Measurement & Installation Guide
Everything you need to know to measure your space and install your new cabinets like a pro.
How to Measure Your Kitchen
Measure Each Wall
Measure the total length of each wall where cabinets will go. Measure at countertop height (36" from the floor). Record in inches for accuracy.
- • Measure wall-to-wall, not just the existing cabinet span
- • Note the location of windows, doors, and electrical outlets
Mark Appliance Locations
Identify where your stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, and sink will be. Note the width of each appliance — this is space cabinets cannot occupy.
- • Standard stove/range width: 30"
- • Standard refrigerator width: 36"
- • Standard dishwasher width: 24"
Measure Ceiling Height
Measure from the floor to the ceiling. Standard kitchen ceilings are 8' (96"), but this determines what height wall cabinets to order and if you need crown molding or filler.
- • 30" wall cabinets + 18" backsplash = 84" (standard 8' ceiling)
- • 36" or 42" wall cabinets for taller ceilings
Check for Obstructions
Note pipes, vents, soffits, and any structural elements that may affect cabinet placement. Measure their exact location and how far they protrude.
- • Plumbing rough-in affects sink base placement
- • Vent hoods may need specific cabinet widths above the range
Plan Your Layout
Use your measurements to sketch a basic layout. Start with the sink, stove, and refrigerator (the work triangle), then fill in base and wall cabinets.
- • Use our Cabinet Estimator to auto-calculate quantities
- • Corner cabinets need 36" minimum on each wall
Standard Cabinet Sizes
Base Cabinets (34½" height, 24" depth)
| Width | Common Use |
|---|---|
| 12" | Single door, narrow spaces |
| 15" | Single door base |
| 18" | Single door, tray divider option |
| 21" | Single door base |
| 24" | Most common single door base |
| 27" | Single door with drawer |
| 30" | Double door base |
| 33" | Double door, sink base option |
| 36" | Most popular sink base size |
| 42" | Wide double door base |
Wall Cabinets (12" depth)
| Width × Height | Common Use |
|---|---|
| 12" × 30" | Narrow wall cabinet |
| 15" × 30" | Standard single door |
| 18" × 30" | Single door wall |
| 24" × 30" | Common single door wall |
| 30" × 30" | Double door standard |
| 33" × 30" | Wide double door wall |
| 36" × 30" | Most popular wall size |
| 30" × 36" | Tall double door wall |
| 36" × 42" | Extra tall wall cabinet |
Installation Tips
Start with Wall Cabinets
Install upper wall cabinets first when the base cabinets are not in the way. Use a temporary ledger board at 54" height as a support rail.
Level is Everything
Use a 4' level for every cabinet. Shim as needed — floors and walls are rarely perfectly level or plumb.
Screw into Studs
Always secure cabinets into wall studs with 2½" or 3" cabinet screws. Use a stud finder to mark locations beforehand.
Don't Skip Fillers
Use filler strips between cabinets and walls to ensure doors and drawers can open freely. They also cover uneven walls.
RTA Assembly Tip
For RTA cabinets, fully assemble each box on a flat surface before installation. Use wood glue on cam lock joints for extra strength.
Measure Twice
Double-check all measurements before cutting or drilling. It's much easier to re-measure than to fix a mistake.