How To Install Kitchen Cabinets
with the T-JAK®

TOOL and MATERIAL CHECKLIST

How to install cabinets the T-JAK® way:

1. Check the floor for level and find the highest point.
   
2. Measure up 34-1/2" from the high point of floor and mark a level line on the walls for the base cabinet height.
   
3. Determine the height of the wall cabinets. Typically 54" up from the high point or 19-1/2" above the base cabinet line.
   
   
   1. Check the starting corner for square and plumb.
      
   2. Mark the cabinet layout on the wall for both the wall and the base cabinets. Include fillers if needed to align base and wall cabinets to fit to range, microwave, oven/pantry cabinet. Note: wall and base cabinets must line up perfectly at these locations.
      
   3. For corner wall cabinets, measure 24" from the corner and draw a plumb line.
      
   4. Locate and mark the wall studs
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4. Start installation with the corner cabinet. It is best to remove the cabinet doors before installing. Set the cabinet on the T-JAK and raise to level line on wall. Turn the T-JAK® knob to make final adjustments. Anchor the cabinet to the studs with wood screws supplied by cabinet manufacturer. Place shims behind the cabinet to make it perfectly plumb and level.
   
5. Start the next cabinet by raising into position with the T-JAK and adjust to line up perfectly with the corner cabinet. Align cabinet front and clamp together. Drill and screw front stiles together. Fasten cabinet to wall studs. It is usually necessary to slide a shim between the cabinet and the stud in order to keep the cabinets plumb and straight.
   
6. For micro wave, range hood and refrigerator cabinets, use the T-JAK® to support and align cabinet with the top of the adjoining cabinet. Note: In some kitchen designs these cabinets may be set at lower height.
   
7. Install corner base cabinet to 34-1/2" level line. This cabinet must be perfectly level and plumb. Place shims under cabinet to line it up to level line. Check for plumb on front and sides of cabinet. It is usually necessary to place shims between wall stud and cabinet to adjust cabinet for plumb. Drill and screw to wall studs.
   
8. Continue setting base cabinets to level line. Place shims at wall studs and floor, as needed, to keep cabinets level, straight and plumb. Fasten cabinet stiles and fronts per cabinet manufacturer's instructions.
   
9. Install oven and/or pantry cabinet up against adjoining base and wall cabinets.
   
10. When the base cabinets are installed, measure for counter top.
    
11. Install doors, trim, and moldings.