Learn How to Easily Install Your Own Beadboard Cabinet Doors for a Fresh New Look

Installing beadboard cabinet doors is a great way to add a traditional look and detailed depth to your cabinetry. While the process may seem complicated and times consuming, the steps are in fact quite simple and easy to follow for a do-it-yourselfer, whatever your particular skill set. Plus, the cost of materials is fairly inexpensive. You may choose to paint the beadboard to match the cabinet’s finish, or you can leave it as it is for stained cabinets, giving you several options to customize your kitchen or bathroom storage spaces.

Before beginning, it is recommended that you wear safety goggles and rubber gloves to protect your eyes and hands. Taking the proper safety precautions up front will pay off later in avoiding potential hazards.

To get started, measure the cabinet doors where the beadboard will be installed, making both horizontal and vertical measurements. This will give you an idea of the amount of beadboard you will need and help you determine if any special cuts are needed. The beadboard usually comes in a pre-primed form, saving you some time and effort.

Remove the doors off their hinges and lay them flat on a work surface. Remove any cabinet handles with a screwdriver, and then mark the handle locations at the back of the doors. Clamp the doors to hold them steady while you work on them. Using sandpaper, sand the area where the beadboard will be attached, giving it a smooth surface for added adherence.

Now cut the beadboard. As measuring was previously done, you should be aware of how much beadboard is needed to cover the areas of the cabinet doors. Using a jigsaw, cut the beadboard so that it fits the area. It is recommended that each piece of beadboard you cut is measured individually to ensure proper fit, instead of using a standard length for every one.

Start applying adhesive to either the back of the beadboard or the inset of the door. Lay the beadboard atop the area, and press down firmly, moving it left and right slightly. After letting adhesive set, use caulk to fill any remaining gaps or cracks on the door, and then use sandpaper to smooth the area.

Now comes the painting. With a paintbrush, paint the doors to your desired color. If you prefer to go without paint, that’s a styling option as well.

Once the adhesive and paint are set, remove the clamps and reattach the doors to their hinges. Since the beadboard will likely add additional width, it is recommended to use longer screws and hinges. Carefully place the screws on the marked locations on the cabinet’s back side with a screwdriver.

And voila! Your beadboard cabinet doors are successfully installed. With an eye for detail and a bit of elbow grease, you can easily give your kitchen a timeless, classic style.