Need More Room? Add Cabinets Above Kitchen Ones Now

If your kitchen is feeling cramped and disorganized, installing cabinets above your existing ones can provide a simple storage solution. This approach instantly gives you more space for rarely used items while opening up the overall look of the room.

Adding overhead cabinets is an easy weekend project that can make a major impact. Here's everything you need to know to get started.

Assess Your Space for Added Cabinets

Before selecting and installing new cabinets, carefully measure your existing space to ensure the new additions will fit properly. Here's what to check:

Measure Between Countertops and Ceiling

Use a tape measure to find the exact height between your countertops and ceiling. Standard cabinet sizes are 30-36 inches tall. Ensure you have at least that much room for the new cabinets to fit comfortably.

Check For Obstructions

Note any ceiling lights, fans, vents or pipes that could get in the way when placing new cabinets. You may need to adjust exact cabinet location to work around them.

Calculate Room For Moldings or Trim

Make sure to account for any additional inches needed if your kitchen has crown molding or other trim along the wall and ceiling. The cabinets must fit below this.

Choose Cabinetry to Complement Current Style

When selecting new overhead cabinets, choose units that match the finish, style, and color of your existing cabinetry for a cohesive look. Key details to match:

• Cabinet type: framed or frameless
• Height, width, and depth dimensions
• Door style: slab, shaker, inset panels
• Painted finish or wood stain

Tracking down the same cabinets may be possible if you renovated recently. If not, take careful measurements and descriptions to a home improvement store. Ordering custom cabinets tailored to your space is another option for a consistent design.

Prepare the Room for Installation

Once you have the new cabinets purchased, you'll need to get the kitchen ready for installing them securely and effectively.

Clear Countertops and Protect Surfaces

First, remove everything from your countertops and place in secure, temporary storage. Then cover all countertops, sinks, and floors with drop cloths to protect from dust and debris.

Have Tools Ready

Gather all the hardware, tools, and safety gear you will require during installation, including:

• Tape measure
• Stud finder
• Level
• Power drill
• Safety goggles and gloves

Having everything easily accessible will streamline the install process.

Purchase Required Materials

Check that you have all necessary materials for mounting the cabinets like screws, anchors, and trim pieces before getting started. Having to stop mid-project to get something you forgot can be frustrating.

Install New Cabinets Securely

When ready, roll up your sleeves and start the satisfying work of physically mounting your beautiful new overhead cabinets.

Find and Mark Stud Locations

First, locate the wall studs in your installation area using a stud finder. Mark their exact locations with painter's tape. You'll attach the cabinets directly into the strong wood studs for maximum security.

Determine Cabinet Position

Next, plan out exactly where your cabinets will go using additional tape to map locations on the walls and ceiling. Double check you have proper clearance distances around ceiling lights or other obstacles noted earlier.

Mount Cabinets

Now comes the most labor-intensive step: securely fastening the cabinets to the walls using screws anchored deeply into the supporting wall studs you marked. Use heavy-duty wall anchors between studs if needed for added stability.

Install Trim and Moldings

For a flawless built-in look, finish by installing coordinating trim pieces around the edges of the newly mounted cabinets. This completes your upgraded, expanded cabinetry installation!

Maximize New Found Storage Space

With your kitchen's storage capacity expanded thanks to the new overhead cabinets, it's time to put that space to good use. Here are tips:

Use Shelf Organizers

Incorporate pull-out trays, tiered holders and other organizers to make the most of the new vertical storage area.

Try Cabinet Accessories

Specialized racks or holders keep often-used items right at your fingertips while freeing up actual shelf space.

Utilize Dead Space Efficiently

Take advantage of every nook and cranny by loading items into corner areas and making the most of all available height.

Installing extra cabinets above your existing kitchen set adds storage instantly, expands the feel of the room, and puts wasted space to work. With some careful planning and elbow grease, you can complete this project in a weekend!

For a seamless look that appears custom built-in, focus on selecting overlay cabinets in the same style and finish as current cabinetry in your kitchen. Complement them with matching trim and organizers to keep items neatly tucked away but still easy to access.

Our kitchen makeover is proof that you really can gain a major functional upgrade in just two quick days. Now turn your sights upwards and unleash the potential hanging over your own kitchen cabinets today!