Can I measure my own kitchen cabinets? Yes, you absolutely can measure your own kitchen cabinets. Many homeowners successfully handle this task themselves with the right tools and a good cabinet dimensions guide. Accurate measurement is the key to a smooth renovation or custom order process. Getting this right saves time and money later.
Why Precise Cabinet Measurement Matters
Getting the right fit for your new kitchen cabinets is very important. If measurements are wrong, cabinets might not fit at all. Or, they might look odd next to each other. This guide will help you use accurate cabinet measurement techniques for success. We will cover determining kitchen cabinet sizes step-by-step.
Gathering Your Tools for Measuring
Before you start, gather the right gear. Having the correct tools makes DIY kitchen cabinet measuring much easier and more precise.
Essential Measuring Equipment
- Tape Measure: A sturdy, 25-foot or longer tape measure is best. Look for one with a strong lock.
- Pencil and Paper: Keep a clipboard handy. Graph paper is great for drawing rough layouts.
- Level: A 2-foot or 4-foot level helps check if walls and floors are straight.
- Straight Edge/Yardstick: Useful for marking straight lines across surfaces.
- Laser Distance Measurer (Optional but Recommended): While not strictly required, professional cabinet measurement tools like a laser measurer speed up the process and boost accuracy.
- Painter’s Tape: Use this to mark where cabinets will sit.
Pre-Measuring Preparation: Setting the Stage
Good preparation prevents major measurement mistakes. Clear the area first.
Inspecting the Space
Before measuring, check the room itself. Kitchens are rarely perfectly square.
- Check for Squareness: Use a framing square or the 3-4-5 method to see if corners are 90 degrees.
- Check for Plumb: Use a long level to see if walls are straight up and down (plumb).
- Check for Level: Use a long level on the floor to see if it is flat (level).
If your walls, floor, or ceiling are significantly out of square or sloped, note this down. Your cabinet supplier may need this info, especially for custom work.
Creating a Rough Sketch
Draw a simple floor plan first. This map helps keep track of all your cabinetry measurement standards later.
- Label where windows and doors are.
- Mark where sinks, dishwashers, or other appliances will sit.
How to Measure Lower (Base) Cabinets
Base cabinets support your countertops. They are usually the same height. We focus on three main measurements: Width, Depth, and Height.
Measuring Cabinet Width
Cabinet width is the most crucial number for layout.
Measuring Existing Cabinets (If Applicable)
If you are replacing old cabinets, measure them carefully.
- Measure the Cabinet Box: Measure the cabinet from the left side panel to the right side panel. Do not include any trim or molding yet. This gives you the how to measure cabinet boxes measurement.
- Note the Opening: If the cabinet is currently installed, measure the clear space between adjacent cabinets or walls.
Measuring the Space for New Cabinets
This is vital for measuring for new cabinets.
- Measure Wall to Wall: Measure the distance between any two fixed objects (like walls or existing appliances) where the base cabinets will go. Take this measurement in at least three places: near the floor, halfway up, and near the top. Use the smallest measurement.
- Account for Gaps: Standard base cabinets are usually 24 inches deep (excluding the door/drawer front). If you need space for appliances, measure those spots separately.
- Final Width Calculation: Subtract a small gap (usually 1/4 inch total) from the smallest wall-to-wall measurement. This small gap allows for adjustments and shims. This helps ensure your total cabinet width fits the space.
Measuring Cabinet Depth
Depth is measured from the back wall to the front edge.
- Standard Depth: Most standard base cabinets are 24 inches deep.
- Measuring Obstructions: Check for pipes, window sills, or electrical outlets protruding from the wall that might limit depth. Measure the distance from the wall to the furthest point of any obstruction.
- Depth Confirmation: Measure the depth at three different points along the run of cabinets. Note the smallest depth to use for your order.
Measuring Cabinet Height
Base cabinet height determines countertop height.
- From Floor to Stud/Wall: Measure from the finished floor straight up to the bottom of the wall cabinets or to the ceiling line.
- Standard Height: Standard base cabinet height is typically 34.5 inches. Add the countertop thickness (usually 1.5 inches) to this for the finished height (usually 36 inches).
- Adjustments: If your floor is uneven, take the height measurement in several spots and use the shortest measurement. You will use shims to level the cabinets later.
How to Measure Upper (Wall) Cabinets
Wall cabinets hang above the counter. They must fit the wall height and the space between the counter and the bottom of the wall cabinet.
Measuring Upper Cabinet Height
Height is the most critical factor for wall cabinets.
- Measure Backsplash Space: Measure the distance from the finished countertop surface up to the bottom edge of the upper cabinets or the ceiling. This space is the maximum height available for your wall cabinets.
- Standard Height: Standard wall cabinets are 12 inches, 15 inches, 18 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches, 36 inches, or 42 inches tall. Choose a height that fits well in your measured space, leaving a little room above if necessary.
- Ceiling Alignment: If the ceiling is low, measure from the floor to the ceiling first. Then subtract the base cabinet height and the desired countertop thickness to find the maximum wall cabinet height you can use.
Measuring Upper Cabinet Width and Depth
Wall cabinet measurements follow similar rules to base cabinets.
- Depth: Standard wall cabinets are usually 12 inches deep. Measure the wall to ensure no obstructions limit this depth. Deeper wall cabinets (15 inches) are available but must be checked against doors or window frames.
- Width: Measure the wall space exactly as you did for the base cabinets—wall to wall, noting the smallest gap. Remember that cabinet widths are standard (e.g., 30″, 33″, 36″). You will plan your layout using these standard sizes.
Advanced Cabinetry Measurement Standards and Considerations
When determining kitchen cabinet sizes, you must look beyond just the empty wall space. You need to account for fillers, appliances, and special features.
