Installing Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) Cabinets: A Step-by-Step Guide
Installing ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets can be a smooth and rewarding process with the right preparation and tools. These cabinets offer an affordable and stylish solution for homeowners looking to renovate without compromising quality. So, how do you go about installing kitchen cabinets properly?
Essential Tools for Cabinet Installation
Tape Measure and Pencil
Accuracy is everything. Use a tape measure to take exact dimensions of your space and mark cabinet placement on the wall with a pencil. The pencil allows for easy adjustments without damaging surfaces, ensuring precise positioning every time.
Clamps
Clamps are crucial for keeping cabinet parts aligned and stable while fastening. They hold components tightly in place, allowing for clean and secure installation.
Ledger Board
A ledger board acts as a temporary support for upper cabinets. Mounted along your marked level line, it bears the weight of the cabinets during installation, allowing for safe and accurate placement.
Stud Finder
This tool helps you locate wall studs hidden behind drywall. Anchoring cabinets into studs is essential for stability and long-term durability.
Level
A level ensures your cabinets are installed straight and true—horizontally and vertically. Proper leveling is vital for both function and appearance.
Shims
Shims are thin, wedge-shaped pieces used to adjust cabinet height and fill small gaps. They are especially useful when working with uneven floors or imperfect walls.
Drill and Drill Bits
A reliable drill and the correct bits are essential for creating pilot holes and driving screws. They make installation faster, easier, and more efficient.
Nail Gun
Use a nail gun to attach finishing trim, such as scribe molding, toe kicks, shoe molding, or crown molding, for a clean and polished look.
Hardware Jig
A hardware jig ensures perfect, uniform alignment when installing cabinet knobs and pulls, saving time and avoiding mistakes.
Caulk Gun (Color-Matched)
Fill any small gaps or nail holes with color-matched caulk for a seamless finish that blends perfectly with your cabinets.
These tools, combined with proper planning and careful execution, make installing RTA cabinets a project well within reach—even for beginners. By following step-by-step guidance and taking your time, you can confidently transform your kitchen with beautiful, professional-looking results.
How to Install Cabinets:
Let’s examine each step so you are 100% equipped with the knowledge needed to install cabinets. After you review this list, you will discover how to install wall cabinets, base cabinets, and drawers.
1. Take Kitchen Measurements
2. Protect Installation Area
Be thorough in safeguarding floors and surrounding surfaces from scratches or damage during installation. Start by carefully laying down a tarp or protective plastic sheeting. Next, ensure all surfaces are completely free of dust and debris by cleaning them meticulously before beginning any work.
3. Utilize a Ledger Board for Easier Installation
Install a ledger board—a horizontal wooden strip secured to the wall at the desired height of your kitchen cabinets. This support tool simplifies the installation process by providing a stable, temporary base to hold the cabinets in place. Always make sure the ledger board is firmly anchored to the wall to prevent any movement that could lead to accidents or damage. Additionally, use shims as needed to ensure the cabinets are level throughout the installation.
4. Check Cabinets
When your cabinetry arrives, take the time to carefully inspect all materials. This ensures everything is in good condition and that your order is complete. If you have any questions or concerns about the process, our team is ready to assist you.
Pro Tip: Organize Your Hardware – Sort all hardware into labeled Ziploc bags or Tupperware containers. This simple step keeps everything organized and easily accessible throughout the cabinet installation.
5. Install Wall Cabinets
Start by drawing a straight horizontal line on the wall to mark where the bottom of the wall cabinets will be positioned—typically 54 inches from the floor. This measurement accounts for an 18-inch backsplash above standard 36-inch base cabinets. Use a stud finder to locate and mark the wall studs, then temporarily attach a ledger board along the marked line to support the weight of the cabinets during installation.
Begin with the corner wall cabinet. Carefully position it, ensuring it is level and plumb, then secure it to the wall studs using screws. Continue installing the remaining cabinets one by one, fastening each to the adjacent cabinet and checking for level alignment as you go. Make any necessary adjustments to maintain a consistent and accurate fit.
