Figure 5-12. - Kitchen cabinet details.

4. Take the cabinet down off the ledger board; then cut the back edges with either a handsaw or a plane to the scribed line. Use a plane if you have to take off less than an 1/8 of an inch. Use a handsaw, rather than the saber or circular saw, because these saws cut on the upstroke and can splinter out the face side. The handsaw cuts on the downstroke which will not splinter the face.

5. Place the cabinet back into position; then fasten the cabinet into place with wood screws. Screws should be of sufficient length to hold the cabinet securely.

Adjacent cabinets are installed in the same manner. The back edges of these cabinets are scribed so their face frames are flush with the cabinet previously installed. Adjacent cabinets are fastened to each other by means of screws or bolts through the ends or through the stiles of the face frame.

Base Units

Before base cabinets are installed, draw a level line 16 inches plus the thickness of the countertop below the line previously drawn for the location of the wall units. This action will be the location of the top of the base units without the counter top. However, check your plans and specifications for the proper height on the counter top because it may vary.

1. First, locate and mark the location of all wall studs where the cabinets are to be hung. Find and mark the highest point in the floor. This action will ensure the base cabinet is level on uneven floor surfaces. (Shims should be used to maintain the cabinet at its designated leveled height.)

2. Start the installation of a base cabinet with a corner or end unit. After all base cabinets are in position, fasten the cabinets together. To get maximum holding power from screws, place one hole close to the top and one close to the bottom.

3. Starting at the highest point in the floor, level the leading edges of the cabinets. After leveling all the leading edges, fasten them to the wall at the studs to obtain maximum holding power.

Here are some helpful hints for the general construction of cabinets:

Cabinet parts are fastened together with screws or nails. They are set below the surface, and the holes are filled with putty. Glue is used at all joints. Clamps should be used to produce better fitting glued joints.

A better quality cabinet is rabbeted where the top, bottom, back, and side pieces come together. However, butt joints are also used. If panels are less than 3/4-inch thick, a reinforcing block 5-15