Can you measure kitchen cabinets yourself? Yes, absolutely! Measuring kitchen cabinets accurately is a crucial first step whether you’re planning a full renovation, replacing a few worn-out units, or simply want to get a better sense of your kitchen’s layout. It’s not as daunting as it might seem. With a few simple tools and a methodical approach, you can gather all the necessary cabinet dimensions to make informed decisions about your kitchen design and purchases. This guide will walk you through how to measure kitchen cabinets like a pro, ensuring your new cabinets fit perfectly.
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Why Accurate Cabinet Measurements Matter
Getting your cabinet dimensions right from the start is paramount. Incorrect measurements can lead to a cascade of problems:
* Wasted Money: Ordering cabinets that don’t fit means you’ll likely have to return them, incurring restocking fees, or worse, you’ll have to buy new ones altogether.
* Project Delays: When cabinets don’t fit, it halts your renovation timeline. You’ll spend time re-measuring, re-ordering, and waiting for replacements.
* Functional Issues: Even a slight miscalculation can affect how well your kitchen functions. Doors might not open fully, drawers might hit obstacles, or there might be awkward gaps where you expected seamless integration.
* Aesthetic Problems: Ill-fitting cabinets can look unprofessional and detract from the overall beauty of your kitchen.
This kitchen cabinet sizing guide aims to equip you with the knowledge to avoid these pitfalls.
Essential Tools for Measuring
Before you start, gather these simple tools:
- Tape Measure: A good quality, retractable metal tape measure is essential. Make sure it has clear markings in both inches and centimeters.
- Pencil and Paper (or a Digital Device): For recording your measurements. Graph paper can be helpful for sketching your kitchen layout.
- Step Stool or Ladder: For reaching higher cabinets safely.
- Helper (Optional but Recommended): An extra pair of hands can make measuring, especially for tall cabinets or awkward spaces, much easier and safer.
Measuring Existing Kitchen Cabinets
If you’re replacing existing cabinets, you’ll need to measure them precisely. This helps you understand your current cabinet sizes and how new ones might integrate or replace them.
H3: Measuring Base Cabinets
Base cabinets sit on the floor and support countertops. Here’s how to measure them:
H4: Width
- Measure the outside edge of one side cabinet to the outside edge of the adjacent cabinet.
- If measuring a standalone base cabinet: Measure from the outermost edge on one side to the outermost edge on the other side.
- Account for any trim or decorative molding that extends beyond the main cabinet box. Usually, you’ll measure to the end of the cabinet box itself, not the molding, unless the molding is integral to the cabinet’s overall footprint.
H4: Height
- Measure from the floor to the top of the cabinet box.
- Do not include the countertop in this measurement. You’re measuring the cabinet structure itself.
- If your cabinets have a toe kick (the recessed area at the bottom), measure from the floor to the underside of the cabinet box. The toe kick depth is usually around 3-4 inches.
H4: Depth
- Measure from the front of the cabinet to the back.
- Typically, you’ll measure to the back of the cabinet box, not including the countertop overhang or any decorative back panel.
- Standard cabinet depth for base cabinets is usually 24 inches. This is a crucial cabinet measurement to note.
H4: Measuring Wall Cabinets
Wall cabinets are mounted on the wall, above the base cabinets.
H4: Width
- Measure from the outermost edge of one cabinet to the outermost edge of the adjacent cabinet.
- If measuring a single wall cabinet: Measure from the outer side panel on one end to the outer side panel on the other.
- Note any decorative side panels or fillers that are part of the cabinet unit.
H4: Height
- Measure from the top edge of the cabinet to the bottom edge.
- If there’s a decorative valance or trim at the bottom, measure to the bottom of the main cabinet box, unless the trim is a fixed, integral part of the cabinet’s visible dimension.
H4: Depth
- Measure from the front of the cabinet to the back of the cabinet box.
- Again, do not include the countertop if it extends beyond the cabinet.
- Standard wall cabinet depth is typically 12 inches. This is another key kitchen cabinet depth to remember.
H4: Measuring for Specialty Cabinets
- Corner Cabinets: These are often the trickiest. Measure the length of the wall run on each side of the corner, from the corner outwards to where the cabinet ends. Note if it’s a diagonal or L-shaped corner.
- Appliance Garages or Over-the-Fridge Cabinets: Measure their specific dimensions in the same way you would wall cabinets, paying close attention to the space they occupy.
Measuring the Kitchen Space for New Cabinets
If you’re starting from scratch or planning a complete layout change, you need to measure the physical space where the cabinets will go. This is where custom cabinet measurements often come into play.
