Pre-Installation Checklist

Removing your current kitchen cabinets and installing new ones involves demolition of cabinets and countertops. Please keep in mind that the process will create noise and dust. A kitchen remodel can take anywhere from 2 weeks to several weeks, depending on the size and complexity of your project, product lead times, and contractor availability.
To help ensure a smooth experience, please review and follow the guidelines below.

 

Before Tear-Out of Existing Cabinets

Water & Plumbing

 

    • Locate your main water shut-off valve.
      When sink supply lines are disconnected, the shut-off valves may leak. The main shut-off may be required until any valve issues are addressed.

    • If you are removing your own sink, ensure it is disconnected from both the water supply and drain lines.

 

Clearing the Kitchen

 

    • Remove all dishes, silverware, food items, and personal belongings from the dishwasher, cabinets, and drawers.

    • Plan a temporary location for appliances during installation.

       

        • Refrigerators can often be moved to a dining room or nearby space.

        • It may remain plugged in if space is cleared.

        • The fuller the refrigerator is, the heavier and more difficult it will be to move.

 

Appliance Removal

If you are removing appliances yourself, please ensure the refrigerator, dishwasher, range, and any other appliances are removed from the kitchen and work areas prior to installation.
If you would like your installer to disconnect or remove appliances, please notify them in advance so adequate time can be scheduled. Additional charges may apply.

 

Wall Hangings

 

    • Remove pictures, mirrors, wall décor, and fragile items from kitchen and adjoining walls.
      Vibrations during construction may cause them to fall.

 

Drywall, Electrical, & Plumbing Adjustments

If you are removing cabinets yourself and making changes to electrical or plumbing:

 

    • All electrical and plumbing work must be completed before installation day.

    • Any opened walls must be fully repaired.
      Cabinets cannot be installed over open or unfinished walls.
      Walls must be closed, taped, and sealed with drywall mud.

 

Acclimation

Cabinets must be delivered into the space where they will be installed and allowed to acclimate for 24–48 hours before installation begins.
This helps the wood stabilize for temperature and humidity, reducing gaps or unevenness after installation.

 

Work Space

 

    • If your cabinets are being assembled on-site, your installer will need a workspace of approximately 8 ft × 8 ft for an assembly table.

    • For safety, please keep children and pets out of the work area at all times.

    • Construction creates dust, and some cutting inside the home may be necessary.
      Consider turning off HVAC systems and covering air intakes during installation.

 

Packaging

Please designate an area—such as a garage—for stacking cabinet packaging.
Cardboard can be set out for recycling, and remaining packaging materials will be bagged for disposal.

 

Outdoor Staging (Weather Permitting)

 

    • Installers may set up saws and tools outside when weather allows.

    • Please allow space in the driveway for tools and the installation vehicle.

    • Locate an exterior outlet for your installer to power tools.