Raising cabinets off the floor is a great way to make your kitchen look more spacious and improve its ergonomics. Raised cabinets can make accessing items stored in upper cupboards easier, allowing you to maintain an organized space while avoiding back strain from reaching or bending down too far. In addition, raised cabinets give the room a lighter, airier look.
Raising kitchen cabinets off the floor provides several advantages. It adds to the room’s aesthetic appeal, making it look taller and more spacious. Additionally, raising cabinets off the floor makes them easier to clean and maintain due to better air circulation. This can also help prevent moisture buildup that causes mold and mildew growth. In this blog post, You will learn how to raise cabinets off the floor in detail.
Step-by-Step Processes for How to Raise Cabinets Off the Floor
Step 1: Inspect the Existing Cabinets
Before attempting to raise the cabinets off the floor, inspect them for any signs of damage. If you see any cracks or other signs of something wrong, it is best to consult a professional before raising the cabinets.
Step 2: Measure and Mark
Use a measuring tape to measure the distance between the existing cabinet base and the finished floor. Mark this measurement on the wall where you plan to install the cabinets. Use a leveler to ensure that the height of the cabinets will be even across all sides. If you don’t have one, buy one at your local hardware store.
Step 3: Securely Attach Cabinets To the Wall
Using screws or nails, securely attach the cabinets to the wall at the marked height. Use brackets to secure the cabinets to the floor. Ensure that the screws or nails used to secure the bracket are long enough to penetrate the cabinet and the flooring material below it.
Step 4: Attach Cabinets To Brackets
Use screws or nails to attach the cabinets to the brackets. Ensure that the screws or nails used are long enough to penetrate through the cabinet and flooring material below it. Attach levelers to the bottom of each cabinet and adjust them until they are even with the wall. This will keep the cabinets from rocking when they are in use.
Step 5: Install Cabinet Toes
Securely attach cabinet toes to each corner of the cabinet base. Ensure the toes are long enough to reach the floor and securely fasten them into place. With all the pieces in place, test out the cabinets to ensure they are secure. Ensure all screws and nails used to hold them in place are tight and the levelers have been properly adjusted.
Once everything is securely fastened, you can enjoy your new raised cabinets! They should be sturdy enough to stand up to everyday use without problems. If you ever have any issues, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for assistance.
Safety Tips for How to Raise Cabinets Off the Floor
- Ensure the cabinet is secure on the wall before raising it off the floor. Check for loose screws or brackets and ensure all mounting hardware is properly attached and fastened.
- Measure twice, cut once! Use a tape measure to determine the height you want to raise your cabinet off the floor and mark where you need to cut.
- Utilize protective gear before beginning the project; wear safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself from sawdust or other debris.
- Always use a vise, clamp, or secure holder when cutting wood with sharp tools like saws and chisels, as these can slip if improperly secured.
- If power tools are being utilized, ensure they are unplugged when not in use.
- Never force components into place, as this can cause damage to the cabinetry or injury to yourself. Ensure all pieces fit together properly before attaching them permanently.
- Keep your workspace clean and organized, and ensure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. This will help you work quickly, efficiently, and safely.
Following these safety tips, you can raise cabinets off the floor with minimal risk of injury or damage to the cabinetry. With proper preparation and care, you’ll enjoy the improved look of your freshly-raised cabinets in no time.
What is the Best Way to Maintain Your Cabinets After They Are Raised?
Once you have successfully raised your cabinets off the floor, it is important to ensure they remain in good condition for years to come. Here are some maintenance tips:
- Clean Regularly: Cabinets can easily collect dust and dirt, so use a damp cloth or vacuum cleaner attachment to remove buildup regularly. This will help ensure that your cabinets look good and function properly for a long time.
- Protect From Moisture: Humidity can cause warping or other damage, so keep an eye on the humidity levels in your kitchen and use dehumidifiers if needed. Consider putting sealant or wax on the wood surfaces of your cabinets to protect them from moisture as well.
- Check For Damage: Look for any signs of wear and tear on the cabinets, such as chipped paint, wood, or loose screws/nails. Repair any damage right away to prevent further issues in the future.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your cabinets stay looking and functioning at their best for years.
How Long Will It Take to Raise the Cabinets Off the Floor?
Raising a cabinet off the floor is relatively easy but requires some time and patience. How long it takes to raise a cabinet off the floor depends on what type of cabinet you are working with (wooden, laminate, metal) and how large the cabinet is.
A standard kitchen wall cabinet can take 30 minutes to an hour or more to raise off the floor, while a larger cabinet may take longer. Remember that you should allow extra time if you are raising many cabinets at once.
Before beginning any project, assembling all the necessary tools and materials is important. This includes screws, nails, brackets, or other hardware needed to secure the cabinet to the wall.
You will also need a ladder, measuring tape, level, and a drill or screwdriver for installing any hardware. Once you have all of your materials in place, you can begin by measuring the area where the cabinet will be installed and marking it off with painter’s tape.
How Much Should You Expect to Pay for Materials and Labor if You Hire a Professional to Raise the Cabinets?
If you hire a professional to raise the cabinets off the floor, you can expect to pay for materials and labor. It may be difficult to estimate an exact cost, depending on how long it takes them to complete the job and the type of materials used. Generally speaking, however, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$500 for the materials and labor for a single cabinet, depending on the size and complexity of the job.
The cost may be higher if multiple cabinets are being raised or if they are especially large or heavy. Additionally, you may have to pay extra if you need additional services, such as plumbing work or minor repairs to the flooring underneath the cabinet, before it can be lifted off.
Contacting a professional and getting an estimate for the job before starting is best. This will help you plan ahead and ensure you can afford to do this work. By hiring a professional, you can ensure that the job is done correctly and safely.
What Type of Storage Solutions Can Be Used to Maximize the Storage Space Once the Cabinets Are Raised?
Once you’ve raised your cabinets off the floor, you can use the space between them and the floor to create extra storage. Shelving units are a great solution; these can be placed in any gaps that arise from raising the cabinets. Additionally, if there’s enough room for it, a seating area or table can be added. This can be used for extra seating or as a work surface.
Drawer units are also an option, and they offer the advantage of providing a compact storage solution without taking up too much space. Drawers can be installed underneath the raised cabinets to use all available space.
This is especially useful in smaller kitchens where floor space is at a premium. Finally, a kitchen island can be an excellent solution for maximizing storage if you have the budget and space. This can provide additional counter space and add drawers or cabinets to maximize available storage further.
Conclusion
In conclusion, raising your cabinets off the floor is a great way to give your kitchen or bathroom a more spacious and modern look. By adding decorative feet or repurposing furniture legs, you can transform the look of your space in no time.
If you want to avoid taking on this project yourself, plenty of professionals specialize in these projects. With the help of these experts, you can achieve the perfect look and feel for your cabinets. This article has been beneficial for learning how to raise cabinets off the floor. Make Sure the preventive measures are followed chronologically.