Pro Tip: Label Everything – If you need to pause your installation, label each cabinet part and piece of hardware with its intended location. This will make it much easier to resume the project without confusion.
6. Install Base Cabinets
When installing base cabinets, begin in a corner and use shims as needed to ensure the cabinets are perfectly level and even. Secure each cabinet to the wall studs by driving screws through the back panel into the studs. As you move to adjacent cabinets, use clamps to hold them tightly together, then drill and screw through the side panels to join them securely.
Once all base cabinets are installed and aligned, remove any temporary supports. Complete the installation by adding finishing touches such as trim, toe kicks, and hardware to give your kitchen a polished, professional look.
7. Add Doors and Finishing Touches
After all the cabinets are securely installed, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Attach the cabinet doors and gently set any finishing nails in place using a hammer for a clean, seamless look. Once everything is in position, step back and enjoy the transformation of your new kitchen cabinets.
Pro Tip: Install hardware last – Wait until all doors and drawers are in place before attaching handles or knobs to ensure perfect alignment and placement.
Why Choose Wholesale Cabinets Warehouse?
Wholesale Cabinets Warehouse is your trusted source for premium Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) kitchen cabinets that combine quality, convenience, and value. Our cabinets are thoughtfully designed for easy assembly, empowering you to take charge of your kitchen renovation without the need for professional installation.
We know that time is critical during any remodeling project. That’s why we ensure fast delivery—your high-quality cabinets arrive within just 2–4 business days, so you can begin your transformation without delays. By cutting out the middlemen, we offer you exceptional savings, delivering top-tier cabinets at a fraction of the typical retail cost.
Choosing Wholesale Cabinets Warehouse means you’re making a smart investment in both quality and efficiency. Transform your kitchen with ease and confidence, and discover the difference our expertly crafted RTA cabinets can make.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Install RTA Cabinets Myself?
Absolutely! You can install RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) cabinets on your own—provided you have the right tools, a bit of skill, and the patience to work through the process. Cabinet installation involves accurate measuring, careful leveling, and secure mounting to ensure everything is stable and properly aligned.
If you’re confident with DIY projects and have some experience with home improvement tasks, you’ll find RTA cabinet installation both manageable and rewarding.
Is Installing Ready-to-Assemble Cabinets Easy?
Installing RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) cabinets is certainly achievable, but it does require careful planning and attention to detail. The process involves precise measurements, leveling each cabinet accurately, and securely fastening them to the walls.
Some common challenges you may encounter include:
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Lifting and positioning heavy cabinet units.
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Aligning doors and drawers properly for a smooth, professional finish.
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Navigating around plumbing and electrical fixtures already in place.
While a dedicated DIY enthusiast can definitely take on the task, be prepared to invest the necessary time and effort to ensure a flawless installation.
Where Do I Start When Installing My Own Kitchen Cabinets?
The key to a successful cabinet installation is thorough preparation. Start by clearing the kitchen area of any furniture, appliances, or debris to create a clean, open workspace. Next, mark precise measurements on the walls to indicate where each cabinet will be placed. Use a stud finder to locate and mark wall studs, which are essential for securing the cabinets properly.
Once your workspace is ready and you’ve gathered all the necessary tools, you’re set to begin the installation process with confidence.
What Is the Average Cost of Kitchen Cabinet Installation?
The cost of installing kitchen cabinets can vary widely based on several key factors, including the size of your kitchen, the style and material of the cabinets, and your geographic location. On average, a standard kitchen cabinet installation typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000.
If you opt for custom cabinets, expect a much higher investment—costs can range from $12,000 to $25,000 or more, depending on design complexity and material quality.
Keep in mind, these estimates do not include labor costs, which can further increase the overall price if you hire professional installers.
Why Is Cabinet Installation So Expensive?
Cabinet installation can be costly due to several factors. Professional labor, quality materials, and custom design requests all contribute to the final price. Skilled installers ensure precise measurements, secure mounting, and a flawless finish—services that come at a premium.
However, if you’re comfortable taking on the project yourself, DIY installation can dramatically reduce costs, allowing you to save on labor while still achieving a high-quality result.