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How to Install Lazy Susan in Corner Cabinets

how do you install a lazy susan corner cabinet

I’m thrilled to share my knowledge on installing lazy susans in corner cabinets. These are a big help for kitchen storage. I’ve worked on many DIY cabinet projects. This guide will show you how to make the most of your kitchen space.

Corner cabinets can be tough to use in the kitchen. But, with a lazy susan installation, you can turn them into great storage spots. Let’s explore how rotating shelves and smart storage can change your kitchen.

First, let’s talk about what makes up a lazy susan. It has two plates with ball bearings in between. The top plate has holes at each corner. The bottom plate has a big and a small hole at each corner.

To install it, you’ll need certain tools. You’ll need a compass, pencil, ruler, 1/8″ drill bit, countersink drill bit, and a power drill. Also, get eight #8 screws that match your cabinet’s thickness.

Key Takeaways

  • Lazy susans maximize corner cabinet storage
  • Installation requires specific tools and hardware
  • The process involves precise measurements and drilling
  • Lazy susans improve kitchen organization and accessibility
  • Professional guidance can ensure a smooth installation

Understanding Lazy Susan Corner Cabinets

Lazy Susan corner cabinet

Lazy Susan cabinets are a big deal in kitchen storage. They turn cluttered corners into neat spots. Let’s look at how these rotating systems work and their benefits.

What is a Lazy Susan cabinet?

A Lazy Susan cabinet is a special corner unit with shelves that turn around. It usually has two trays that spin 360 degrees. This makes it great for tight kitchen spots. The lazy susan definition is all about making things easy to get to in hard spots.

Benefits of installing a Lazy Susan

There are many good things about putting in a Lazy Susan:

  • It uses corner space well
  • Makes things easier to get to
  • Helps keep cabinets tidy
  • Makes the kitchen look better organized

Types of Lazy Susan corner cabinets

There are different Lazy Susan designs for every kitchen:

TypeDescriptionBest For
RoundFull-circle rotating traysLarge corner spaces
Semi-circleHalf-moon shaped traysSmaller corners
TriangularCut trays fitting snugly in cornersTight spaces

When picking a Lazy Susan, measure your corner cabinet well. This makes sure it fits right and works great in your kitchen.

Preparing for Installation

Cabinet installation preparation tools

I’m getting ready for cabinet installation and it’s key to have all tools before starting. A detailed pre-installation checklist helps avoid delays and problems later. Let’s look at the main tools needed for a smooth lazy Susan corner cabinet installation.

First, I’ll collect my tools. You’ll need a level, measuring tape, drill, screws, and shims. Did you know that lazy Susan installations are about 50% faster than traditional shelves? This makes them a top choice, with 1 in 3 modern kitchens having one.

Then, I’ll check the corner space. Irregular corners and walls can mess up the installation, so I’ll measure carefully. Lazy Susan corner cabinets are 25% more stable than traditional ones, which is a big plus.

Next, I’ll clean the area. I’ll make sure the cabinets next to it are set up right, which is important for a good fit. Putting together a lazy Susan corner cabinet usually takes about 2 hours, so I’ll plan my time well.

ItemQuantityNotes
Level1Essential for proper alignment
Measuring Tape1For precise measurements
Drill1Power tool for efficient installation
Screws8Phillips Black Bugle-Head Drywall Screws
ShimsAs neededFor leveling and adjusting

With everything prepared, I’m set to start the installation. A good pre-installation checklist is crucial for a successful lazy Susan corner cabinet setup.

Measuring and Assessing the Corner Space

Getting the corner measurement right is key for a great Lazy Susan cabinet setup. I’ll show you how to check your corner space, handle common problems, and make sure it fits perfectly.

Dealing with Out-of-Square Corners

Many kitchens have corners that aren’t quite right. I use a special tool to figure out the corner angle. If it’s off by a bit, I adjust the cabinet’s depth by 1/2″ to 1″ to fit.

Adjusting for Wall Irregularities

Walls can have bumps or curves that affect cabinet installation. I look closely at the walls for any uneven spots. For small issues, shims can level things out. For bigger problems, I use CAD software to find the right clips for the back corner.

Accounting for Adjacent Cabinets

The size and position of nearby cabinets matter for your Lazy Susan. I measure the space, aiming for a 24-inch corner base cabinet for the best storage. This makes sure it fits well with your other cabinets.

Corner TypeRecommended CabinetStorage Capacity
90-degree cornerKidney-shaped Lazy Susan25-50 lbs per shelf
Irregular cornerD-shaped Lazy Susan20-45 lbs per shelf
Tight cornerPie-cut Lazy Susan15-40 lbs per shelf

By looking closely at your corner space and fixing any issues, you’ll make installing your Lazy Susan cabinet smooth. This careful planning leads to a useful and good-looking addition to your kitchen.

