Installing new kitchen cabinets offered by novocuisine is one of the most exciting parts of a kitchen remodel—it’s the moment when the room truly starts to take shape. But if you’ve never gone through a cabinet installation before, you may be wondering what to expect. Understanding the process can help reduce stress and ensure a smooth experience from start to finish.
Here’s a step-by-step look at what typically happens during a kitchen cabinet installation.
- Pre-Installation Prep
Before the first cabinet goes in, your space needs to be ready. This usually includes:
- Demolition: Existing cabinets and countertops are removed, along with any backsplash or trim. This step can be messy, so cover nearby furniture and floors if the space is open.
- Wall & Floor Checks: The walls and floors are inspected for level and plumb (straight). Uneven surfaces will be addressed now to prevent future alignment issues.
- Plumbing & Electrical Work: Any necessary plumbing or electrical updates should be completed before installation begins.
Pro Tip: Make sure the new cabinets have arrived and have been inspected for damage or missing parts before demolition starts.
- Layout & Measurement Verification
Even if precise plans were drawn up months ago, a good installer will double-check everything on-site.
- Wall Measurements: Walls are re-measured to confirm cabinet placement.
- Stud Locations Marked: This helps with securely anchoring base and wall cabinets.
- Leveling Considered: Installers will determine the highest point of the floor and start cabinet installation from there to ensure everything lines up properly.
This step is crucial for preventing surprises later.
- Upper Cabinets Installed First
Wall cabinets are typically installed before base cabinets to keep the workspace open and reduce the risk of damaging lower cabinets.
- Secured to Studs: Upper cabinets are screwed directly into wall studs for strength.
- Leveled & Shimmed: Cabinets are leveled side to side and front to back, with shims added if necessary.
- Filler Strips & Spacers: These are added between cabinets and walls for a seamless look.
- Base Cabinets Installed Next
Once uppers are secure, base cabinets are placed.
- Start from the Highest Point: This ensures all cabinets align properly along the top.
- Leveling is Key: Each cabinet is individually leveled and secured to the wall and adjacent cabinets.
- Sink Base Positioned Carefully: Since the sink is a focal point and involves plumbing, extra care is taken here.
- Final Adjustments & Trim Work
After the main cabinets are installed, the installer will handle all the finishing touches.
- Crown Molding & Toe Kicks: These complete the look and hide gaps at the top and bottom.
- Hardware Installed: Handles, knobs, and pulls are installed based on your preferences.
- Door & Drawer Alignment: All doors and drawers are adjusted to ensure smooth operation and even spacing.
- Clean-Up & Inspection
A reputable installer will clean the workspace and walk through the finished job with you.
- Inspection: You’ll check that everything is aligned, level, and undamaged.
- Final Touch-Ups: Minor caulking or touch-up paint may be applied where needed.
- Next Steps: If countertops, backsplash, or appliances still need to be installed, you’ll get a timeline for those.
What You Can Do to Help the Process
- Clear the Space: Remove furniture, appliances, and valuables from the kitchen area.
- Communicate Clearly: Be available for questions and clarify any preferences up front.
- Be Flexible: Minor delays or adjustments may happen—trust the installer to address them professionally.
A kitchen cabinet installation typically takes 1–3 days depending on the size and complexity of your kitchen. Knowing what to expect at each stage helps you prepare and feel confident in the process. With a skilled installer and careful planning, your new cabinets will be installed smoothly—and you’ll be one step closer to enjoying your dream kitchen.