H3: Measuring Wall Lengths
- Measure the total length of each wall where cabinets will be installed.
- Measure from corner to corner.
- Mark the locations of windows, doors, and any permanent fixtures like radiators, vents, or outlets. Note their height from the floor and their width. This is vital for ensuring your cabinet layout works with the room’s existing features.
H3: Measuring Ceiling Height
- Measure the height from the floor to the ceiling.
- Do this in multiple locations as ceilings can sometimes be uneven.
- Note the height of any bulkheads or soffits above the cabinets, as this will dictate the maximum kitchen cabinet height you can install.
H3: Measuring Obstructions and Key Features
- Windows: Measure the width and height of each window. Note the distance from the floor to the windowsill and the distance from the windowsill to the ceiling.
- Doors: Measure the width and height of each doorway. Note the distance from the floor to the bottom of the door frame and the clearance needed for the door to swing open.
- Appliances: Measure the space required for existing or planned appliances (refrigerator, dishwasher, oven, microwave). Include space for ventilation and door swing.
- Plumbing and Electrical: While you might not measure exact pipe locations, note where sinks, dishwashers, and electrical outlets are. This will influence cabinet placement.
- Corners: Measure the inside and outside dimensions of all corners.
H3: Planning the Layout and Taking Cabinet Measurements
Once you have your space measurements, you can start to plan your cabinet layout. This is where you’ll determine the required cabinet sizes.
H4: Wall Cabinet Layout
- Draw a plan: Sketch out your kitchen walls on graph paper.
- Mark openings: Draw in windows and doors.
- Plan cabinet placement: Decide where you want your wall cabinets. You’ll need to decide on the kitchen cabinet height (e.g., standard 30″, 36″, or 42″) and the desired kitchen cabinet depth (typically 12″).
- Consider filler strips: You may need filler strips (thin pieces of wood) in corners or next to walls to allow doors and drawers to open freely. These are usually 1.5 to 3 inches wide. Account for these in your total wall length measurements. For example, if you have a 120-inch wall and want to install 30-inch wide cabinets, you’ll need to see how many fit and if any fillers are needed.
H4: Base Cabinet Layout
- Plan your workflow: Think about the kitchen work triangle (sink, stove, refrigerator).
- Determine cabinet widths: Decide on the standard cabinet sizes (e.g., 12″, 15″, 18″, 21″, 24″, 30″, 36″) or custom sizes needed to fit your space.
- Measure for appliances: Ensure you have space allocated for your dishwasher, range, and refrigerator. Standard base cabinet depth is 24 inches, and standard kitchen cabinet height is 34.5 inches (before countertop).
H4: Island or Peninsula Measurements
- Measure the available floor space for the island or peninsula.
- Account for walkways: Ensure there is ample space around the island for comfortable movement (at least 36 inches, ideally 42-48 inches).
- Plan cabinet configurations for the island, considering door swings and drawer openings.
Understanding Standard Cabinet Sizes
Many homeowners opt for cabinets based on standard cabinet sizes to manage costs and lead times. Knowing these common dimensions is helpful.
H3: Standard Base Cabinet Sizes
| Widths (inches) | Depths (inches) | Heights (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24 | 24 | 34.5 | Common widths, 24″ depth is standard. |
| 27, 30, 33, 36, 42, 48 | 24 | 34.5 | Wider options for more storage. |
| 36, 48 | 30, 36 | 34.5 | Deeper options, often for specific needs. |
H3: Standard Wall Cabinet Sizes
| Widths (inches) | Depths (inches) | Heights (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24 | 12 | 12, 15, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42 | Common widths, 12″ depth is typical. |
| 27, 30, 33, 36 | 12 | 12, 15, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42 | Wider options available. |
| 18, 24, 30, 36 | 15, 18, 24 | 30, 36, 42 | Deeper wall cabinets, often for specific uses. |
Note: These are typical dimensions. Always verify with the manufacturer.
H3: Standard Corner Cabinet Sizes
Corner cabinets are sized based on the lengths of the two walls they meet. For example, a 36″ x 36″ corner base cabinet means it will cover 36 inches along each adjacent wall.
Precision in Measurement: Tips for Accuracy
Getting your cabinet measurements perfect requires attention to detail.
H4: Measure Twice, Cut Once (or Order Once!)
This old adage is especially true for cabinet projects. After your initial measurements, go back and measure everything again.
H4: Account for Obstructions
- Electrical Outlets and Switches: Note their exact location. You might need to order cabinets with specific cutouts or plan to relocate them.
- Plumbing: The exact location of water lines and drains is critical for sink base cabinets.
