Everything You Need to Know About Closet Installation
Everything You Need to Know About Closet Installation

Everything You Need to Know About Closet Installation

11.8.2021

After hours of scouring the internet, you've managed to find your desired closet. But if you are inexperienced in closet installation, we have everything you need to know! 

Before you purchase your desired closet, it's always better to have a primary understanding of how the closet installation works. Read on for our comprehensive guide, where we'll explain the ins and outs of the closet installation process.

Installing a Closet: Everything You Need to Know 

In the following sections we'll detail the entire process of closet installation and organization systems. 

Required Tools 

During the course of installation, you'd be required to use a closet installation kit and accessories. It's always smart to have the tools within your reach while working, or else it can delay the installation. Gather up these tools before proceeding: 

  1. Hammer 
  2. Knife 
  3. Tape Measure 
  4. Pliers 
  5. Hack saw 
  6. Drill set 
  7. Hearing protection
  8. Safety glasses 
  9. Stepladder 
  10. Stud finder 
  11. Pry bar 
  12. Framing square 
  13. Level 
  14. Air compressor 
  15. Nail gun 
  16. Chalk line 
  17. Portable light 
  18. Putty knife 
  19. Screwdrivers 
  20. Jigsaw 
  21. Blades 
  22. Table saw

These are all of the tools that you’ll need to have on hand before starting the full process of installing your closet. Having all the tools beforehand will minimize any delays during the closet installation process. 

Luckily, most of these tools may already be in your home. For any materials you don't have, you can simply order or rent them from the nearest hardware store or home depot. 

Required Materials 

Apart from getting the tools needed for the construction, you’ll also need the materials to shape the closet. Here’s what you’ll need:

  1. 16d Nails 
  2. Double doors 
  3. Toggle bolts 
  4. 2x4s Woods 
  5. 1/2 in Drywall 
  6. Shims

Preparation Before Installation 

It's vital to have a complete preparation and a blueprint of the organization system before installing a closet. Pre-installation determines the quality of the final product. 

If you're correctly prepared for the job, then the results will show. On the other hand, poor preparation could result in an unexpected outcome that you don't want to experience. 

Let's quickly look at the preparation that’s needed before the installation.

Selecting the Right Location for Closet System

Well, this is one of the most important aspects to consider and focus on from the start. Getting the correct location is extremely important if you're looking for the best outcome. 

One of the most important factors to consider is the issue of light and air. These are the two things that determine the quality of the clothes stored inside the closet. 

Mold and bacterial developments are one of the biggest concerns. On top of that, insect infestations remain a big challenge as well. 

That's why it's better to get your closet constructed in areas where you get sunlight and air. The UV ray from the sun destroys all the bacterial and fungal elements, and the airflow keeps the clothes fresh.

So, pick a place where there is enough ventilation and natural light available.  

Having better storage solutions is equally important, so try placing it where there is ample room available.

Source URL:  https://www.pinterest.com/pin/379569074815073779/

Plan the Size of the Closet Systems

How big should it be? While getting the closet installed, one thing that should be kept in mind is the size. The closet will have to have the capability to store all your clothing in one go. 

Try to have a calculated guess at how much space would be needed to get all your clothes stored correctly. It's always better to get the closet built a bit larger because many things can increase your amount of clothes, like having children. 

So, always keep these things in mind before starting the actual construction.

Source URL: https://www.designcafe.com/blog/bedroom-interiors/wardrobe-dimensions/

Clean up the Area 

Before you begin the installation, it's a must to clean up the designated area first for the installer. It's always best to have a flat and clean surface where you begin your installation. 

Remove any pictures or mirrors hanging on the wall. Also, try to clean up the floor as neatly as possible. During the closet installation, heavy hammering will be required, which will result in shaking on the wall. 

That's why if you have expensive artwork hanging close by, it’s best to remove that one too.

Source URL: https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/business/business-news/clean-up-your-mess-its-14551952

Get the Kids Together for a Playdate 

Kids can hamper the installation process to a certain extent. Their running and jumping around can obstruct the installers from performing their tasks freely. 

On top of that, you’ll have construction materials and tools lying all across the floors, and they can get seriously hurt because of them as well. So, plan a playdate at a friend's home and let them stay there until the installation is done.

Source URL: https://www.stephens-scown.co.uk/about/employee-ownership-theres-no-place-like-scown/

Get the Pets to Safety 

Just like the kids, pets should also be considered. While the installation crew will work on the custom closet installation, the front door will be left open pretty much the whole time. 

Pets can escape out on the streets, exposing them to danger. That's why it's better to keep the pets somewhere else for the day. 

