Leveling base cabinets for granite countertops is an essential step in the installation process to ensure a stable and even surface for the heavy stone. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to level base cabinets for granite:
Materials you'll need:
- Level
- Shims (plastic or wood)
- Screwdriver or drill
- Screws
Step 1: Prepare the Area Make sure the floor where the cabinets will be installed is clean and level. If the floor is uneven, you may need to address this issue before proceeding with the cabinet installation.
Step 2: Position the Base Cabinets Set the base cabinets in their designated positions according to your kitchen layout and secure them together using screws provided by the manufacturer. Make sure they are aligned correctly and level front to back and side to side.
Step 3: Check for Levelness Place a level on top of the cabinets from front to back and side to side. Ensure the cabinets are level in both directions. If they are not level, adjust their position by shimming underneath the cabinets.
Step 4: Insert Shims Starting from the lowest corner, insert shims between the cabinet and the floor until the cabinet is level. Use shims made of plastic or wood to avoid moisture-related issues in the future. Tap the shims gently with a hammer to secure them in place.
Step 5: Check for Stability After inserting the shims, recheck the cabinet for levelness and stability. Make any necessary adjustments by adding or removing shims until the cabinets are perfectly level.
Step 6: Secure the Cabinets Once the cabinets are level and stable, secure them to the wall studs using screws through the back of the cabinet. This step will ensure that the cabinets remain in place and do not shift during countertop installation.
Step 7: Verify Levelness Again After securing the cabinets to the wall, double-check their levelness to ensure that they haven't shifted during the fastening process. Adjust the shims if needed to maintain a level surface.
Step 8: Install the Granite Countertop With the base cabinets now properly leveled and secured, the granite countertop installation can proceed. Professional installers will typically measure and cut the granite slab to fit precisely on the level cabinets.
It's essential to have your granite countertops installed by experienced professionals who are familiar with the process, as granite is heavy and can crack if mishandled during installation. A professional installer will also make sure the countertops are level and properly secured to the cabinets.