Cabinet orders get complicated when measurements are off. Here's the process we recommend to every new account before they place their first order.
Measurement errors are the most expensive mistake in a cabinet project. An off measurement discovered after delivery means reordering, re-shipping, and re-scheduling install — all avoidable with the right process up front.
Tools You Need
- 25-foot tape measure (not a 12-footer)
- Laser level or 4-foot level
- Pencil and graph paper, or a tablet with a layout app
- Camera (phone is fine)
What to Measure
Measurement errors are the most expensive mistake in a cabinet project. An off measurement discovered after delivery means reordering, re-shipping, and re-scheduling install — all avoidable.
Overall room dimensions: Measure the length of each wall at counter height (36") and again at upper cabinet height (54"). Walls aren't always plumb — the measurement may differ by 1/4" or more.
Window and door locations: Measure from each corner to the edge of the window or door rough opening, and note the width. This determines where wall cabinet runs can and can't go.
Ceiling height: Measure in at least three spots per wall. Ceilings aren't always level, especially in older homes.
Plumbing and electrical rough-in locations: Mark where the sink drain, dishwasher supply, and receptacles hit the back wall. These affect base cabinet selection.
Soffit dimensions (if applicable): Width, height, and distance from the wall. Soffits constrain upper cabinet height.
The 1/8" Rule
Cabinet runs are specified in 3" increments (9", 12", 15"... 36"). When your measured wall comes in between sizes, you'll fill the gap with filler strips — not by rounding up to the next cabinet size. Measure to the nearest 1/8" and let the layout handle the math.
Photograph Everything
Take photos of each wall, each corner, and all rough-ins. Photos catch things the tape misses — an outlet that's 6" off center, a window that's not plumb, a soffit that steps down partway through.
When you submit your order, we review the layout and flag anything that looks like it won't work before we build.
Dogwood Cabinets
Helping trade professionals across the Southeast spec and order cabinetry without the friction.