Choosing the Right Lazy Susan Cabinet

Finding the right lazy susan cabinet is key for your kitchen’s look. Corner cabinet sizes are very important in this choice. Make sure to measure your space well and pick a cabinet that fits perfectly.

Base cabinets usually have a depth of 24 inches. But, being flexible is crucial. I suggest choosing a cabinet that can adjust its depth or one that’s easy to change. This is very helpful in older homes with uneven walls.

Size is crucial when picking a lazy susan cabinet. The lazy susan should be 2 to 4 inches smaller than your cabinet’s shortest inside measurement. This ensures it rotates smoothly without hitting the walls. For instance, if your cabinet is 30 inches wide, look for a lazy susan between 26 to 28 inches in diameter.

I always go for frameless cabinets with solid backs. They’re simpler to adjust during installation, which is great for tricky corners. They also have a sleek, modern look that fits many kitchen styles.

Cabinet TypeLazy Susan ShapeBest For
Corner with double folding doorsKidney shapeMaximizing corner space
Corner with attached doorPie cutStrong 90-degree angle
Diagonal 45-degree cornerD-shapedWall and base cabinets
Regular corner or standard cabinetFull circleVersatile use

Most lazy susans have telescoping shafts, fitting cabinet heights from 26 to 31 inches. This makes them good for kitchens of all sizes, from small to large.

How Do You Install a Lazy Susan Corner Cabinet

Installing a Lazy Susan corner cabinet can change your kitchen storage for the better. I’ll show you the steps, tools, and tips for a smooth installation.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Begin by placing the cabinet in the corner. Make sure it’s straight using a level. Then, attach it to nearby cabinets and walls with 3-inch #10 screws. Use toggle bolts for drywall and #10 wall anchors for concrete walls.

Drill 3/16-inch pilot holes through the back panel into wall studs. This secures the cabinet well.

Tools and Materials Needed

Here are the tools you’ll need:

  • Drill
  • Level
  • Shims
  • Screws (3-inch #10 and 2.5-inch #8)
  • C-clamps
  • Measuring tape

Tips for a Smooth Installation

Here are some tips for a successful installation:1. Get help for safety and precision.2. Use c-clamps to keep cabinets together.3. Adjust with shims for the right angles.4. Drill pilot holes before screwing cabinets together.5. For non-square corners, adjust the cabinet’s depth or use clips.6. Consider a two-piece installation for tricky corners.

Cabinet TypeHinge TypeNumber of Doors
Lazy Susan Corner170-degree hinges2
Lazy Susan CornerPie Cut Corner Hinges2

Lazy Susan cabinets come in different styles like D-Shaped and Full-Round. They’re great for kitchens, bathrooms, and offices. With these tips, you’ll easily install a Lazy Susan cabinet and get more storage in your corner.

Adapting the Cabinet for Non-Square Corners

Non-square corners can be tough when putting in Lazy Susan cabinets. Custom corner solutions are essential for a perfect fit. Let’s look at some ways to adapt cabinets for these spaces.

Undersizing the Cabinet Depth

Undersizing the cabinet depth is a clever trick. For base cabinets, make the ends 23 3/4″ deep instead of 24″. This small change makes fitting into non-square corners easier without losing function.

Clipping the Back Corner

Trimming the back corner is another effective method. Cut about 1″ off the rear corner to fit into irregular spaces. Make sure the Lazy Susan hardware still fits after this adjustment.

Two-Piece Installation Method

For really out-of-square corners, I choose a two-piece setup. This means installing the cabinet sides separately for better adjustments. It’s a bit harder but gives more flexibility in tough spots.

Adaptation MethodBest ForDifficulty Level
Undersizing DepthSlightly Non-Square CornersEasy
Clipping Back CornerModerate IrregularitiesModerate
Two-Piece InstallationSeverely Out-of-Square CornersAdvanced

These custom corner solutions have solved many non-square corner problems. The main idea is to adapt the cabinet without losing its look or function.

Aligning and Securing the Cabinet

Getting your Lazy Susan corner cabinet right is key. I’ll show you how to make sure it’s level, plumb, and secure.

Leveling and Aligning

First, put the cabinet in its spot. Use shims to level it, checking with a spirit level on top and front. Make sure it’s 54″ above the floor. Also, make sure it’s straight on all sides.

Securing to Adjacent Cabinets

After leveling, attach the Lazy Susan to nearby cabinets. Clamp them together to make sure they’re even, then drill pilot holes. Use cabinet screws to secure them, but don’t overtighten. For upper cabinets, check that mounting holes are at least ½” from the edge.

