FAQs: How Do I Measure for New Kitchen Cabinets?

• Remove any obstacles that you could trip over.
• Ensure good lighting for the right measurements.

First, you need to clear away any obstacles that you could trip over. Clear away clutter and close any open cabinet doors. If you’re working with an oddly shaped room, make sure you have a clear line of sight. Second, make sure your lighting is good enough to record the right measurements. Mistakes in measuring are detrimental to your project.

• Sketch your kitchen layout on graph paper.

If you’re building a new space, sketch the layout you want. If you’re remodeling an existing space, then sketch out the basic shape of the room. Use the layout planner that you downloaded earlier. We’re not looking for exact measurements at this point.

• Measure the length of each wall from corner to corner.
• Measure the wall height from floor to ceiling.

If you’re building a new space, then measure where the walls will be. Make sure to compensate for the space that drywall and insulation will occupy. If you’re remodeling an oddly shaped room, then divide the area and measure each space individually.

Take the measurements for the larger space first, and then measure the smaller areas. Mark these measurements on your layout planner. You should have the basic shape of your space drawn already.

Measure your wall height. If your ceiling is slanted, then measure the wall height where your cabinets are to be installed. Mark these measurements on the layout planner.

• Measure the width and height of each window and door.
• Measure the distance from the floor to the bottom of each window.
• Measure the distance on either side of the door or window in relation to where it’s installed.

Understanding where your doors and windows sit will help designers create a storage solution that works for you. Mark the location of each window and door. Record the measurements on the layout planner to include the distance on either side.

• Mark everything on the layout planner that can’t be moved.

Mark details of your space that can’t be moved, such as wiring and outlets. Don’t forget to indicate where your pipes are. Use the layout planner that you downloaded earlier.

This will help ensure that your cabinets fit and look flawless.

• Download the Kitchen Information form.
• Tell us about your appliances.

Fill out the Kitchen Information form that you downloaded earlier. Provide as much information as you can. It will help your designer understand how to create your cabinet design.

• Re-measure everything to ensure accuracy.
• Have someone else verify your measurements if possible.

It’s important to provide your designer with accurate measurements. It’s better to catch any mistakes early, rather than uncovering them during installation. Accurate numbers ensure that your cabinets fit and function properly.

Before you wrap up, don’t forget to take clear, well-lit photos of your kitchen from multiple angles. These photos will serve as a visual reference for both you and your designer. They can help clarify the layout, highlight unique features, and ensure that nothing is overlooked during the design process.

Having these photos on hand can also help you make decisions that complement your space.

• Always measure in inches.
• Take photos of your kitchen for reference when shopping.

Accurate measurements are the foundation of a successful kitchen cabinet installation. By following these steps—from sketching your floor plan to double-checking dimensions—you’ll ensure a smooth design and installation process. Taking the time to measure carefully now will save you from costly mistakes and delays later. With your detailed notes, photos, and completed planner in hand, you’re ready to collaborate with your designer and bring your dream kitchen to life. Happy remodeling!