How To Calculate Linear Feet For Cabinets

How to Calculate Linear Feet for Cabinets: A Comprehensive Guide

Planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel? Understanding how to calculate linear feet for cabinets is crucial for accurate budgeting and efficient space planning. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you get the right amount of cabinetry for your needs.

What are Linear Feet?

Linear feet measure the length of a straight line, specifically 12 inches or one foot. When calculating linear feet for cabinets, you're essentially measuring the total length of your cabinet runs along the wall, ignoring depth and height.

How to Calculate Linear Feet for Cabinets: A Step-by-Step Process

Calculating linear feet isn't rocket science, but accuracy is key. Here's a breakdown:

1. Measure Each Cabinet Run

• Identify each continuous section of cabinets: This is a crucial first step. A cabinet run is a continuous line of cabinets along a wall, without interruptions.
• Use a measuring tape: Measure the length of each run in inches. Be precise!
• Record your measurements: Keep a written record of each run's length in inches.

2. Convert Inches to Feet

• Divide by 12: To convert inches to feet, divide the total inches of each run by 12. For example, a 72-inch run is 72/12 = 6 linear feet.

3. Account for Corners and Gaps

• Measure around corners: If your cabinet runs extend around corners, carefully measure the total length along the outside of the cabinets.
• Consider gaps between cabinets: Don't forget to factor in any gaps or spaces between individual cabinets. These spaces still count toward your linear foot total.

4. Add up the Linear Feet

• Sum all the measurements: Once you've converted all the inch measurements to linear feet and accounted for corners and gaps, add up all the linear feet for each cabinet run. This final number represents your total linear feet requirement.

5. Account for Cabinet Types

• Base Cabinets: Measure the base cabinet runs separately.
• Wall Cabinets: Measure wall cabinet runs separately as well. This allows for more accurate budgeting and planning as these often have different pricing.
• Specialty Cabinets: Corner cabinets, pantry cabinets, and other specialty units may have unique pricing considerations and might need to be calculated separately depending on your supplier.

Example Calculation

Let's say you have two cabinet runs:

• Run 1: 96 inches (96/12 = 8 linear feet)
• Run 2: 48 inches (48/12 = 4 linear feet)

Your total linear footage would be 8 + 4 = 12 linear feet.

Tips for Accurate Measurement

• Use a level: Ensure your measurements are accurate by using a level to ensure the tape measure is parallel to the wall.
• Double-check your measurements: Always double-check your measurements to avoid costly errors.
• Consult a professional: If you're unsure about any aspect of the calculation, consult a kitchen designer or cabinet installer.

Beyond Linear Feet: Important Considerations

While linear feet are a crucial starting point, remember other factors influence cabinet costs. These include:

• Cabinet materials: Wood species, finishes, and construction methods significantly affect price.
• Cabinet features: Drawers, doors, hardware, and internal features all add to the overall cost.
• Installation costs: Labor costs can be significant, so factor these into your budget.

By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to accurately calculate linear feet for your cabinetry project. Remember, precision and careful planning are key to a successful kitchen or bathroom remodel.