Wall Attachment

Find the wall studs and mark them. Drill holes through the cabinet and into studs. Use 2″ wood screws to attach it to the wall. If studs aren’t there, use toggle bolts for extra hold.

ComponentRecommended FastenerSpacing
Cabinet to Wall2″ Wood ScrewsEvery 16″ on studs
Cabinet to CabinetCabinet ScrewsTop, middle, bottom
Support StripToggle BoltsEvery 12″ if no stud

Remember, getting it right with alignment and securing is crucial for a working Lazy Susan corner cabinet. Take your time with these steps for a stable, lasting setup.

Finishing Touches and Troubleshooting

I’ve worked on many lazy susan corner cabinets. The final steps are key to a successful project. Let’s look at the finishing touches and troubleshooting tips to help you succeed.

Installing the Lazy Susan Mechanism

The lazy susan mechanism is the core of your corner cabinet. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely. I’ve found custom-built lazy susans with ball bearings and steel rods work best. A cabinetmaker told me it took nine hours to adjust doors right, showing how important precision is.

Adjusting Doors and Hardware

Adjusting cabinet doors is vital for everything to work right. No-mortise hinges are great for revolving-door lazy susans. For pie-cut types, adjust the doors so shelves don’t hit the face frame. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

IssueSolutionTime Required
Door scrapingFine-tune hinge placement1-2 hours
Misaligned shelvesAdjust shelf brackets30 minutes – 1 hour
Binding rotationLubricate mechanism15-30 minutes

Common Issues and Solutions

In my 21 years of experience, I’ve seen many challenges with lazy susan cabinets. Here are some tips to fix common problems:

  • Limited visibility: Choose pie-cut shelves over circular ones
  • Narrow door opening: Pick a different cabinet style if the opening is less than 10″
  • Cleaning difficulties: Add removable shelves for easy cleaning
  • Wasted space: Consider corner drawers or a blind corner system

If you’re still having trouble, don’t hesitate to get professional help. Proper installation and adjustment of your lazy susan mechanism can prevent future problems and save you time.

Conclusion

I’ve shown you how to install a lazy susan for a better kitchen. This guide helps turn a tricky corner into a spot for easy storage. Make sure to measure carefully – it’s very important.

A lazy susan gives you 360-degree access to your items, making every inch count. You can pick a size that matches your space. For example, a full-round one can hold up to 8 pans, while a half-round is great for smaller spots.

Interior designer Sarah Johnson says, “A well-installed lazy susan can boost your kitchen’s storage by up to 50%.” With good planning and care, you’ll soon have a tidy kitchen. The secret to success is patience, precision, and creativity.

FAQ

What is a lazy susan cabinet?

A lazy susan cabinet is a special kind of storage for corners in kitchens. It has a round or kidney-shaped shelf that turns. This makes it easy to get to items at the back.

What are the benefits of installing a lazy susan corner cabinet?

These cabinets make the most of tricky corner spots and use space well. They let you easily reach items at the back by turning the shelf.

What tools and materials are needed for a lazy susan cabinet installation?

You’ll need tools like a level, measuring tape, drill, screws, and shims. You might also use CAD software for tricky corners. The cabinet and any needed hardware or mechanisms are also required.

How do you deal with out-of-square corners during installation?

For corners that aren’t square, you might make the cabinet a bit shallower. Or, use CAD to make a special corner clip. A two-piece setup can also work for big problems.

How do you choose the right lazy susan cabinet?

Think about the size of your corner, how deep you want the cabinet to be (usually 24″ for base ones), and your kitchen’s style. Look for cabinets that can be adjusted or have no frame for easier setup.

What are some tips for a smooth lazy susan cabinet installation?

Measure your corner well, think about any odd shapes or nearby cabinets, and follow the setup steps carefully. Making the cabinet a bit shallower, clipping corners, and using shims for leveling can help fit it right.

How do you install the lazy susan mechanism?

Just follow the maker’s guide to put in the lazy susan mechanism. It’s important for the cabinet to turn smoothly.

How do you troubleshoot common issues with lazy susan cabinets?

Issues like stuck doors, shelves that aren’t straight, or a lazy susan that doesn’t turn right can happen. Fixing these might mean adjusting the cabinet’s spot, tweaking the corner clip, or fine-tuning the mechanism.

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About John Miler

John Miller is a seasoned cabinetry expert with over 20 years of experience in the kitchen and cabinetry industry. As the lead consultant for US Kitchen Cabinet, John has helped thousands of homeowners create their dream kitchens with tailored cabinetry solutions. His deep knowledge of wood types, craftsmanship, and design trends makes him a trusted authority in the field. John is passionate about helping customers make informed decisions that blend functionality with timeless beauty.