Despite huge variations in shape, size and form, wall units share many common processes. We’ll take a look at how to build a wall cabinet in terms of the planning, precision work required and choosing the right tools and equipment.
We’ll also highlight common challenges that may be faced during the build and installation.
Types of wall cabinets
Cabinet with a solid back
This is a common cabinet design that is typically used in environments such as kitchens, laundries, or other storage areas. The solid back adds to the unit’s structural integrity, allowing the surface to fix the cabinet to a variety of wall surfaces such as timber, masonry, or steel frames.
Cabinet with rail back
A cabinet constructed with back rails creates a lighter, more flexible design than a solid backed wall cabinet. This cabinet design reduces material costs and can be useful when working with uneasy walls that are uneven or angled.
The rails are easily hidden, they can be covered with a material such as 3mm MDF. See an exploded view below of a wall cabinet with back rails covered in a 3mm MDF sheet. This unit was designed in PolyBoard cabinet design software.
Cabinets with pull-up doors (AVENTOS system)
Wall cabinets with pull-up doors are perfect for modern kitchens and bathrooms, often utilising advanced systems like the Blum AVENTOS. These systems allow doors to open vertically, optimizing space and enhancing convenience by efficiently utilising overhead storage. The vertical design also reduces the risk of accidents commonly associated with traditional swinging doors.
Pull-up doors are versatile and can be fitted to various types of cabinets. However, precise installation is essential to ensure proper alignment and smooth, reliable operation of this system. See an example below of a wall cabinet using the Blum AVENTOS hinge system.
Recessed cabinets with mirror doors (shaver cabinets)
Recessed wall cabinets are designed to be built directly into the supporting wall or frame, making them a popular choice in bathrooms due to their compact design and space-saving functionality. These cabinets often feature mirrored panels on the doors, maximizing both practicality and aesthetics.
Precise measurements and expert craftsmanship are essential during manufacturing and installation to ensure a perfect fit within the wall cavity, creating a seamless and integrated look. As seen below, this type of cabinet is most easily installed in new builds or complete room renovations.
Corner wall cabinets
Corner wall units function similarly to standard wall cabinets but are specifically designed to fit into corners, making them ideal for maximizing storage in various settings. These cabinets are versatile and can be used in kitchens, bathrooms, or any space where corner storage is needed.
The key to constructing high-quality corner wall cabinets lies in precise measurements and expert craftsmanship, ensuring a seamless fit and optimal use of corner spaces.
Wall corner cabinets are similar to other types of corner cabinets, see additional information on building corner cabinets here.
Hung wardrobe, vanity and entertainment units
Wall units can be utilised in a variety of spaces, such as vanities, entertainment areas, and wardrobes. They maximise storage by eliminating the plinth area and add a more modern aesthetic to the design.
Proper hardware and fixings are essential during installation to ensure both longevity and safety. Using this design in an area such as a wardrobe will also maximise storage space by allowing storage below the cabinets.
Challenges when building and installing wall cabinets
When considering how to build a wall cabinet, some key issues come up consistently; we’ve covered them below.
Leveling issues
Precision is crucial when levelling wall cabinets, as even slight slopes can cause door misalignment and tilting shelves. Many countries have building standards that regulate the accuracy of levelling for wall cabinets, though achieving the highest level of precision is critical for ensuring optimal performance.
Tools like leveling devices and cabinet stands are invaluable for precise installation. For instance, the Leica Lino laser level range projects a perfectly leveled line across the room, providing installers with accurate guidance to achieve a seamless and level run of wall cabinets.
See the Leica Lino laser range here
Plumb or square walls
The majority of walls are neither plumb nor square. To address this, fins or packers can be used during installation.
Fins are extended cabinet sides that overlap the back of a cabinet and can be machined to fit against an uneven or sloped wall.
Packers, often using recycled materials, are used to bring the cabinet to plumb or square against the wall. When packing is necessary, panels can be fitted to the wall and fixed to the cabinet to conceal any gaps, creating a seamless appearance and hiding imperfections.
Fixing to various types of walls
Standard timber screws are suitable for securing wall cabinets to timber frames, while self-tapping screws are used for steel frames. For masonry walls, either anchors or masonry screws are recommended.
Installers must have a thorough understanding of the wall structure and the correct installation techniques. Improper installation can compromise a cabinet’s longevity and, more importantly, pose safety risks for the customer.
How PolyBoard can help
PolyBoard is a professional cabinet design software that simplifies the creation of wall cabinets. It enables users to generate precise plans, cutting lists, and seamless integration with machining processes.
With PolyBoard, you can design custom cabinets tailored to your specific manufacturing methods and easily incorporate the appropriate hardware for production. The software includes a large range of pre-configured hardware, including the AVENTOS system featured here, plus lots of other popular lift, drawer and hinge systems.
Utilising PolyBoard streamlines the entire process from design to construction, ensuring accuracy and giving you confidence throughout your joinery projects.
Please contact us here to book a demo.
You can also download and test PolyBoard yourself, all design features are available in the free version.
