How to Install Wall-Mounted Bathroom Cabinets

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How to Install Wall-Mounted Bathroom Cabinets

When creating your custom bathroom, there are so many choices in style, price, and layout. One of the most common choices after fixture like the toilet and tub is to add a wall mount bathroom cabinet. A medicine cabinet is a great wall mount bathroom cabinet choice due to the classic look and versatility of the item. Store everything from your toothbrush to cold medicine out of site and off the counter, while adding a convenient mirror system to help you get ready every morning. Installing these flush mount cabinets is actually quite simple, if you just follow these easy steps.

Tools

A proper installation for your wall mount bathroom cabinet requires a few tools. Gather these items before you get started:

  • Stud finder
  • Utility knife
  • Keyhole saw
  • Flashlight
  • Level
  • Hacksaw blade
  • Handsaw
  • Rasp
  • Power drill (either cordless or plug-in)

Additional Materials

In addition to these items, you may also want:

  • Pencil
  • Tape Measure
  • Safety Goggles
  • Wood Screws
  • Toggle Bolts
  • Wood adhesive
  • 6-8 foot 2×4
  • Caulk

Step 1: Mark the Spot

Hold the cabinet against the wall where it will be hung and mark the spot. It’s handy to have a helper for this part. Mark the bottom and top of the cabinet or bathroom vanity. Measure straight up from the sink to center it. Set your level on top of the cabinet to make sure your measurements are plumb.

Step 2: Cut Inspection Holes

Use the stud finder to locate any studs within your drawn cabinet outline. Cut 4 inch inspection holes around the studs to look behind the drywall with the keyhole saw. Make sure the cuts are shallow and look for any additional wires. Contact an electric or plumbing professional if any of these utilities are in the way and blocking your install.

*An alternate method at this stage would be to mark the studs and screw the cabinet in without cutting the wall. This method is used for screw in cabinets, instead of flush wall mounting.

Step 3: Cut Remaining Drywall

Once inspection is complete, cut the remaining drywall out around your drawn cabinet outline. Use the keyhole saw and remove the remaining drywall pieces, being careful not to mar or scratch the edges that will remain visible in your bathroom.

Step 4: Clear Any Loose Debris

Clear the opening of any loose debris. Use the hacksaw blade to cut and remove protruding drywall screws. Wrap the blade with tape to avoid cutting yourself and create a handle.

Step 5: Remove any Jagged Edges

Cut the stud that is blocking any flush placement of your cabinet. Use the rasp and utility knife to remove any jagged edges. Dry fit the cabinet and keep adjusting until the cabinet fits perfectly into the opening, including opening doors and moving parts.

Step 6: Create Blocking in the Cut Opening

Use 2x4s to create blocking in the cut opening. Hold the 2×4 up to the bottom of the opening to measure, and use a handsaw to cut to length. Repeat this process three more times for the top and sides. Use an adhesive to on both ends to attach the wood, and then secure in place with screw driven through the drywall and into the blocking.

Step 7: Fit the Cabinet into the Opening

Put the wall mount bathroom cabinet into the opening, and fit it flush against the 2×4 blocking. Drive drywall screws through the side of the cabinet and into the opening, attaching it to the blocking. If there are any jagged or unsightly edges at this point, you can use caulk to create a seamless finish.

Step 8: Reattach the Doors and Hardware

At this point your cabinet base should be installed, and it’s time to reattach the doors and hardware. Reassemble your wall mount bathroom cabinet and attach the shelves. Now it’s time to stock up all your toiletry items.

Now that you understand how the wall mount bathroom cabinet process works, it’s time to choose the right medicine cabinet for your home. With a large selection in choices and size, there are options to find everyone the right fit. A great option for a family or larger bath is the Confiant 50″ mirror cabinet, which feature moveable mirrors and three different sections for storage. Smaller models are also available, especially great for a guest bath or a renovated older house. If you have questions about cabinet installation or bathroom vanities, you can always talk to your local expert for both advice and sales assistance.

Sources:

http://www.lowes.com/projects/bed-and-bath/install-medicine-cabinet/project#noop,

http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/how-to/step/0,,20048437_20072092,00.html