The DIY Enthusiast’s Guide to RTA Cabinets: 5 Must-Know Tips for a Smooth Installation

RTA cabinets meaning Ready-to-Assemble cabinets are a game changer for DIYers looking to upgrade their kitchens or bathrooms without spending a fortune.  Coming in a flat box, all you need to do is assemble. Making them a budget-friendly and stylish choice for home improvement.

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But before you grab your toolbox, there are a few things you need to know.  A little prep goes a long way. In this guide, we’ll walk you through five must-know tips to help you choose, assemble, and install your RTA cabinets like a pro.

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1. Measure Twice, Buy Once

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Before ordering your RTA cabinets, measure your space carefully. 

Even a small mistake can lead to cabinets that don’t fit.

Making installation a headache.

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How to Measure Like a Pro

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• Use a tape measure
  To get the width, height, and depth of your space.
  
  
• Check for obstacles
  Like outlets, pipes, or uneven walls that might affect placement.

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Plan Your Layout with a Free Online Designer

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A great way to visualize your space before buying cabinets is to use a free online design tool.  These tools help you create a digital model of your kitchen or bathroom, so you can see exactly how your cabinets will fit before making a purchase.

Some tools even let you drag and drop cabinets into place. So you don’t waste money on the wrong size or layout.

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Here is a free design tool to try:

1. IKEA Kitchen Planner
   - A user-friendly tool that allows you to plan your kitchen layout using IKEA’s RTA cabinet sizes.
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Spending a little time planning now can save you from costly mistakes later.

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2. Choose the Right Materials for Long-Lasting Cabinets

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Not all RTA cabinets are made the same. The materials you choose will determine how durable and sturdy your cabinets will be. Cheap materials may seem like a bargain, but they can lead to warping, peeling, or even breaking over time.

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Best Materials for RTA Cabinets

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• Plywood 
  
  • The gold standard for cabinet construction 
  • Strong, lightweight, and resistant to moisture
  • Making it perfect for kitchens and bathrooms
    
    
• MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard)
  
  • A smooth and affordable option
  • Great for painted cabinets
  • Not as moisture-resistant as plywood but still durable.
    
    
• Particleboard 
  
  • Cheapest option 
  • Also the least durable 
  • Can swell when exposed to moisture

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What to Look for in High-Quality RTA Cabinets

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• Solid wood doors
  These add strength and a premium look.
  
  
• Soft-close hinges
  Prevents slamming and extends the life of the cabinet.
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Pro Tip:

If you want cabinets that will last for years, invest in plywood construction with solid wood doors. It’s worth the extra cost to avoid replacements down the road! 

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3. Get the Right Tools Before You Start

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Once your RTA cabinets arrive, it’s tempting to jump right into assembly. 

But wait … 

Take a moment to gather the right tools and supplies.  Having everything ready will save time, prevent frustration, and help you put your cabinets together the right way.

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Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools for RTA Cabinet Assembly

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• Screwdriver or Power Drill
• Rubber Mallet
• Clamps
• Level
• Measuring Tape
• Stud Finder

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Supplies You Might Not Expect to Need
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• Wood Glue
  Helps reinforce joints for extra strength.
  
  
• Painter’s Tape
  Great for marking cabinet placements before installing.
  
  
• Felt Pads
  Protects your floors from scratches when moving cabinets.
  
  
• Touch-Up Marker
  Covers small scratches or nicks in the cabinet finish.
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Taking the time to set up properly will make the next step assembly much easier.

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4. Follow the Instructions (Yes, Really!)

Skipping the instructions is a recipe for frustration. Each brand has its own assembly method, and even small details, like which screws go where, can make a big difference in the final result.

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How to Make Assembly Easier

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• Lay out all the pieces
  Before starting to make sure nothing is missing.
  
  
• Read through the instructions
  First to get a clear idea of each step.
  
  
• Follow the order listed
  Some parts need to be installed before others for a proper fit.
  
  
• Take your time
  Rushing can lead to mistakes that are hard to fix later.
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A little patience goes a long way in making sure your cabinets turn out sturdy and professional-looking.

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5. Secure and Adjust for a Professional Finish

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Anchor Your Cabinets for Stability

Before securing your cabinets, make sure they are level. Use shims if needed. Once everything is in place, anchor base cabinets to wall studs for stability. Skipping this step can lead to cabinets shifting over time, which can cause misalignment and stress on the structure.

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Fine-Tune the Fit

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Cabinet doors and drawers might need some adjusting after installation. Double-check the alignment. Tweak the hinges if doors don’t close evenly. Most RTA cabinets come with adjustable hinges, so small turns of a screwdriver can make a big difference. If you’re installing multiple cabinets side by side, secure them together at the frame for a seamless look.

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Add the Final Touches

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Once everything is installed, wipe down the cabinets to remove dust and fingerprints. Finally, step back and check everything sometimes, small adjustments are all it takes to make your cabinets look perfect. Now, you’re ready to enjoy your brand-new RTA cabinets!

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