How do I replace my kitchen cabinets?

Question

We've got older cabinets and I now it's process to get new ones, but I'm interested in the easiest and most economical way. Of course, that are nice as well!!

Answer 1

Make a list of the cabinets you have. If they are built in just measure the length of each run of wall and base cabinets. Note the space between cabinets where refrig,dishwasher,stove are.

Cabinets come in various widths so you can easily get the numbers to come close to your dimensions.

Layout your kitchen on 1/4" square graph paper. If your appliances are all going to stay in the same place. Start your cabinets from the appliances and go in the opposite direction. Try to line up the wall cabinets above the base cabinets. In other words if you have a 30" base cabinet below, try to put a 30" wide wall cabinet above it so they line up.

Obvioulsy if you have a window over the kitchen sink you can't put a wall cabinet there. Wall cabinets usually install with the top of the wall cabinets at 7' off the floor. If you have an existing bulkhead it should be close to this height. If you don't have a bulkhead you can offset the top of the wall cabinets to break up the monotony of the same line.

Usually you want 18" between the bottom of the wall cabinets and the surface of the finished counter top.

You can get a free print out by going to your local lumberyard or home center. Take the exact dimensions *wall to wall of all walls in the kitchen. Measure to each side of any windows/doors and write this down. Take some photos which would help also. There are many different price points for cabinets, and there are some economical cabinets that still will have hardwood fronts and doors/drawers.

Don't forget you will need new countertops also.

Answer 2

If your looking to find inexpensive cabinets try ikea. I know some people detest the place but look at their cabinet selection, its awesome and a lot cheaper than traditional ones.