Cost to Install a Medicine Cabinet
Installing a medicine cabinet means either securing a unit on the wall surface or recessing it into a drywall opening between studs. A surface-mounted cabinet is mounted against the wall, while a recessed installation requires accurate measuring, a level outline, and confirmation that the wall cavity is clear of electrical wires and plumbing pipes.
Common reasons homeowners do this job
- Replacing a worn or damaged medicine cabinet.
- Adding a medicine cabinet as part of a bathroom update.
- Changing from a surface-mounted cabinet to a recessed cabinet.
- Updating the cabinet’s appearance or storage arrangement.
DIY or call a pro?
This is a legitimate DIY project when the wall cavity is clear and the cabinet can be mounted or recessed with the structure left as is. Consult a licensed professional if the installation requires modifying structural load-bearing studs or involves complex electrical work. Consider professional help if there is uncertainty about locating wires or plumbing before cutting into the wall.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I install a medicine cabinet myself?
- Yes, this is a DIY-friendly project. Recessed mounting requires locating studs, checking the wall cavity for wires and pipes, and making a level opening. Wear safety glasses and ear protection while cutting, and use work gloves around sharp edges and debris.
- What makes medicine cabinet installation cost more?
- The price can rise with the number of cabinets, labor time, and materials. Removing and hauling away an old cabinet may add to the job, while a small installation can also be affected by a minimum or trip charge.
- What should I check before cutting drywall for a recessed medicine cabinet?
- First decide whether the cabinet will be surface-mounted or recessed, then use a stud finder to locate the studs. Before making any cut, confirm that the planned wall cavity is clear of hidden electrical wires and plumbing pipes.
- What if a wall stud is in the way of a recessed cabinet?
- A recessed cabinet must fit within the available wall framing. If a stud interferes, the opening may need reframing with 1x4 or 2x4 lumber after the stud is cut. Modifying a structural load-bearing stud calls for a licensed professional.
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