RTA Kitchen Cabinets Installation: Complete Guide for a Smooth Setup

Want to transform your kitchen without paying thousands for installation? RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) kitchen cabinets make that possible, giving you high-end style without breaking the bank.

But while they’re designed for easy assembly, many homeowners get frustrated when parts don’t align, doors won’t close properly, or measurements go off by an inch. A slight mistake can turn your dream kitchen into a stressful project.

The good news? Installing RTA cabinets is easy if you follow the proper steps. In this guide, we’ll break down the complete guide for a smooth RTA kitchen cabinet installation.

Understanding RTA Kitchen Cabinets

RTA stands for ready-to-assemble, meaning furniture pieces arrive at your home in flat-packed boxes for installation. All cabinet components are pre-cut, pre-drilled, and ready to use for installation. 

RTA cabinets are designed for easy shipping and DIY assembly so that you can save significantly on labor costs. 

Also, many RTA cabinet brands offer solid wood construction, soft-close drawers, and customizable finishes, giving your kitchen a high-end look at an affordable price.

How to Install RTA Cabinets in Your Kitchen

The biggest question that often comes to mind is: How to install RTA cabinets? Most people think that installing RTA kitchen cabinets needs expertise. That’s why most homeowners don’t opt for RTA cabinets. 

However, installing RTA cabinets is very easy, especially when you follow the correct sequence. Below are the essential steps to help you install your RTA cabinets like a pro and achieve that seamless, custom-built look in your kitchen.

Step 1: Unbox and Inspect Your Cabinets

Start by carefully unboxing each cabinet, as every component is crucial for perfect installation. Make sure that all pieces, including panels, hardware, hinges, and screws, are included in the flat-packed box you received. If anything’s missing or damaged, contact your supplier before starting assembly.

Lay out the pieces for each cabinet separately. Labeling or grouping them can help you avoid losing any parts and prevent confusion later.

Step 2: Measure and Mark Your Kitchen Layout

Proper measurements are the foundation of a perfect RTA cabinet installation. 

That’s why you should:

• Use a measuring tape and level to mark your cabinet layout on the wall.
• Identify where your base cabinets, wall cabinets, appliances, and sink will go.
• Mark the studs using a stud finder — this is where you’ll anchor your cabinets for stability.
  

Also, make sure the cabinets are correctly aligned with your base units and ceiling by double-checking the height of your wall cabinets. This will help you avoid misalignment issues during cabinet installation.

Step 3: Assemble the Cabinets

After taking proper measurements, the next step is to assemble the cabinet pieces. For this, 

1. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely.
2. Start with the base cabinets before moving on to the wall cabinets.
3. Use wood glue along the joints (if recommended) for extra strength.
4. Tighten screws gently; overtightening can strip the holes or warp the panels.
   

RTA cabinets usually use cam locks, dowels, or screws for assembly, making the installation process very easy, even for beginners.

Step 4: Install Base Cabinets

When installing, it is recommended to start with the base cabinets. These provide the foundation for your kitchen layout.

1. Locate the highest point on your floor (most floors aren’t perfectly level). Use that point to establish your baseline for all cabinets.
2. Position the first cabinet in a corner.
3. Use shims to ensure it’s perfectly level both side-to-side and front-to-back.
4. Secure it to the wall studs using screws through the back rail.
   

Once the first cabinet is perfectly in place, the rest will fall into place easily. Continue installing the remaining base cabinets while checking for level and parallel alignment.

Step 5: Mount the Wall Cabinets

Wall cabinets are lighter and should go up before the countertop is installed.

1. Mark a horizontal line on the wall where the bottom of the cabinets will sit (usually 18 inches above the countertop).
2. Screw a temporary ledger board along that line to support the cabinets during installation.
3. Starting from a corner, lift each cabinet into place and screw it securely into the wall studs.
4. Double-check alignment after each cabinet to maintain a seamless look.
   

Once all cabinets are installed, remove the ledger board and fill any screw holes.

Step 6: Add Doors, Drawers, and Hardware

Once cabinet frames are installed, it’s time to finish the final attachments.

• Attach doors and drawer fronts using pre-drilled hinge holes.
• Adjust hinges for smooth opening and closing.
• Install handles and knobs, carefully measuring for uniform placement.
  

Soft-close hinges and drawer slides add a touch of luxury and also prevent slamming. It’s always recommended to opt for soft-close drawers for a smoother experience.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Now that cabinets are installed, it’s time to inspect your work:

• Check for any visible gaps in between the cabinets and fill them with trim or caulk if any are found.
• Wipe down all surfaces to remove dust.
• If you’re painting or staining, apply the finish after installation to avoid scratches.
  

Once complete, install your countertops and connect the plumbing, and your kitchen will be perfectly set up without needing any professional help.

Final Thoughts

Installing RTA kitchen cabinets is one of the most rewarding DIY projects you can take on. You get to save money, customize your kitchen’s look, and gain the satisfaction of building something yourself. 

With careful planning, accurate measurements, and attention to detail, your RTA cabinet installation will look just as good as a professional job — at a fraction of the cost.

If you are considering having RTA cabinets for your kitchen, FastTrack Cabinets becomes your reliable supply partner. Our RTA kitchen cabinets are built to last and feature premium styles to give your kitchen an elegant look.

Explore our vast collection of RTA kitchen cabinets to affordably style your kitchen.

Related: How to Fix Common Kitchen Cabinet Installation Problems