A Complete Guide to Measuring Corner Cabinets

Installing new corner cabinets can transform the look and utility of your kitchen. But to enjoy a perfect fit, you need accurate measurements. Measuring corner cabinets presents unique challenges compared to standard cabinets due to their angular shape and placement in the room. Fortunately, with the right tools and techniques, you can master measuring for flawless corner cabinet installation.

You'll learn techniques for measuring interior and exterior dimensions, calculating critical clearances, and avoiding common mistakes. Follow along to gain the expert knowledge required for measuring success.

The Importance of Precise Corner Cabinet Measurements

Many homeowners underestimate the importance of measurements when installing corner cabinets. But imprecise calculations can lead to a poor fit, resulting in lost storage space, accessibility issues, or damage over time. Carefully measuring before installing corner cabinets helps ensure:

• Maximized storage capacity within the corner space
• Doors and drawers that open easily without obstruction
• Adequate room for hinges and hardware
• Proper weight distribution and support
• A void-free fit against the corner walls

The modest time investment in measuring pays off tremendously in long-term functionality and aesthetics. Accurately measuring for corner cabinets is crucial because once they are installed, errors are difficult and expensive to correct. So let's cover how to measure corner cabinets like a pro.

Preparing for Success: Tools and Space Needed

To set yourself up for measurement success, start by gathering the necessary tools and clearing the space.

Essential Measuring Tools

Having the right gear on hand will make measuring easier. The essential items include:

• 25-foot tape measure: Look for one that retracts easily and has clear, durable markings.
• 4-foot level: Used to check for flat and plumb surfaces.
• Pencil and paper: For recording the measurements accurately.
• Ladder/step stool: Helpful for measuring ceilings and high walls.
• Stud finder: Locates wood studs behind the walls for securing cabinets.

Optional extras like a laser distance measure, chalk line, and combination square can also come in handy.

Clearing and Assessing the Corner Space

Before starting to measure, thoroughly examine the corner space:

• Remove freestanding furniture and clean the area so measurements are easier.
• Look for any wiring, plumbing, or existing shelves that could impact cabinet placement.
• Check for level and plumb surfaces using a 4-foot level.
• Note any irregularities like out-of-square corners that may require shims or filler panels during installation.

Addressing any potential issues at this stage makes cabinet installation smoother later on.

Measuring Techniques: Interior vs. Exterior Dimensions

When ready to start measuring, focus first on the interior dimensions within the corner. Then work outward to capture the exterior surfaces.

Inside Cabinet Dimensions

Take detailed measurements of the empty space inside the corner where you plan to install the cabinet:

• Measure the length and width from wall to wall at both the floor and ceiling.
• Note any differences between floor and ceiling measurements due to tapering or inconsistencies.
• Measure the depth from the corner to any adjacent cabinets or appliances.
• Check for plumbing, ductwork, or other obstacles protruding from the walls.

Be sure to measure at multiple spots rather than relying on one dimension to reveal any variability that could impact installation.

External Surface Dimensions

Next, capture the critical exterior measurements:

• Measure the height from the floor to the ceiling, noting the shortest height if uneven.
• Measure the width of each corner wall from floor to ceiling and corner to corner.
• Account for any irregularities like bowed walls that could prevent flush fitting.

These measurements will determine the minimum cabinet size that will fully fit the space.

Door and Drawer Clearances

With the cabinet framework measured, factor in functionality:

• Measure the clearance needed for doors/drawers to fully open without hitting walls.
• Note the space needed for door hinges to operate and hardware to be accessible.
• Consider the swing direction and if adjacent cabinets or appliances will limit motion.

Incorporating these clearances prevents doors and drawers from bumping into obstacles once installed.

Additional Measurements and Calculations

Beyond basic width, height, and depth, some additional measurements are useful for planning:

Preferred Cabinet Height

Consider the ideal height based on your needs:

• Standard base cabinet height is 34-36 inches, but you may prefer 30-33 inches for easier access.
• Wall cabinets typically install at 54-56 inches but can be lowered to 48-52 inches over sinks.

Adequate Interior Depth and Width

Check that you have adequate interior depth and width:

• Default corner cabinet depth is 24-26 inches. Measure your items to ensure sufficient room.
• Allow a couple extra inches beyond the minimum interior dimensions for ease of installation.

Weight and Structural Support

Consider the cabinet's weight and reinforcements needed:

• Corner cabinets carry more weight compared to straight cabinets.
• Inspect the corner to see if additional braces or supports are required.
• Account for heavy contents like dishes that add substantial weight.

Avoiding Common Measuring Mistakes

Attention to detail is vital for accurate corner cabinet measurements. Avoid these common errors:

• Measuring just once: Double-check all dimensions to detect any discrepancies.
• Not accounting for drawer clearance: Be sure to measure how far doors/drawers open.
• Forgetting to measure adjacent walls: Don't just measure inside the corner alone.
• Not using a level: Check for uneven surfaces that could impede fitting.
• Failing to record carefully: Document all measurements clearly for reference.
• Not accounting for obstructions: Check for pipes, wires, ducts, existing cabinets, etc.

Repeating measurements and using a checklist prevents missing critical details.

With an understanding of the techniques and best practices for measuring corner cabinets, you can install your new cabinetry with confidence. Allow ample time to measure meticulously and double-check all the dimensions. Having accurate measurements on hand will make installing and securing the cabinets much smoother.

Just follow the steps outlined here to get the perfect fit for optimal function and aesthetic appeal in your new corner cabinetry. Precise measurements help ensure your cabinetry investment yields years of satisfaction by maximizing your corner space.