| Home repair in the kitchen can be cheaper than you | | | | out of your work area. Don't forget to turn off the |
| think if you install your own kitchen cabinets and | | | | oven's separate breaker, too. |
| furniture. If you possess some home repair skills, you | | | | Before removing your sink, turn off the water and |
| can easily save thousands in costs. Each cabinet | | | | check this by turning the faucets on and off. Don't |
| comes with a guide to assist you through every step | | | | forget the water connection for the garbage |
| of the job. Just read the guide carefully to have a | | | | disposal, if you have one. |
| clear understanding of what is involved. | | | | Using the same layout will make your job easier. Any |
| When you cabinetry finally arrives, check it for any | | | | changes in the layout will require that you move all |
| damage. Be sure all the necessary pieces are there | | | | the utilities, including water, electric and gas lines. |
| and that you have the necessary tools to do the | | | | However, this is best handled by a professional, as |
| installation, including screws and fasteners. Each one | | | | accidents can be deadly and cost a lot more. |
| should be suited to your cabinetry, the right size, and | | | | The next step is to remove your current cabinets, |
| the are you will be attaching them to | | | | but if you want to use your existing flooring, cover |
| The tools you need for installation include: carpenter's | | | | that first with thick cardboard which has been taped |
| level and square; tape measure; drill and bits; hammer; | | | | down. Otherwise, rip up the floor that you don't |
| chalk line; straight edge; masking tape; power screw | | | | want before the cabinets. |
| driver; jigsaw; utility knife; step ladder; mitre saw; | | | | Don't forget to empty those cabinets before |
| shims; bit sander; circuit tester; and furniture clamps. | | | | removing them. Start with the top ones and then the |
| Also, you must consider safety issues, as cabinetry is | | | | bottom ones. Get rid of all moulding. If the flooring is |
| heavy and bulky. You will not only need assistance, | | | | to go, do it now. Once you have done this, fix any |
| but also work clothing, solid safety shoes or boots | | | | damaged walls before doing your new installation. |
| and safety glasses. Keeping your area clutter and | | | | Finally follow your cabinetry instruction guide carefully |
| debris free is essential to avoid accidents. | | | | a second time to be clear on what you have to do. |
| Before you begin, turn off all utilities and appliances, | | | | Address any questions to the manufacturer's |
| including your kitchen's electrical power by checking | | | | customer service before starting. |
| the circuit tester. Then move and unplug all appliances | | | | |