DIY Network

Kitchen Reno: New Cabinet Installation A kitchen gets a Sweat Equity boost with new cabinets and tile backsplash. Check out more smart choices to get the biggest bang for your buck.. From "Sweat Equity" episode DSEQ-306

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Project Overview: Dumpy to Dramatic Kitchen

Andy and Sally Kim have put plenty of sweat equity into their 1990-built home already — including painting, adding a new deck, remodeling a bathroom and finishing a lower level office. They've been planning to renovate their kitchen for two years, so that's next on their list. Completely gutting and renovating a kitchen on just $15,000 is a huge task, but the Kims feel they're up to it. Bring in the Sweat Equity team.

Cabinet Assembly and Installation

A great way to save money in a renovation project like this one is to buy ready-to-assemble cabinetry. The Kims do all the assembly themselves and spend a small portion of their budget to hire a professional to assist them with the installation to assure everything is done correctly.

Following is a brief recap of the basic steps as seen in this project, as well as a list of tools and materials used.

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Materials and tools:

screw gun
finish nailer
level
tape measure
screw gun
safety glasses

Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection and follow proper safety precautions when working with power tools or pneumatic tools.

Demolition Tips

• Take measurements for the replacement cabinets before demolition begins.

• You may want to save money by measuring for cabinets yourself, but accuracy is critical since a measurement error could cost you a great deal in the long run. If you're not completely confident in your measuring and calculating skills, hire a pro.

	Figure A
	Figure B

Cabinet Installation

• Tip: You can save thousands of dollars by purchasing ready-to-assemble cabinets instead of pre-assembled.

• Remove light fixtures, countertops and existing cabinets.

• Assemble cabinets per manufacturer's instructions. Use a screw gun to assemble the frame; use a finish nailer to attach the back pieces.

• Attach cabinet support to wall with screws. (figure A).

• Check support for level, then hang upper cabinets (figure B).

• Check cabinets to ensure they are level.

• Attach doors.

Tip: When determining the placement for a kitchen island like the one in this kitchen, be sure to leave ample room on all sides, including room for opening of cabinet doors as well as refrigerator and other appliance doors.

RESOURCES :

cabinets — Ikea
Website: www.ikea.com