Giving your bathroom a refresh with a new bathroom cabinet? Installing a tallboy cabinet yourself can be a rewarding DIY project. It is a space-saving bathroom storage solution that adds extra storage space for your toiletries and towels and can improve the overall look of your bathroom. While installing tall storage units requires some planning and following the proper steps, with a little effort you can enjoy the satisfaction of mounting your own cabinet and saving on the cost of professional installation.
What is a Tall Boy Cabinet/ Tall Storage Unit
Tallboy sounds strange, but just a bathroom cabinet. Such tall bathroom cabinets are mounted on the wall, utilizing vertical spaces, helping you save space in a small bathroom. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes, allowing you to choose the one that fits best according to your bathroom aesthetic and functional requirements. Available in wall-hung and freestanding vanity unit styles, they can be great storage solution for a small bathroom.
Planning The Tallboy Cabinet Installation
Planning is crucial when installing a tallboy cabinet. Here, we have some essential tips to help you plan the installation effectively.
- It is important to choose the right spot for the tallboy cabinet installation. This will ensure the cabinet's accessibility without obstructing walkways or other bathroom fixtures. Think about any existing plumbing or electrical lines passing through the wall. Once decided, measure the space for the proper cabinet fitting.
- Tallboy cabinets can easily become top-heavy when fully loaded with bathroom essentials. Therefore, you should use appropriate wall anchors to secure the cabinet to the wall. Your cabinet should be leveled during the installation to prevent the door from swinging open and closing on its own.
- When planning, you will also need to consider the direction of the door swing, as it should not interfere with other bathroom fixtures or movement in the bathroom.
- Adequate ventilation is paramount to keep the cabinet in good condition. Therefore, consider installing an extractor fan near the unit to prevent moist build-up.
DIY Tallboy Storage Unit Installation Process
While it is always a good idea to hire a professional for the installation of bathroom furniture, most tall storage units are simple to install, making them a great choice for DIY enthusiasts.
Here’s a step-by-step process that you will need to follow
Step 1: Tools & Materials
- Electric Drill with appropriate drill bits
- Screwdriver (Both Phillips and flathead)
- Level
- Stud finder
- Pencil
- Tape measure
- Safety glasses
- Utility knife
- Caulk if required
- Cleaning cloths
- Mounting hardware
Step 2: Prepare the Installation Area
The area where you want to install a bathroom cabinet should be clean and dry. Remove any debris or clutter there. You may also use a drop cloth to protect the floor from scratches.
Step 3: Remove Old Cabinet (if applicable)
Already have an old bathroom cabinet? You will need to remove it first.
- Turning off the water supply is almost always the first step before the installation of the bathroom cabinet. You can do so by locating the shut-off valve under the sink and turning it clockwise to stop the water flow.
- Once the water supply is turned off, you can now disconnect the plumbing lines from the cabinet. Unscrew the drainpipe and supply lines
- Locate and remove all screws or fasteners securing the cabinet to the wall.
- Simple lift and remove the old cabinet from the wall. You may need help from someone to help you with the larger and heavier cabinets.
Step 4: Locate and Mark Studs
Use a stud finder to locate the studs behind the planned installation area. Mark their positions on the wall with a pencil. Studs provide a strong foundation for mounting the cabinet and are available within the wall.
Step 5: Install Wall Cleat (if needed)
Wall cleat provides additional support benefits for the heavier bathroom tallboy cabinets. This horizontal board mounted on the wall and behind the cabinet evenly distributes the weight. Ensure that the wall cleats are securely fastened to the wall studs.
Step 6: Mount the Tallboy Cabinet
Now, lift the tallboy storage unit and position it against the wall, aligning it to the spot where you want to install it. The cabinet should be aligned with the marked stud location or installed wall cleat (if you are using it). Use the level to ensure the cabinet is perfectly horizontal in position.
Step 7: Secure the Cabinet
Once positioned correctly, you can use provided mounting hardware (screws and anchors) to securely fasten the cabinet to the wall studs and cleat. It is crucial to have pilot holes to prevent the wood from splitting. Tighten the screws but don't tighten it.
Step 8: Attach Doors, Drawers, and Hardware
Now it's time to install the tallboy cabinet doors, drawers, and knobs or handles with the cabinet. It may also include the sink (for the vanity cabinet). Always ensure proper alignment and functionality of the installed components.
Step 9: Adjust and Level the Tallboy Storage Unit
If your tallboy cabinet comes with adjustable shelves, then position the shelves at the desired height and secure them using the shelf support or bracket (usually provided with the cabinet). Now, double-check the cabinet’s level using a level-up tool. Sometimes, adjustments are necessary, so loosen or tighten the mounting screws slightly until the cabinet is perfectly leveled.
Safety Tips for Tallboy Cabinet Installation
- Always use safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris during the drilling,
- You should also wear protective glasses to avoid cuts or injuries to your hands when using tools and sharp materials.
- Before you start the work, ensure the installation area is free of clutter to reduce tripping hazards. You may also use a drop cloth to protect the bathroom floor and fixtures from scratches and damage.
- Tallboy cabinet can be heavier to lift. Therefore, there should be a second person available to help you lift the cabinet to the position.
- Once installed, you should evaluate the stability of the cabinet. Gently apply the pressure to the cabinet to test its stability.
Final Thoughts
Tall storage units have become an essential part of the small bathroom due to their functionality and aesthetics. Simply follow the steps outlined in this guide to DIY installation of bathroom cabinets and you will be on your way to creating a highly functional, aesthetically pleasing, and organized bathroom space.
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