Best Cabinets
Service guide

Cabinet Installation

What professional installers do, and what to have ready before they arrive.

Published: March 3, 2026

installer leveling base cabinets

What Installers Do

Installers find the high point of the floor, set a level line, and work from there. Boxes are shimmed, fastened to the wall studs and to each other, and filler strips are scribed to uneven walls. Doors and drawers are adjusted at the end, and hardware is fitted. On a well-run job the difference shows in even gaps and doors that line up across a run.

Before Installation Day

The room should be empty, with rough plumbing and electrical complete and walls repaired. Flooring may go in before or after the cabinets depending on the type; ask your installer which they prefer. Check the delivery against the order before anything is installed.

Who Does the Work

Some cabinet companies use their own crews. Others subcontract, or leave installation to your contractor. Ask who is responsible if a cabinet arrives damaged or a measurement is wrong, and whether installation is covered by the warranty.

What Affects the Cost to Install Custom Cabinets?

Installation depends on the number and size of cabinets, wall and floor conditions, access to the room, and the fitting and finishing included in the job. Ask for a written scope that identifies removal, delivery, installation, hardware adjustment and touch-ups. If plumbing, electrical work or countertops are involved, confirm who coordinates them and whether they are included. The cabinet plan itself begins with the choices explained in the custom cabinets guide.

Find Cabinet Companies Near You

Each company in our city rankings lists the services it offers. Browse all states and cities, or start with Huntsville, Nashville, Atlanta or Tampa.

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