If you are a beginner when it comes to DIY, the thought of making big changes like replacing your kitchen cabinet doors may seem like an impossible task. You may assume that the job will be costly because you will need to get a builder in to do the work for you. In fact, if you are capable of putting up shelves, you will be able to replace your kitchen doors. Best of all it won't cost you a thing in labour costs and it will be completed in just one weekend or less.
Tools
It is very likely that you will already have the tools which you need to complete this job. Even if your toolbox is a little on the empty side, these tools will be easy to borrow from a neighbour or a family member.
- A tape measure to check the sizes before you order. Most people will have some kind of tape measure in their home. Even one from a your sewing kit should do the job.
- A basic screwdriver will be needed to attach new handles to your doors and the adjust the hinge mechanism. Make sure you have both a Philips head and flat headed screwdriver of varying sizes.
- A powered screwdriver will be needed to fit the doors and to remove the old ones. While you may be able to do this with a basic screwdriver, the use of an electric one makes the whole job much quicker and easier. If you don't have one of these you could borrow one from a friend or buy one very cheaply from a DIY store. You do not need anything which is too heavy duty.
- You may also require a level to check the doors are straight. Once the doors are attached you can use a level across the top to see they are straight. If you don't have one, you can use your eye. This latter option does not require a trip to the DIY store!
Skills
You may think that experience in handling tools and fitting kitchens would be a prerequisite for fitting new kitchen doors. Well, if you have already fitted a shelf, you already have the right skills. Even if you haven't, you can still master the skills required for this job.
- You need to be able to accurately measure in order to get the right size doors and to ensure the hinges are fitted in the right place. You should measure the old doors when they are removed. Your kitchen door website should be able to tell you exactly what to measure.
- You also need to be able to handle a drill to help you remove the old doors and attach the new ones. This takes no more than five minutes to master. Ask for an in-store demonstration if you are unsure. Practise on a spare piece of wood first to get your skills up to scratch.
- Once the doors are fitted you need a good eye or a level to check they are straight and even. Simply standing back and checking out your hard work may be all that is required. But using a level will ensure absolute accuracy.
As you can see, fitting kitchen doors is an easy task, which you will be able to complete without any help at all. From the measuring, to the removal, to the fitting, this is a job which you can complete on your own. Not only will this save you money and time, you will also have the satisfaction of having done a DIY job which makes a huge difference to your home.
For more information on how to fit kitchen doors, check out our library of videos and guides to watch and download