Consult Related Individuals and Schedule a Date 

Another important factor is the issue of helping hands. Are you bringing in professional installers? If so, then try contacting them earlier and ask them to come on a particular date. 

If you don't want a pocket-busting installation fee, then calling in a friend who has a credible understanding of the whole matter well can be a good alternative. 

Settle a particular date when all the parties will be free to work on the closet with ease. 

Source URL: https://design.closetmaid.com/en-US/Design/pages/design.aspx 

Inspect the Floor of Your Custom Closet

If you want a floor-based closet, then inspecting the floor is one of the biggest tasks. What type of floor do you want with your closet? 

If the existing floor isn't something you want for the closet, this would be the perfect time to replace it. Because once you get it installed the floor can't be replaced without messing up the entire area. 

But here is one thing to remember, if you have a suspended system, in that case, you won't need to change the floor in advance. Because with suspended systems, the closet will not be resting on the floor. 

Source URL: https://www.homestratosphere.com/what-is-the-best-flooring-for-closets/

Paint the Walls 

One thing that you'd need to take into consideration is the issue of wall conditions. Because having worn out, ugly walls would completely ruin the look of your newly installed closet every time. What to do then?

If you're tearing an already used closet to install the new one will leave marks on the walls. On top of that, discoloration would ruin the aesthetic aspects of the entire thing. 

Existing nail holes are one of the most irritating elements you'd need to wipe out completely. 

So, why are you not using this opportunity to redesign the walls completely? Paint the entire wall beautifully before you start working on the project.

You'd have to keep in mind that the walls must be painted 1-2 days before closet installation. Within this period, the wall will be dried, and you can get the job done easily. 

Source URL: https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/young-man-painting-blue-wall_12233499.htm#page=1&query=wall%20painting&position=1

Ready the Tools and other Components

It's also quite important to have the tools and materials ready before the work begins. If people come over to your place to help you, it'd be a waste of time for both of you. 

So, shop for all the items at least 1 day before the work begins. 

For the tools, you're not buying and perhaps have in your hardware box, give them a thorough inspection and ensure they're working correctly. 

There are plenty of items you'd have to manage. For that reason, it's better to have a checklist. It'll help you get all the items on board without missing anything. 

Source URL: https://www.istockphoto.com/photos/man-tools

Design the Closet 

Designing the closet is one of the primary actions which requires utmost importance. But what do you base your design upon? 

Well, to understand the design better, you'd have to look at your needs. 

For instance, are you planning to get more drawers? If not, then the closet should have a more hanging storage system instead. 

Hanging height is another key design question. The type of clothes you'd store would decide the amount of hanging space you can go for. Long suits and winter coats would require plenty of hanging space. 

Plus, the issue of drawer-centered and open shelving is another key consideration. Open shelving will have a better airflow, but the clothes will be exposed in it. 

On the other hand, quality drawer shelves hide the clothes in a sophisticated manner. 

Source URL:  https://www.jmu.edu/academics/undergraduate/majors/graphic-design.shtml

Getting the Obstructions Measured Right 

Here is another important aspect. While getting the closets constructed, you will have obstructions that will prevent you from applying the designed measurement correctly. 

That's why here we have made a list of possible obstructions. Keep each one of them in mind before heading forward with any tasks: 

  1. Should the door be swinging inside or out during closet door installation? And closet door installation cost.
  2. Lighting placements
  3. Door opening height and width 
  4. Ceiling height 
  5. Vent holes 
  6. Light switches 
  7. Outlet
  8. Electric panels 

These are some of the things which need to be incorporated in the closet no matter what. So, don't miss them out during your measurements and plan the entire thing accordingly. 

Source URL: https://ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/french-closet-doors

Plan the Inventory 

Getting each item to its rightful place requires many struggles. Here are some of the things you should consider while getting the closet constructed. 

Suppose you don't know the width for the regular hanging items. Then keep it between 18" to 24" wide. This is the standard practice. 

Now, you should measure up the number of shelves needed to store folded clothes. Usually, it may require around 12" space in height. 

For shoes, start by leaving 6" to 8" of space for each shelf. But if you want to construct shelves for tall boots, use 15-20" spacing. If you have 24" in width, roughly 3 pairs of shoes will be able to fit on the shelf. If you want to keep 2 pairs of shoes on each shelf, make it 18". 

For hanging clothes, the hanger rod is usually placed 70-75" above the ground. 

The ceiling height should be around 96" inches.

If you want to store folded clothes of varying degrees, it's recommended to keep the depth of the drawers 14". The width of the drawers should be 15" -18" inches. 

You can use specially designed scarf, tie and belt hangers to get them stored right. 

Hooks can carry hats. 

These are the basic design considerations you must highlight before starting the work. 

