How to Measure Kitchen for Cabinets. Planning the kitchen layout is a big decision and one that should not be taken lightly. There are many factors to consider, including where the appliances and sink should go, whether you want or need an island or peninsula, what kind of cabinets you will use, and how much space you have in your kitchen. This blog post will explore the most important considerations when measuring your kitchen for cabinets.
How to Measure Your Kitchen for Cabinets
Measure your kitchen counters to find out how much space you have. This will help in determining what type of cabinets and islands you may need. Measure the length, width, and height of each side of your kitchen.
Figure out the dimension for your island or peninsula. Consider where you want to put your appliances and whether there is enough room for them.
If you are using a peninsula, measure its dimensions from front to back (not from corner to corner). Also, consider if it will obstruct the sink.
Determine the height of your cabinets by measuring the height of your ceiling, then adding about 18-20 inches for clearance. If needed, use a cabinet that is two or three inches taller than this height to ensure enough clearance for dishes on top shelves and pots and pans on bottom racks.
Figure out how much floor space you have when including islands and pantries by measuring from wall to wall in one side of the room, then repeating this process with every other wall until all four dimensions are found.
Measure at least three times! You want to make sure everything is right before moving forward with any design decisions.
What Size Cabinets Will Fit
The first thing to do when measuring for cabinets is to determine what size cabinets will fit. The most common cabinet sizes are 24″ deep, 30″ deep, and 36″ deep.
The 24″ depth cabinets are the most shallow and are a perfect choice for smaller kitchens or if you want to get maximum counter space by adding a breakfast bar.
This cabinet depth offers little storage space and can only hold one row of shelves.
A 30″ depth is the most common cabinet depth these days. It’s often used in kitchen remodels as they offer a good balance of storage, counter space, and price point. This cabinet depth can accommodate two rows of shelves with an extra shelf at the bottom.
Lastly, 36″ depth cabinets are the deepest and also offer a lot of storage capacity but take up more room in your kitchen layout. If you have more space on either side of your range, then this is probably your best pick as it will offer more storage than any other option available.
Measure the Countertop
The first step of measuring for your cabinets is determining the space you have to work with. Take a tape measure and measure the length and width of your countertop. Measure from one end to the other, including any space in between. This will be the measurement of your countertop.
We recommend that you allow at least 24 inches on each side of your sink for clearance. If you would like some extra storage space or an island, we recommend adding at least 36 inches to each side of the sink.
Measure the Ceiling Height
One of the first considerations when measuring kitchen cabinets is the height of the ceiling. It’s best to measure from the floor to the underside of your cabinets. If you are using standard cabinet heights, then you need to make sure that you have at least 8″ from the top of your cabinet to the ceiling. How to Measure Kitchen for Cabinets.
This measurement doesn’t include any space for crown molding or other decorative pieces. If you will be including decor on top of your cabinets, then accounting for these items is necessary for determining how high your ceiling needs to be. For example, if you wanted crown molding on top of your cabinets and it was 8″ tall, then you would need a 10″ overhang above them (8″+2″).
Measure the Wall Length
One of the first things you need to do is measure the wall length. The wall-length measurement will determine where your cabinets can go, as well as how many cabinets you will need. If you have a long wall, you may want to install an island in the middle of the room so that your kitchen has more counter space. If your wall is shorter, then it’s likely that your cabinet section will be shorter and won’t have an island in the middle.
How to Measure for Appliances and Countertops
The first step in measuring for a kitchen is to decide where you want your appliances and countertops to go. Once that is decided, measure the wall space for major appliances, such as the refrigerator and range/oven. Measure the width of the counter space that you want, as well as the depth of cabinetry you need. Remember to leave enough room for most people, usually five feet or less, on either side of the cooktop or range. The depth of your cabinets will depend on how many are being installed, but they should be at least 36 inches deep.
What Size Should the Cabinets Be
The first question to ask yourself is what size cabinets you would like. If you are planning on opening up your kitchen, you’ll want your cabinets to be at least 36 inches tall. This will make it easier for you to use your counter space, as well as reach items without needing a step stool or ladder. Consider the amount of storage space needed and if any of the appliances will have to be stored inside the cabinetry, such as a dishwasher.
Another thing to consider is how far apart you want each cabinet. Most kitchens have an 18-inch gap between doors for accessibility, but if possible try to get one with 24-inches spacing. Keep in mind that most people who are taller than 5’8″ will not be able to comfortably reach items in the back of a cabinet with 18-inch spacing. The same goes for people who are shorter than 4’11”.
Measure the width of your cabinets before anything else, because this is going to determine how many cabinets you need. Measure from one side of the wall or column (depending on where it will go) and mark where the other side needs to be. Then measure across that distance, which should give you enough information about how many cabinet feet and base legs you need for installation purposes.
You also want to know whether or not any walls may interfere with installing your cabinets in their desired location before taking measurements. For example, if your sink is near an outside wall (which is common). How to Measure Kitchen for Cabinets.
See More: How to Hang a Chandelier From a 20-foot Ceiling
What is an Island or Peninsula
An island or peninsula is a “pull-out” countertop that features cabinets underneath. Is it better to have one or the other? Peninsula: Pros: Saves on floor space, is more central, can be used as a breakfast bar and/or workspace Cons: Cannot be used as an eating area, may not allow for extra square footage
Island: Pros: Creates a gathering place in the kitchen, can increase the square footage of the kitchen, allows for seating at counters or stools Cons: May take up too much space and lead to design limitations
Measure your Available Space
How to Measure Kitchen for Cabinets. Measure your available space before starting the planning process. The dimensions of your kitchen are very important when it comes to buying cabinets, so be sure to take this into consideration. You don’t want to buy cabinets that are too big or too small for your space, and you don’t want them to either overhang or stick out past the walls of your home.
Conclusion
By measuring your kitchen cabinets, you can make sure the ones you purchase will fit. You should measure the countertop, the height of your ceiling, the length of your wall, and the size of your appliances. The measurements you take will help determine what size cabinet you need. However, before you measure, ask yourself if you want an island or peninsula, and measure your available space. Once everything is marked off, you can go shopping to find the perfect set of cabinets for your kitchen.