Kitchen Cabinet Installation

Overview

About kitchen cabinet installation

Cabinets are usually the largest single line item in a kitchen remodel, and the way they are installed determines how they look and last for years. Doors that line up, drawers that glide and countertops that sit flat all start with a careful install.

Walls and floors are rarely perfectly flat, so installers scribe, shim and level as they go. Good installation also plans for filler panels, crown, light rail and the way cabinets meet appliances.

What's included

Layout verification against the plan
Leveling, shimming and scribing
Wall and base cabinet installation
Filler, crown molding and trim
Door and drawer adjustment
Hardware installation

Options

Choices to consider

Stock cabinets

Ready-made in standard sizes; the most economical choice, with limited sizes and finishes.

Semi-custom

More sizes, finishes and modifications for a moderate price increase. A popular middle ground.

Custom

Built to your exact dimensions and specifications, ideal for unusual spaces and specific design goals.

What affects the price

Cost drivers

Cabinet line and construction
Number of cabinets and specialty units
Height, crown and trim details
Condition of walls and floors

Timeline

Installation itself takes days, but cabinet lead times can be several weeks, so order early.

Before you start

Check every box against the order before installation starts.
Schedule countertop templating as soon as cabinets are set.
Choose hardware early so drilling matches the design.

Design gallery

Kitchen styles for inspiration

Warm modern kitchen with a stone range hood, walnut cabinets, lit open shelves and dome pendant lights over an island — Modern
Warm modern with stone hood

A sculpted stone range hood, walnut cabinetry, lit open shelving and brass fixtures.

White kitchen with a marble waterfall island, brass pendant lights and a farmhouse sink under a large window — Transitional
Marble waterfall island

A full-height marble waterfall island under brass pendants, with a farmhouse sink and glass-front uppers.

Bright white kitchen with shaker cabinets, brass lantern pendant lights, marble backsplash and a large island with upholstered stools — Traditional
Classic white kitchen

Shaker cabinetry, brass lantern pendants and a marble backsplash behind a large island.

Featured designs are shown for style reference.

Questions