Extending Kitchen Cabinets To The Ceiling: A Personal Experience
As someone who loves to cook and entertain, my kitchen is one of my favorite rooms in my house. However, I always felt like something was missing. The cabinets above my countertops didn’t quite reach the ceiling, leaving a gap that collected dust and made the room feel unfinished. So, I decided to take on the project of extending my kitchen cabinets to the ceiling. Here’s what I learned:
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Measure Your Cabinets
The first step is to measure the height and width of your existing cabinets. This will help you determine how much additional wood you will need to purchase to extend the cabinets.
2. Purchase Additional Wood
You will need to purchase additional wood that matches the type and finish of your existing cabinets. Make sure to measure the amount of wood you need accurately, as you don’t want to end up with too little or too much.
3. Cut Wood to Size
Using a saw, cut the additional wood to the appropriate size for your cabinets. Make sure to wear appropriate safety gear, and take your time to ensure a precise cut.
4. Sand and Stain/Paint
Once the wood is cut, sand it down to ensure a smooth surface. Then, stain or paint the wood to match your existing cabinets. This will help the extended cabinets blend seamlessly with the rest of your kitchen.
5. Install the Wood
With the additional wood cut, stained, and ready to go, it’s time to install it onto the top of your existing cabinets. Use wood screws and adhesive to secure the wood to the top of the cabinets.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
1. Choose a finish that matches your existing cabinets to create a cohesive look.
2. Consider adding glass doors to the new cabinets to showcase your dishes and glassware.
3. Install under-cabinet lighting to illuminate the space between the ceiling and cabinets.
4. Use the extended cabinets to store infrequently used items, such as holiday dishes or entertaining platters.
5. Add decorative molding to the top of the extended cabinets for a finished look.
6. Consider removing the existing cabinets altogether and installing floor-to-ceiling cabinetry for a dramatic effect.
7. Use the extended cabinets to create a built-in wine rack or bar area.
8. Add decorative wallpaper or tile to the back of the cabinets for a pop of color or texture.
9. Consider extending cabinets in other areas of your home, such as a home office or laundry room.
10. Hire a professional if you’re not comfortable with DIY projects.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Creates a polished, finished look in your kitchen.
- Provides additional storage space.
- Can be a relatively inexpensive way to update your kitchen.
Cons:
- Requires DIY skills or hiring a professional.
- May not be cost-effective if you need to purchase a significant amount of additional wood.
- May not be suitable for all kitchen styles.
My Personal Review and Suggestion
Overall, extending my kitchen cabinets to the ceiling was a worthwhile project. Not only did it provide additional storage space, but it also gave my kitchen a more polished and finished look. I would highly recommend this project to anyone looking to update their kitchen on a budget.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: How long does it take to extend kitchen cabinets to the ceiling?
A: The amount of time it takes to complete this project will depend on your DIY skills and the size of your kitchen. It could take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
Q: Can I extend kitchen cabinets to the ceiling if they are already installed?
A: Yes, but it will require removing the cabinets from the wall, extending them, and then reinstalling them. This can be a more complex and time-consuming project than extending cabinets that have not yet been installed.
Q: Will extending my kitchen cabinets to the ceiling increase the value of my home?
A: While this project can improve the appearance and functionality of your kitchen, it may not necessarily increase the value of your home. However, it could make your home more appealing to potential buyers if you decide to sell in the future.