- HVAC Vents: Floor vents will need to be accommodated by your base cabinet layout. Wall vents might affect wall cabinet placement.
H4: Consider Door and Drawer Clearances
- Door Swings: Ensure that cabinet doors (especially in corners or adjacent to walls) have enough clearance to open fully. You may need to leave a small gap (filler strip) between cabinets or between a cabinet and a wall.
- Drawer Slides: Similar to doors, drawers need space to operate smoothly.
H4: Don’t Forget Filler Strips
Filler strips are thin pieces of wood used to:
* Fill gaps between cabinets and walls.
* Allow cabinet doors and drawers to open without hitting anything.
* Provide a finished look in tight spaces.
Measure the gaps where you anticipate needing fillers and note their required width.
H4: Inspect Existing Cabinets for Unique Features
If you’re measuring existing cabinets for replacement, look for:
* Specialized hardware: Does it have unusual hinges or drawer slides?
* Integrated lighting or features: Are there built-in elements that might affect dimensions?
* Cabinet construction: Are they framed or frameless? This affects the interior and exterior dimensions.
When to Call a Professional
While this guide empowers you to measure your own kitchen cabinets, there are times when professional help is advisable:
- Complex Kitchen Layouts: Unusual wall angles, multiple levels, or intricate architectural features can make accurate measurement challenging.
- Major Renovations: If you’re changing the entire kitchen footprint, dealing with structural elements, or moving plumbing and electrical, a professional designer or contractor can ensure everything aligns.
- Uncertainty: If you feel overwhelmed or unsure about any part of the measurement process, it’s better to invest in professional consultation to avoid costly mistakes.
Fathoming Cabinet Dimensions: A Summary
Accurate cabinet dimensions are the bedrock of a successful kitchen project. By systematically measuring your space and existing cabinets, and by familiarizing yourself with standard cabinet sizes, you can confidently plan your kitchen renovation.
Here’s a quick recap of key cabinet measurements to focus on:
- Kitchen Cabinet Width: Measure from the outside edge of one cabinet/wall to the outside edge of the next.
- Kitchen Cabinet Height: Measure from the floor to the top of the cabinet box (base) or top to bottom (wall).
- Kitchen Cabinet Depth: Measure the depth of the cabinet box itself, excluding countertops or decorative elements.
Remember to meticulously record all your cabinet measurements, including details about windows, doors, and utilities. This detailed information is invaluable when selecting cabinet sizes or discussing custom cabinet measurements with your supplier. This kitchen cabinet sizing guide should provide a clear path to getting your measurements right the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the standard height of a base cabinet?
A1: The standard height for a base cabinet is 34.5 inches. This measurement is typically taken before the countertop is installed.
Q2: What is the standard depth of a wall cabinet?
A2: The standard depth for a wall cabinet is 12 inches. This allows for ample storage while maintaining adequate clearance above the countertop.
Q3: Do I need to measure the countertop when measuring for cabinets?
A3: No, you should measure the cabinet box itself. Countertops are usually installed afterward and have their own overhangs which are not part of the cabinet’s structural dimensions.
Q4: How much space should I leave around my cabinets?
A4: It’s recommended to leave a small gap, often filled with a “filler strip” (typically 1.5 to 3 inches), between cabinets and walls or at corners. This allows doors and drawers to open freely without obstruction. For walkways around islands or peninsulas, aim for at least 36 inches of clear space.
Q5: What if my wall measurements aren’t perfectly straight?
A5: Walls are rarely perfectly straight. When measuring, take multiple readings along the length of the wall and use the shortest measurement if you’re ordering cabinets that will fit snugly against the wall. For custom cabinet measurements, a professional can account for these imperfections more effectively.
Q6: Do I need to measure the inside of my existing cabinets?
A6: While not always essential for ordering new cabinets, measuring the interior can be helpful for understanding your current storage capacity and planning how your items will fit into new cabinet configurations. However, focus on the exterior cabinet dimensions for ordering.
Q7: How do I measure for a corner cabinet?
A7: For a corner base cabinet, measure the length of each wall run that the cabinet will occupy, starting from the corner. For example, a cabinet might be described as 36″ x 36″, meaning it extends 36 inches along one wall from the corner and 36 inches along the other.
Q8: What are “frameless” versus “framed” cabinets?
A8: Frameless cabinets (often called European-style) have doors and drawers that attach directly to the cabinet box, offering more interior space. Framed cabinets have a face frame attached to the front of the box, to which the doors and drawers are attached. This distinction can affect exact opening sizes, so be aware of it when measuring and ordering.