Are you thinking about how far should your microwave stick out from cabinets? Well, here I have a complete guide for you. So, without any further delay, let’s get straight to the point.
The upper kitchen cabinets should install about 12-inch-deep where the microwave is, and over-the-range microwaves are generally 15-16 inches deep. So, the question here arises, how far should your microwave stick out from cabinets?
The handle and the door of the oven should stick out from cabinets at least 5 inches.
How deep should be a microwave cabinet?
Further microwave cabinets should be at least 15-18 inches deep. The ideal width for these cabinets is 30 inches and 12-15 inches high.
However, the standard height between the upper and lower cabinet is 12 inches, your stove and base cabinet should have a space of 30 inches.
Besides, kitchen appliances, specifically microwaves, come in different sizes, so it is essential to check the specifications of your machine.
Should the bottom of the microwave be flush with cabinets?
The ideally installed microwave should be flush with cabinets. But, if you don’t have deeper than ordinary cabinets, the chances are high that your microwave will stick out of the cabinet.
As far as over-the-range microwaves are concerned, they can be problematic if your cabinets are not as deep as the microwave. The pre-drilled holes can make you modify your cabinets for proper installation.
How to Prepare for Microwave Installation? (2 step Guide)
Step 1
Firstly, measure the dimension of your microwave and the extent it is currently placed in with a measuring tape.
Secondly, if your microwave is sticking out from the cabinet, check how far it is.
Step 2
Now record the measurement from the range top to the cabinet above. It should be at least 30 inches high from your stove. Moreover, if you have a gas stove, don’t forget to check if your microwave is compatible.
DIY Guide to Install an over-the-range microwave to make it stick out perfectly
Here is the material that you would require to install the microwave perfectly.
- Over-the-range microwave
- Toggle Bolts
- Painters Tape
- Wood Blocks
- Drop Cloth
Moreover, it would be best if you also had some tools for installation, which are;
- Tape measure
- Drill machine
- Screwdriver bits
- Stud finder
- Woodboring bites drill
- Level
- Work gloves
- Eye protection
Step 1: Unboxing
Unbox your new microwave and keep all the accessories aside. Keep the instruction manual closer to you.
Step 2: Remove the Mounting Bracket
You can spot the mounting bracket at the back of your microwave, remove it using a drill.
Step3: Mark the Studs
If the studs are not already marked in the opening cabinet, you can mark them using a stud finder. At the top and bottom, mark the opening center.
Step 4: Place the Wall Template
The instruction manual of over-the-range microwave oven includes a template to help the user position the mounting brackets.
Use this pattern to mark the screw holes. You can simply line up the template on the wall’s centerline by using the painter’s tape.
Make sure the template is leveled. Now mark the screw holes keeping the stud location marked earlier in view.
Step 5: Drill
Now remove the template and start drilling the holes. Use toggle bolts on the places with no studs. The toggles can easily secure the bolts as they provide perfect grip in drywalls.
Moreover, use an appropriate woodboring drill bit to drill the toggle bolt holes.
Step 6: Position the Top Template
On the underside of the cabinet, position the template using the painter’s tape. Mark the locations for screw holes.
Step 7: Pilot Hole Drilling
At this point, you need to drill the pilot holes according to the marking. Drill up through the bottom of the cabinet.
Step 8: Drill Through the Base of the Cabinet
From the inner side of the cabinet, drill down the pilot holes. In order to prevent the splitting on the inner surface of the cabinet, it is best to use the pilot holes to drill through the finished interior.
Step 9: Install the Bracket
Now install the mounting bracket on the prepared wall. You can toggle bolts in the holes that are not in line with the stud.
For installing the toggle bolts, thread the bolts crossing the bracket and then twist the toggles.
Installation of The Over-The-Range Microwave Oven
- The proper installation would determine how far your microwave should stick out from cabinets.
- Bring into line the fan with the exhaust duct. Subsequently, you might need to remove the screws from the fan plate and rotate the fan. Now you can reattach the plate.
- Now install the vent damper of the microwave.
- Next, cut and place the wood filler blocks to fill the space between the over-the-range oven and bottom cabinet. They will keep your cabinets safe from any possible damage.
- Pull the power cord of the microwave through the hole.
- Now you have to mount the microwave by locking the back of the unit through the mounting bracket. Secure it using the mounting screws on the upper cabinet.
- Now you can test if your unit is working correctly.
Wrapping it Up
By the end of this guide, now you will know how far should your microwave stick out from cabinets? I hope this guide was helpful for you. Here I will include a quick flashback for you.
- In brief, microwave cabinets should be at least 15-18 inches deep.
- The ideal width for these cabinets is 30 inches and 12-15 inches high.
- Your stove and base cabinet should have a space of 30 inches.
- Moreover, the handle and the oven door should stick out from cabinets at least 5 inches.
To conclude, that is all from me for now. If you are not a Pro and are facing trouble as this might be your first time with installation, I recommend seeking professional help. Furthermore, I will get back to you soon with another informational article to ease your life and guide you in the best way possible.
Comment below and give your feedback how did you go with the information in this article.
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Pictures of some common scenarios would make this info more helpful.