your project. Take care!

[@TuanNguyen-yl3ms]

Thanks . You make so clear and easy to understand

[@ttthai9837]

Great video. Very clear instructions

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you! I hope the video helped you. Take care!

[@michaelgould5167]

ALL your videos are outstanding! Thank you. May I suggest a laser level? It's such a great addition to my box.

[@Jennyhenrytube]

THANK YOU! you explained all the things in such an understandable way

[@chanchanthavong8474]

Awesome video with great tips! Thanks!!!

[@PropertyEvolutions]

Amazing you make it look easy brother

[@hoanglan2630]

great job , I like it , clear, easy understanding, good

[@superkittybtc]

Thank you very much!!

[@sn2477]

Very good video. Especially the tip you gave for the shims being reversed. I had one question though. At 17:30, you installed the cabinets to each other. However you did not install the cabinets to the wall. So i just wanted to make sure that the correct steps are levelling the cabinets, connecting them to each other and then connecting it to the studs for base cabinets? I understand wall cabinets you may screw cabinets to the studs first

[@marthasotelo7602]

Wow Great Job!!! Thank you!

[@thesurgepartybandnj5426]

Thanks for a great video and sharing your expertise.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

No problem! I’m glad you liked it. Stay tuned for more videos to come!

[@budnspud]

Amazing video. Thanks for posting it.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you Donna. I hope it helps you out with your project!

[@JTPprz]

Josh - your video is by far the best cabinet install DIY video I've found! You rock - "just so you know" :) Sub'd.

[@koolopscsm3695]

I like think I'm handy... This is a fantastic instructional

[@steveferrar9630]

Great video - Love detail and explanations. You always do such a good thorough job on your videos.

[@user-pf8sm5hr4k]

Great video. It would be nice if cabinet installers box out the air vents, there is so much air loss with cabinets if there are gaps or holes under the sink. Boxing those to the toe-kick will help control air flow better.

[@Sharky56_56]

Hi Josh. Great video! Thank you for putting this together. I have a question about connecting base cabinets to the wall. Did you connect the cabinet between the corner and sink to the back wall? You didn't show this or mention that you did. Should all base cabinets be fastened to the wall?

[@chawnski]

I love this video! And these cabinets are awesome. Where are they from?

[@mohammedelboukhari908]

Thank you for the video Would you please share with me the screw info you used to attached the cabinet tougher ? -Thank you

[@JS-zb1vv]

Good install! I use a 360 laser level to install cabinets . I put the lowers in place and find the highest spot then work from that one . Making sure to split the laser on the front and back of cabinets. They end up perfect.

[@nsomuch2]

great tip with the nail

[@assignmeanameplease]

Great video! Very helpful

[@intheranches]

Great video! Quick question, is it okay to secure the island with a cleat 2 * 4 behind the toe kicks instead of on the sides of the cabinets

[@isaacjohnson7184]

Shims are the best.

[@randalreigel4089]

First issue. As a designer since 1994, I worked for HomeBase,Lowes &Home Depot, I would never give out that floor plan with all dimensions on it unless they we're purchasing. Secondly, I would never install base cabinets first. Wall cabinets come first and talls.. Additionally, I would use a laser level. You do nice work, though.... Just not in order, I would do it.

[@hoanglan2630]

great job, I really like it .

[@andrewf.909]

Thanks for the link. subscribed!

[@JGerm]

Awesome video !

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you! I’m glad you liked it.

[@josaniriv]

Thanks!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you so much for your support! Good luck with your project!

[@JudeNoneya]

Excellent video.

[@daren9721]

Thanks for the tips👍🏼

[@GinnyRaeHaskin]

Thank you for your advice!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You got it Ginger!

[@Bonkowskiart]

what a champ. thx for the video

[@tomacquilano1304]

Can you pin the island cabinets to the floor by screwing through the bottom of the cabinets? We are installing a kitchen tomorrow and there are 7 different cabinets in the island. BTW, your tutorial videos are excellent and are my go to when I'm looking for a little project guidance.

[@MrPeter924]

Great video great view work Woodworking

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you Peter. I love working with wood and cabinetry!

[@ChimobiHD]

Thanks for this video!!!

[@tomprovan50]

Hi great video I know you know this, one an use a lazer level and a helping hand pole to set the cabinets to adjust them to height . I do like the easy clamps you use to pull them together use them myself thanks

[@cmw1riternboro]

Great informative video!

[@stephaniejoo694]

Amazing video. Thank you.

[@rrodriguez4378]

Question if the shims are too thin, can they break up with weight?

[@jdub7101]

Thanks for your video. I’m beginning my kitchen remodel project and this helped tremendously. Do you not need ladder box for these? I saw an ad for cabinet levelers that replace ladder steps and shims. Wasn’t sure what the ladder box is for if shims is all you needed to level cabinets with. Since you’re an expert, what do you recommend? Flooring then cabinets, or cabinets then flooring. I want to make sure someone can pull a dishwasher, stove or fridge so I’m not sure why people do cabinets first. Am I missing something here?

[@user-up8lk5pd8o]

Thanks my man

[@dsummers1165]

It is great that you are so meticulous in your work. I believe if you used the EZ-Level Cabinet Leveling System you would be amazed at the speed and precision, even for first time installers. They cost more than shims, but saves enormous time and frustration and gives perfect results, not just "close". And they will never move, like the shims will over time which protects the investment (cabinets and countertop).

[@kcinox]

Great video, thank for sharing my friend

[@Trifiveguy]

Great video thanks for this !!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks! I love making videos for KZbin. Take care!

[@Trifiveguy]

@@TheExcellentLaborer I’ve build my house around your videos I’m in Kentucky so I’m sure codes are different but it’s come up nice I was actually at menards today looking at the kitchens and when I got home I see you had this video up lol awesome !!

[@job916]

Great video. Did you lay plywood over the concrete and under the cabinets to meet with your flooring ?

[@toolate6971]

Awesome!

[@LarryOohLaLa]

Great job brother ❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉😊😊😊

[@TheJudgeJuryExecutioner]

Where did you get the cabinets from and how much did they cost ?