Quck answer
To install kitchen cabinets on plaster walls, follow these steps:
1. Measure and mark the desired height for the cabinets on the wall.
2. Locate the studs in the wall using a stud finder and mark their positions.
3. Use a level to draw a horizontal line along the wall at the height of the bottom of the cabinets.
4. Install a ledger board along the line, attaching it to the studs with screws.
5. Begin installing the cabinets, starting with the corner ones and then moving outward.
6. Secure the cabinets to the wall by screwing through the back panel into the studs.
7. Use shims to ensure the cabinets are level and plumb.
8. Install the cabinet doors, drawers, and any additional hardware.
By following these steps, you can successfully install kitchen cabinets on plaster walls.
Installing cabinets on plaster walls can be challenging, since the wall itself is not strong enough to bear the weight of the cabinet. However, if the installation is done into the wall studs, it should be able to support the weight effectively.
However, locating the studs can be difficult, especially since their placement can vary from home to home depending on the age of the house or the manufacturing process. It is not advisable to hang wall cabinets without studs.
Finding Wall Studs
To get started, locate the wall studs in your kitchen wall. For newer homes, the studs should be uniformly spaced, but for older homes, they may not be. You can use a battery-operated stud finder to locate the studs by detecting something solid on the other side of the plaster. If the plaster is placed on a metal lathe, the stud finder may not work correctly. In such cases, you may knock on the walls to listen for a solid sound and then sink a probe into the wall to locate a wall stud. Mark the edges of the stud locations to know where to drill in the center.
Hanging Cabinets on Plaster Walls
Once you have located the studs, use a carpenter’s level to mark the locations of the bottom of the cabinet on the wall. Use a chalk line to snap a line for accuracy and check that it is level. Drill four holes in the rear of the cabinet with a 3/16-inch drill bit, spaced according to the measurement of the studs, two holes per stud. Place the cabinet against the wall using a cabinet jack to hold it in place. Use a cabinet jack beneath the cabinet to adjust its level to the marked chalk line. If possible, get someone to help hold the cabinet in place as well.
Drill starter holes into the wall studs using the holes in the cabinet as a guide. Remove the cabinet from the wall and run the 2 ВЅ-inch deck screws through the holes in the rear of the cabinet, using cabinet washers to keep the screws level. Place the cabinet back on the wall using the cabinet jack to keep it level. Place wood shims between the rear of the cabinet and the wall to make it plumb and level. Secure the cabinet in place using wood screws and then remove the cabinet jack. The cabinet should now be secure against the plaster wall.
No Wall Studs? That’s a Problem
Hanging kitchen cabinets on plasterboard walls without wall studs is not advisable. Alternative screws like drywall screws are not suitable for handling the weight of a cabinet. In such cases, you may need to mount the cabinets from the ceiling studs instead, according to the Journal of Light Construction.
FAQ
1. Can I install kitchen cabinets directly onto plaster walls?
Yes, it is possible to install kitchen cabinets directly onto plaster walls. However, it is important to ensure that the walls are sturdy and in good condition before proceeding. Start by removing any old cabinets or fixtures from the wall. Then, use a stud finder to locate the wall studs. Mark the stud locations on the wall and use them as a guide for installing the cabinets. It is also recommended to use wall anchors or toggle bolts for added stability and support.
2. What tools do I need to install kitchen cabinets on plaster walls?
To install kitchen cabinets on plaster walls, you will need a few basic tools. These include a stud finder, a level, a drill, a screwdriver, a measuring tape, a pencil, and a hammer. Additionally, you may need wall anchors or toggle bolts for added support, depending on the weight of the cabinets. Having these tools on hand will make the installation process much easier and more efficient.
3. Should I remove the plaster before installing kitchen cabinets?
In most cases, it is not necessary to remove the plaster before installing kitchen cabinets. However, if the plaster is in poor condition or if you prefer to have a clean surface for installation, you can choose to remove it. Keep in mind that removing plaster can be a time-consuming and messy process. If you decide to remove the plaster, make sure to properly prepare the wall surface before installing the cabinets. This may involve patching and smoothing the wall or installing a new drywall.
4. How do I ensure that the cabinets are level on plaster walls?
To ensure that the cabinets are level on plaster walls, it is essential to use a level during the installation process. Start by marking the desired height for the cabinets on the wall. Then, use a level to draw a straight line across the wall at this height. This line will serve as a guide for positioning the cabinets. As you install each cabinet, use the level to check for both vertical and horizontal alignment. Adjust the positioning and use shims if necessary to achieve a level installation.
5. Can I install upper cabinets directly onto plaster walls without a backsplash?
Yes, it is possible to install upper cabinets directly onto plaster walls without a backsplash. However, it is important to ensure that the cabinets are securely attached to the wall studs for stability. If you choose not to have a backsplash, make sure to properly seal and finish the area between the cabinets and the countertop to protect the plaster from moisture and damage. Consider using a waterproof caulk or a decorative trim to create a clean and finished look.