Appliance and Fixture Placement
Appliances dictate cabinet sizing near them.
| Appliance Type | Standard Width (Inches) | Measurement Note |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 30 to 36 | Measure the actual width needed. |
| Dishwasher | 24 | Standard size; fits between two base cabinets. |
| Range/Stove | 30 (Common) | Needs dedicated cabinet spaces on either side for stability. |
| Microwave (Built-in) | Varies | Check the specific model’s cut-out dimensions. |
Accounting for Fillers and Gaps
Fillers are strips of wood used to bridge the gap between a cabinet and an uneven wall, or between two cabinets where a standard cabinet size won’t fit perfectly.
- Wall Gaps: Leave at least 1/4 inch clearance on each side where a cabinet meets an existing wall or appliance. Use a 3-inch filler strip if the gap is larger than 1/2 inch.
- Cabinet Runs: When planning a run of cabinets, add up the widths of the cabinets you plan to order. If this total is short of your measured wall length, plan to use filler strips at the ends.
Measuring for Specialty Cabinets (Pantry, Sink Base)
- Sink Base: These cabinets often need extra space inside for plumbing (pipes and garbage disposal). Measure the rough plumbing location beforehand. Sink bases are often wider (33″ or 36″) to accommodate this.
- Pantry Cabinets: These run floor-to-ceiling (or near it). Measure the full vertical distance. Ensure the top of the pantry unit aligns nicely with the top of the upper cabinets if they are on the same wall.
Using Professional Cabinet Measurement Tools for Accuracy
While a basic tape measure works, some tools increase precision, especially in older homes.
Laser Distance Measurers
These tools shoot a laser to the opposite wall, giving an instant, highly accurate reading. They eliminate the error that comes from bending tape measures or reading them at an angle. They are excellent for accurate cabinet measurement techniques.
Digital Levels and Inclinometers
If you suspect your floors are severely sloped, a digital level gives you an exact degree reading. This helps the installer know how much custom base work they need to do.
Documenting Your Measurements: Creating a Measurement Sheet
A clear, labeled sheet is your best friend. Never rely on memory. Use your rough sketch to create a formal measurement sheet.
Base Cabinet Measurement Checklist
| Location (e.g., Under Window, Left Wall) | Wall-to-Wall Width (Smallest Reading) | Depth (Smallest Reading) | Height (Floor to Wall Top) | Notes (Plumbing, Outlets) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Run 1, Left End | XX inches | XX inches | XX inches | Gap needed for 3″ filler |
| Run 1, Appliance Spot | 24 inches | 24 inches | XX inches | Dishwasher space |
| Run 1, Corner | XX inches | XX inches | XX inches |
Upper Cabinet Measurement Checklist
| Location (e.g., Above Sink, Right Wall) | Wall-to-Wall Width (Smallest Reading) | Depth (Standard 12″) | Max Height (Counter to Ceiling) | Notes (Hood location) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Run 2, Left End | XX inches | XX inches | XX inches | |
| Run 2, Above Range | XX inches | XX inches | XX inches | Must fit range hood |
Final Review: Double-Checking Your Work
This final step is crucial before placing any orders. This is the last chance to catch errors in your kitchen cabinet measuring tips.
The Rule of Three
Measure every single dimension three separate times.
- Measure 1: Take the measurement.
- Measure 2: Re-measure immediately. If it matches, move on. If not, measure a third time to confirm the correct reading.
- Measure 3: Confirm the final number.
Verification Against Cabinet Standards
Compare your final required measurements against the standard cabinet sizes offered by your supplier.
- If your space measures 32.5 inches wide, you must use a 30-inch cabinet plus a 2.5-inch filler strip, or a 33-inch cabinet (if available) leaving a smaller gap.
- Never assume a cabinet will be “close enough.” Cabinets come in very specific sizes.
Involving a Professional (When to Call for Help)
If you are ordering highly customized cabinetry, or if your walls have severe slopes or bumps, consider hiring a professional templater. They use specialized tools to create digital models, guaranteeing fit. While more costly upfront, this protects against the high cost of ordering the wrong size cabinets. However, for standard “stock” or “semi-custom” cabinets, careful adherence to these kitchen cabinet measuring tips should suffice for DIY kitchen cabinet measuring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cabinet Measurement
What is the standard depth for kitchen base cabinets?
The standard depth for most kitchen base cabinets is 24 inches (610 mm) from the back wall to the front of the cabinet box. This measurement usually does not include the door or drawer face, which adds an inch or two.
How much space should I leave between my base and upper cabinets?
The standard vertical gap, known as the backsplash area, is 18 inches. However, check the height of your countertop and the height of your wall cabinets. If you have a 36-inch finished counter height and plan to use standard 30-inch wall cabinets, you will have exactly 18 inches of space beneath them.
Should I measure existing cabinets or the empty space?
When measuring for new cabinets, you should primarily measure the empty space where the cabinets will go, using the smallest dimension found across multiple checks. If you are replacing old units, measure the old units only to get a starting point, but confirm that measurement against the actual wall opening.
What if my wall measurements are not standard cabinet widths?
This is where filler strips come in. Cabinet manufacturers design their products to fit around standard openings. If your wall is 117 inches wide, and standard cabinets come in 30″, 33″, and 36″, you would plan a combination (e.g., 36″ + 36″ + 33″ = 105″). The remaining 12 inches would be filled using 3-inch filler strips on either end against the wall, or a combination of filler strips between cabinets.
Does the tape measure need to be exact to the 1/8th of an inch?
Yes, when dealing with cabinetry measurement standards, precision is vital. Aim for 1/16th of an inch accuracy, but definitely no less than 1/8th. Minor discrepancies can prevent a seamless fit, especially when installing tall units or drawers that must align perfectly.