Dealing with cabinets in a room where the walls aren't perfectly square can be a challenge, but it's a common issue in many homes. Here are some tips to help you address this problem when installing or refacing cabinets:
Measure Carefully: Before you start installing or placing the cabinets, take precise measurements of the walls, corners, and any irregularities. Use a measuring tape and a level to determine the extent of the unevenness.
Scribe the Cabinets: Scribing is a technique used to fit cabinets against uneven walls. It involves tracing the contour of the wall onto the cabinet so that you can cut it to match the wall's shape. Here's how to do it:
- Place the cabinet in position and make sure it is level and plumb.
- Take a compass or a scribe tool and set it to the widest gap between the cabinet and the wall.
- Run the scribe tool along the wall, and the pencil will mark the irregularities of the wall onto the cabinet side.
- Use a jigsaw to carefully cut along the scribed line to match the wall's shape.
Shimming: Use shims to fill in any gaps between the back of the cabinet and the wall. Shims are thin, wedge-shaped pieces that can be inserted behind the cabinets to provide support and help align them with the uneven walls.
Trim or Molding: Adding trim or molding can help cover small gaps between the cabinets and the walls. You can use quarter-round or scribe moldings to create a finished look and conceal imperfections.
Adjustable Feet or Legs: If the floor is also uneven, you can use cabinets with adjustable feet or legs. By adjusting the height of the feet, you can level the cabinets and ensure a stable installation.
Custom Cabinets: In some cases, particularly if the unevenness is extreme, custom cabinets might be the best solution. Custom cabinets can be tailored to fit the exact measurements of your space, accommodating any irregularities in the walls.
Professional Help: If you're unsure about dealing with the uneven walls and installing cabinets, consider seeking help from a professional carpenter or cabinet installer. They have experience dealing with such issues and can ensure a precise and secure installation.
Remember that achieving a perfect fit in a room with uneven walls can be challenging, but with patience, careful measurements, and the right techniques, you can get close to a seamless installation or refacing of your cabinets.