Measuring Kitchen Cabinets for Refacing: A Comprehensive Guide
Embarking on a kitchen cabinet refacing project? Accurate measurements are the foundation of a successful outcome. This guide walks you through the process of measuring your kitchen cabinets like a pro, ensuring a perfect fit and a stunning result.
Understanding Your Cabinet Layout
Before you start measuring, it's crucial to understand your kitchen's layout and cabinet configuration. Sketch a rough diagram of your kitchen, noting the location and type of each cabinet. This will serve as a reference during the measurement process and when ordering new cabinet doors and hardware.
Gather Your Tools
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Paper or notepad
- Level
- Cabinet measurement guide (if provided by your supplier)
Measuring Cabinet Widths
Cabinet widths typically fall into standard sizes: 9", 12", 15", 18", 24", and 36". However, custom or older cabinets may have different dimensions. Here's how to measure:
- Measure from the outer edge of the frame to the outer edge of the adjacent frame.
- Record the measurement in inches or centimeters.
- Repeat for every cabinet, noting any variations in width.
Measuring Cabinet Heights
Cabinet heights usually correspond to standard ceiling heights: 30", 36", 42", or 90" (floor-to-ceiling). However, they can vary, especially in older homes. Measure as follows:
- Measure from the top of the countertop (or the floor, if there's no countertop) to the bottom of the cabinet crown or the ceiling, whichever is lower.
- Record the measurement in inches or centimeters.
- Repeat for every cabinet, noting any variations in height.
Measuring Cabinet Depths
Standard cabinet depths are 12", 15", 18", or 24". Measure the depth of your cabinets as follows:
- Measure from the front of the cabinet frame to the wall or the back of the cabinet, depending on whether your cabinets are flush with the wall or have a reveal.
- Record the measurement in inches or centimeters.
- Repeat for every cabinet, noting any variations in depth.
Special Considerations
Some cabinets may require special attention:
- Blind Corner Cabinets: Measure the width and depth, but note that the door may need to be a special order.
- Diagonal Cabinets: Measure the width and height, but note that the door may need to be a special order.
- Glass-Front Cabinets: Measure the width and height, but note that the door may need to be a special order.
Organizing Your Measurements
Create a table to organize your measurements, noting the cabinet location, width, height, and depth. This will serve as a reference when ordering new doors and hardware.
| Cabinet Location | Width (inches/cm) | Height (inches/cm) | Depth (inches/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper left cabinet | 18 | 30 | 12 |
| Upper middle cabinet | 12 | 30 | 12 |
| ... (continue for all cabinets) |
Double-check your measurements and ensure your diagram and table are complete and accurate. With these steps, you're ready to order new cabinet doors and hardware for your refacing project. Happy measuring!
