Leveling Lower Kitchen Cabinets

Essential Aspects of Leveling Lower Kitchen Cabinets

Leveling lower kitchen cabinets is a crucial step in ensuring the proper functioning and aesthetic appeal of your kitchen. It involves adjusting the cabinets to ensure they are level from front to back and side to side. This seemingly simple task requires precision and attention to detail to achieve optimal results.

To master the art of leveling lower kitchen cabinets, there are several essential aspects to consider:

Checking Levelness

Before adjusting the cabinets, it is essential to check their levelness. Use a level to determine whether they are level from front to back and side to side. Place the level on the cabinet top and note any deviations from the horizontal plane.

Adjusting the Feet

Most lower kitchen cabinets are equipped with adjustable feet that allow for leveling. Locate the feet, which are typically screw-type or plastic glide-type, at the base of the cabinet. To raise the cabinet, turn the feet clockwise; to lower it, turn them counterclockwise.

Shimming

In some cases, simply adjusting the feet may not be sufficient to level the cabinet. Shimming, which involves inserting thin pieces of material (e.g., wood or plastic shims) under the cabinet, can be necessary to achieve the desired level.

Securing the Cabinets

Once the cabinets are leveled, it is crucial to secure them in place to prevent them from becoming misaligned. Use screws or other appropriate fasteners to attach the cabinets to the floor and to each other.

Checking Alignment

After leveling and securing the cabinets, check their alignment with adjacent cabinets and appliances. Ensure the doors and drawers operate smoothly and that there are no gaps or uneven surfaces.

Tools and Materials

Before beginning, gather the necessary tools and materials: a level, a screwdriver or wrench (depending on the type of feet), shims, and screws or fasteners.

Mastering the essential aspects of leveling lower kitchen cabinets will ensure a professional-looking and functional kitchen. By following these steps and paying attention to detail, you can achieve a kitchen that exudes both style and practicality.