Preparation

Getting Ready for New Cabinets

Step 1. Measure and Sketch the Kitchen Space

Read all of the following steps before starting this project.

1. Make a simple but accurate sketch of your kitchen.  Make the drawing large enough to include your measurements, locations of stove, refrigerator, and sink, plus notes, and special marks.   (See the illustration at right.)

2. Start by measuring the total length of each wall, from corner to corner, using an accurate steel tape.  Measure every wall at 3 levels: floor level, at counter top lever, and up along the ceiling.  For each wall you will use the smallest number of the 3, but note all three. 

3. Record all your measurements in inches, not in combinations of feet and inches.  Start at one corner of the room and measure each wall, from corner to corner, all the way around the room.  Include all walls, such as odd build outs or recesses.

4. Now measure the distances along each wall between all openings and other obstacles, such as air vents and appliances.  Measuring all openings (doors and windows) from the outside edges of the trim.  Include height for appliances, as well as width.

5. Every light switch and electric outlet must also be included in your sketch and measurements, each being measured from it's center line to the nearest wall.  Use symbols to show the locations of these as well as any gas line or special power outlet for range, and water line. 

6. Mark the central point of the plumbing for your sink, and show the distance to the nearest wall. 

Begin with a simple sketch of the kitchen area.

 

7. Double check all measurements.  One quick check is to add all the distances between obstacles/openings along a wall and compare the sum to the number you show for the total length of the wall itself. (The sum of the smaller distances must equal the actual length of the wall.)

8. From several points in the room (near the walls) measure from the floor to the ceiling or soffit/bulkhead.  Write these numbers down.

9. Now measure from the floor to the bottom trim of all windows.  Measure and record the height of each window (including trim).  Measure from top of windows to the ceiling or soffit/bulkhead.  Measure the total height of doors, including trim, and show the direction of swing (inside or outside).

10. If your sketch gets too crowded with information, make a separate drawing for showing positions and measurements of plumbing and electrical outlets, light switches and air vents.