Adding Height with Crown Molding: How To Add Height To Existing Kitchen Cabinets
Crown molding is a decorative trim that can be used to add height to kitchen cabinets, creating a more elegant and sophisticated look. It is an excellent option for those who want to enhance their kitchen’s aesthetic appeal without undergoing major renovations.
Crown Molding Benefits and Limitations, How to add height to existing kitchen cabinets
Crown molding offers several benefits, including enhancing the visual appeal of your kitchen, concealing imperfections in the cabinets, and adding a touch of elegance. However, it also has some limitations. Crown molding can be challenging to install, requiring precision and attention to detail. Additionally, it might not be suitable for all kitchen styles, and it can be more expensive than other options for adding height.
Installing Crown Molding
Installing crown molding requires careful planning and execution. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Measuring and Cutting
- Measure the length of each cabinet section where you want to install the crown molding.
- Add a few inches to the measurement to account for cuts and waste.
- Mark the measurements on the molding using a pencil.
- Cut the molding to size using a miter saw, ensuring precise angles for clean corners.
Attaching the Molding
- Apply a bead of construction adhesive to the back of the molding, using a caulk gun.
- Position the molding on the top of the cabinets, ensuring it is level and flush.
- Use finishing nails or brads to secure the molding to the cabinets.
- Apply wood filler to cover any nail holes or gaps.
- Sand the wood filler smooth and prime the molding before painting.
Crown Molding Styles
Crown molding comes in various styles, each adding a unique touch to your kitchen. Here are some popular options:
Simple and Traditional
A simple crown molding with a subtle profile adds a touch of elegance without overwhelming the kitchen’s design. This style is suitable for traditional and contemporary kitchens.
Ornate and Decorative
Ornate crown molding features intricate details and carvings, adding a dramatic and luxurious feel to the kitchen. This style is ideal for kitchens with a formal or Victorian aesthetic.
Modern and Minimalist
Modern crown molding features clean lines and simple profiles, complementing minimalist kitchens. It adds a touch of sophistication without being overly ornate.
Custom-Made
For a truly unique look, consider custom-made crown molding that matches your kitchen’s specific design elements. This allows for complete customization and a truly personalized touch.
Adding Height with Cabinet Boxes
Extending your existing cabinet boxes is a popular method for increasing kitchen cabinet height. It involves adding a new section to the top of the existing cabinets, essentially creating a taller box. This technique allows for more storage space without the need for completely replacing the cabinets.
Cutting and Attaching Cabinet Box Extensions
This section provides detailed instructions on how to cut, attach, and finish the new cabinet box extensions.
When extending cabinet boxes, it’s important to choose materials that match the existing cabinets for a seamless look. Plywood is a common choice for cabinet box extensions, offering both strength and affordability.
The process of cutting and attaching cabinet box extensions can be summarized in the following steps:
- Measure the Existing Cabinet Boxes: Carefully measure the width and depth of your existing cabinet boxes. This will determine the dimensions of the extension pieces.
- Cut the Extension Pieces: Using a circular saw or table saw, cut the plywood to the desired dimensions for the extension pieces. Ensure the cuts are precise for a clean and accurate fit.
- Attach the Extensions: Secure the extension pieces to the top of the existing cabinet boxes using wood glue and screws. Ensure the screws are long enough to penetrate both the extension and the existing cabinet box.
- Finish the Extensions: Once the extensions are attached, apply wood filler to any gaps or screw holes. Sand the surface smooth, and then paint or stain the extensions to match the existing cabinets.
Choosing Materials and Hardware
Choosing the right materials and hardware is crucial for a successful cabinet box extension project.
- Plywood: Choose a high-quality plywood for the extensions, preferably with a moisture-resistant core, as kitchens are prone to humidity.
- Screws: Use screws that are long enough to penetrate both the extension and the existing cabinet box. Consider using countersinking screws to create a flush finish.
- Wood Glue: Use a high-quality wood glue to bond the extension pieces to the existing cabinet boxes.
- Wood Filler: Apply wood filler to any gaps or screw holes before sanding and finishing the extensions.
- Paint or Stain: Choose a paint or stain that matches the existing cabinets to ensure a seamless look.
Remember to wear safety glasses and ear protection when working with power tools.
Adding Height with Cabinet Doors
Replacing your existing cabinet doors with taller ones can be a visually effective way to create the illusion of higher cabinets, adding a touch of elegance and spaciousness to your kitchen. This technique involves a simple yet impactful transformation, allowing you to achieve a dramatic change without extensive renovations.
Measuring and Ordering New Cabinet Doors
Measuring and ordering new cabinet doors that perfectly fit your existing cabinet boxes is crucial for a seamless installation. This process involves taking accurate measurements of your current cabinet doors and using them to order new doors that match the existing dimensions.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a successful measurement and ordering process:
- Measure the height and width of your existing cabinet doors. It’s important to measure multiple doors to ensure consistency and account for any variations in size. Use a tape measure to accurately capture the dimensions, noting both the height and width of each door.
- Consider the thickness of your existing cabinet doors. This is important when ordering new doors, as they should match the thickness of the existing ones to ensure a proper fit within the cabinet boxes.
- Order new cabinet doors based on your measurements. Many online retailers and local kitchen supply stores offer custom-made cabinet doors, allowing you to select the desired style, material, and finish.
- Provide accurate measurements to the supplier. Ensure that the measurements you provide are precise and reflect the actual dimensions of your existing cabinet doors. This will guarantee that the new doors fit seamlessly into your existing cabinet boxes.
Impact of Door Style and Material
The style and material of your cabinet doors can significantly influence the overall appearance of your kitchen. Choosing the right combination can create a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing design.
- Door Style: Cabinet doors come in various styles, each offering a unique visual appeal. For example, shaker doors with their simple, clean lines create a timeless and classic look, while raised panel doors add a touch of sophistication and elegance. Consider the existing style of your kitchen and choose doors that complement the overall design.
- Material: Cabinet doors are often made from various materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. For instance, wood doors offer durability and warmth, while laminate doors provide a more budget-friendly option with a variety of colors and finishes. Choose a material that aligns with your budget and desired aesthetic.
Remember, the key to achieving the illusion of higher cabinets lies in choosing taller doors that seamlessly blend with the existing cabinet boxes. This subtle yet impactful change can transform the appearance of your kitchen, creating a more spacious and inviting atmosphere.
How to add height to existing kitchen cabinets – Adding height to existing kitchen cabinets can be a great way to update your kitchen without a full remodel. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly approach, consider checking out craigslist nh kitchen cabinets for some pre-owned options. You might find some taller cabinets that you can use to create a more unified look in your kitchen.
Adding height to existing kitchen cabinets can be a great way to maximize storage space, but if you’re considering a complete overhaul, you might want to explore options like 7 star kitchen cabinets mississauga. They offer a wide range of styles and finishes to create a truly custom look, and their expert team can help you design a kitchen that meets your needs and budget.
If you’re sticking with your current cabinets, consider adding crown molding or a decorative valance to give them a taller appearance.
