Cabinet Sizing Question

[crokett]

So I tried again at putting the built-in into the downstairs bath and now the friggin thing is too wide. Apparently 1/2" under the width of the finished space is too tight. The guys who did the framing were a little off on plumb walls. On the other hand they work cheap.

So.... is there a rule of thumb on how much smaller to make them? I am going to make it 1/2" narrower and will just have to shim when I install it. In anticipation of something like this happening, I built it with screws so can disassemble it with not a lot of fuss, it will just be a PITA.

[LCHIEN]

So I tried again at putting the built-in into the downstairs bath and now the friggin thing is too wide. Apparently 1/2" under the width of the finished space is too tight. The guys who did the framing were a little off on plumb walls. On the other hand they work cheap.

So.... is there a rule of thumb on how much smaller to make them? I am going to make it 1/2" narrower and will just have to shim when I install it. In anticipation of something like this happening, I built it with screws so can disassemble it with not a lot of fuss, it will just be a PITA.

on things to fit into homes, it's always best to measure all four points for width as well as the middle and either build wonky to match or build square and tight to the smallest dimension.

[JimD]

I agree with Loring. The framers who built our house were also quick but sloppy and it is reckless to try and assume it could not be more than ? out of plumb. I usually make the cabinet square and use a filler piece to fill in the gap if it is on the front.

Jim

[drumpriest]

Heck, I measure at more than 4 points. I sample every 12" or so, you never know how a wall will act, especially in old homes. My previous one was 106 years old, and all lath and plaster walls. I figure you can never measure too much.

[crokett]

Thanks fellas. Nobody but me to blame though.

I did the framing and I know it isn't more than about 1/8" out in any one spot. I know this because I took one wall apart last month and reframed in an effort to try and avoid this.

I built the carcass with screws in part anticipating something like this so I will take off one side, trim the shelves and back and reattach the side.