Cabinetry & Millwork Installation Flashcards

When installing base cabinets, what should be determined first before any installation begins?

Answer: Find the highest point of the floor

Finding the floor's high point ensures all base cabinets can be shimmed level without creating gaps that exceed shim capacity.

What is the standard finished height of base kitchen cabinets, excluding the countertop?

Answer: 34.5 inches

Standard base cabinets are 34.5 inches tall so that when a 1.5-inch countertop is added, the finished work surface reaches the industry-standard 36 inches.

What is the standard clearance between a kitchen countertop surface and the bottom of upper wall cabinets?

Answer: 18 inches

18 inches of clearance is the industry standard, providing adequate workspace while keeping upper cabinets within comfortable reach for most users.

When joining two face-frame cabinets side by side, which fastener type is most commonly recommended?

Answer: Pocket hole screws

Pocket hole screws create strong, concealed joints between cabinet face frames and are specifically engineered for this type of application.

What is the standard depth of base kitchen cabinets?

Answer: 24 inches

24 inches is the standard base cabinet depth, accommodating standard appliances and providing adequate storage while fitting within typical kitchen layouts.

Which tool provides the most efficient and accurate reference line when installing a full run of upper cabinets?

Answer: Laser level

A laser level projects a continuous level reference line across the entire wall, allowing precise layout and installation without repeated individual measurements.

What is the purpose of a temporary ledger board when installing upper wall cabinets?

Answer: To support cabinet weight during installation before permanent fastening

A ledger board is screwed to the wall at the cabinet bottom line, giving the installer a solid shelf to rest heavy cabinets on while driving the mounting screws hands-free.