Medicine cabinets are an essential part of any bathroom. They provide a convenient and secure location to store medications, first-aid supplies, and other essential items. Installing a medicine cabinet is a relatively simple process that can be done in a few hours with the right tools and materials. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to install a medicine cabinet.
Preparing for the Installation
Before installing a medicine cabinet, it’s essential to prepare the area properly. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Measuring the Space for the Cabinet
The first step in preparing for the installation is to measure the space where you plan to install the medicine cabinet. Measure the height, width, and depth of the area to ensure that the cabinet you purchase fits perfectly. It’s also essential to measure the distance between the studs to ensure that the cabinet can be anchored securely to the wall.
Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials
The next step is to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Medicine cabinet
- Stud finder
- Level
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Anchors
- Screws
- Pencil
- Tape measure
Ensuring the Wall Can Support the Weight of the Cabinet
It’s essential to ensure that the wall where you plan to install the medicine cabinet can support the weight of the cabinet and its contents. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall. If the studs are not in the right location, you may need to install additional blocking to support the cabinet. With these steps completed, you are now ready to install the medicine cabinet.
Installing the Cabinet
Now that you’ve prepared the area, it’s time to install the medicine cabinet. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Marking the Location of the Cabinet on the Wall
Use a level to mark the location of the cabinet on the wall. Use a pencil to mark the center of each stud where the cabinet will be anchored.
Drilling Holes for the Mounting Hardware
Drill pilot holes into the studs where you marked the center of the studs. Use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the screws you will be using.
Mounting the Cabinet onto the Wall
Line up the mounting hardware on the back of the medicine cabinet with the pilot holes you drilled into the studs. Use screws to attach the mounting hardware to the studs. Once the mounting hardware is attached, hang the cabinet on the hardware. Use a level to ensure that the cabinet is straight. Finally, attach any additional hardware, such as door handles, if necessary.
With the medicine cabinet securely mounted to the wall, you are now ready to add shelves and doors to the cabinet.
Adding Shelves and Doors
Now that the cabinet is securely mounted, it’s time to add shelves and doors. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Measuring and Cutting Shelves to Fit Inside the Cabinet
Measure the interior of the cabinet to determine the size of the shelves you will need. Use a saw to cut the shelves to the correct size. Be sure to wear safety goggles when using a saw.
Installing the Shelves
Once you have cut the shelves to the correct size, it’s time to install them inside the cabinet. Place the shelves on the mounting brackets inside the cabinet. Use a level to ensure that the shelves are level.
Adding Doors to the Cabinet
If your medicine cabinet comes with doors, the next step is to install them. Attach the hinges to the cabinet first, then attach the doors to the hinges. Use a level to ensure that the doors are straight. If your medicine cabinet does not come with doors, you can skip this step.
With the shelves and doors installed, your medicine cabinet is now complete. However, there are a few finishing touches you can add to make your cabinet even more functional and attractive.
Finishing Touches
Here are a few finishing touches you can add to your medicine cabinet:
Covering up Mounting Hardware
To give your medicine cabinet a more polished look, you can cover up the mounting hardware with caps or covers. These are available at most hardware stores.
Painting or Staining the Cabinet to Match the Bathroom Decor
If you want your medicine cabinet to match the decor of your bathroom, you can paint or stain it. Be sure to choose a paint or stain that is suitable for use in a bathroom.
Installing Any Additional Features, Such as Lighting or Mirrors
If you want to make your medicine cabinet even more functional, you can install additional features such as lighting or mirrors. You can purchase these separately and install them yourself, or you can hire a professional to do it for you.
With these finishing touches completed, your medicine cabinet is now complete. It’s important to keep your medicine cabinet organized and tidy to ensure that you can easily find what you need when you need it. With a little effort, you can install a medicine cabinet that is both functional and stylish, adding value and convenience to your bathroom.
Finishing Touches
With the medicine cabinet installed, it’s time to add some finishing touches to make it look great and functional. Here are some tips:
Covering Up Mounting Hardware
After installing the medicine cabinet, use some putty to cover up the screw holes and give the cabinet a cleaner look. Once the putty is dry, sand it down, and paint over it to match the color of the cabinet.
Painting or Staining the Cabinet to Match the Bathroom Decor
If you don’t like the color of the medicine cabinet, you can paint or stain it to match the rest of the bathroom’s decor. Before painting or staining, make sure to sand down the surface to ensure the paint or stain adheres correctly. Once the surface is smooth, apply the paint or stain in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next.
Installing Any Additional Features, Such as Lighting or Mirrors
If you want to add some extra features to your medicine cabinet, such as lighting or mirrors, now is the time to do it. You can install LED lights on the inside of the cabinet to make it easier to find what you need. You can also add a mirror to the front of the cabinet to make it more functional.
Conclusion
Installing a medicine cabinet is a simple process that can be done in a few hours with the right tools and materials. To recap, here are the steps you need to follow:
- Measure the space for the cabinet
- Gather necessary tools and materials
- Ensure the wall can support the weight of the cabinet
- Mark the location of the cabinet on the wall, drill holes for the mounting hardware, and mount the cabinet onto the wall
- Cover up mounting hardware, paint or stain the cabinet to match the bathroom decor, and install any additional features, such as lighting or mirrors.
By following these steps, you can have a functional and beautiful medicine cabinet in your bathroom. Remember to maintain your cabinet regularly to ensure it lasts for many years to come. With proper installation and maintenance, your medicine cabinet will serve you well for years to come.