Source URL: https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-do-a-closet-inventory-and-why-you-should-211295

Step by Step Process of Closet Installation 

So, now we're here at the installation procedure. Here we'll give you a detailed picture of how a closet is installed regularly. Let's learn it in different stages.  

Framing the Walls of the Closet Organizer

First, get your stud finder to mark and locate the framing members where the new closet wall would be placed. Now, connect the new wall plates at the same framing with screws.

If you're willing to use closet lighting systems, use a nearby electric box to route cable. 

Routing an electric line from a port isn't the easiest of jobs, and there are certain risks associated with it. That's why we'd suggest you call in an electrician who can do the job safely. 

While you get the plates installed, it's pretty easy to complete the walls by cutting the studs and door trimmers to fit. 

Source URL: https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-build-a-wall-to-wall-closet/

Hanging the Suspension Rail 

This part of the guide, it's about changing the suspension rail. First, start by measuring the wall, so you don't get to run into a problem while fitting it correctly. 

While attaching the closet and getting the rail hanged, it's crucial to learn where the studs are on the wall and where the panels will hang. 

If you're not able to install the rails correctly, the entire system will not work right. You'd have to get the rails secured into studs on the wall. 

If you're not able to locate the studs, use snap toggles to support the rails. The snap toggles have to be installed before you get the rails secured on the wall. 

After securing the rail, snap over the cover to get the system suspended. 

While performing all these activities, you must remember that the panel shouldn't be placed exceeding the 3" mark from the snap toggle anchor or any screw. 

Source URL: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/590816044851237644/

Get the Panels Suspended 

At the third step of our guide, we'd be working on getting the panels suspended. First, you'd have to connect the suspension brackets with the panels. You will find two holes on top of every panel close to the notch. 

Use multiple 10mm screws designed especially for suspending brackets with the drills coming with the number 2 Phillips bit. 

When you get all the suspension brackets attached to the panels, hook each one of them to the rail. 

Now, raise the panel with a suspension bracket over the rail. Now bring down the panel slowly, so you get the suspension bracket firmly hanging off the rail. 

You'd have to make sure of the farthest right and left vertical panels to have their suspension brackets faced towards the inner side of the mechanism. 

After that, try getting the vertical panels hanging on the suspension rail. Now, get the vertical panels hanging on the suspension rails where they are at. Now, set the panels at the correct locations. 

Source URL: https://www.closets.com/blog/closet-panels/

Getting the Fixed Shelves Installed 

Now, it's about getting the shelves installed. You can paint the shelves before installing, or you can spray paint the shelves once they're installed; that's up to you. Try to smoothen up the surface of the shelves before painting using sandpaper. 

First, use a level to draw lines on the wall where you want the shelves to sit. 

Use your stud finder to get the locations of the studs and mark them using a pencil. Use a leveler to draw a straight line where you want the fixed shelves to be. 

Using the line you just drew, determine where the shelf brackets will need to be mounted and mark the place where the brackets' screw holes will go. Drill pilot holes at the markings. 

Insert anchors at the pre-drilled holes and hammer them into place. Now screw the brackets into the wall. Now mount the shelves on top of the shelf brackets. Some shelves need to be screwed into the shelves too. So you got the fixed shelves installed. 

Source URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8uPWiZV1F0 

Install the other Adjustable Items 

Now is the time to get the other adjustable items installed. 

Installing the Adjustable Shelves 

First, it's time to get the adjustable shelves installed. Place the pins in any of the desired holes and put the shelves on top of the pins. You can use four pins to get one shelf installed. Getting the shelves placed isn't that difficult. 

Source URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bI8kImf3Sms

Installing the Drawers 

To get the clothes stored inside drawers hidden from everyone, drawers have to be installed. Drawers should only be installed when all the other closet tasks have been completed. Drawers come attached with slides. 

First, you'd have to get the slides installed inside the closet before you put the drawers in. Layout the potential runner placements by marking them inside the closet. Their size will decide the space between each drawer. 

Try locating the third hole at the front part of the slide. Now rest the slide against the shelf, and align the hole with the hole at the side panel. 

If you do that, the hole in the back will automatically adjust with another pre-bored hole at the back. Now secure the drawer slide with screws. Repeat the same with the other slide. 

Get the drawers now installed by pulling out the slides and placing the drawers on the slides. Make sure both clips are attached in place by making a clicking noise.

You can also décor the drawers with some fancy pulls for a beautiful appearance! 

You can also use quality wear baskets as a more minimalist and highly effective drawer system. 

Source URL: https://www.freepik.com/premium-photo/worker-sets-box-installation-drawer-closet-cabinet_7036823.htm

Closet Rod Installation

Finally, it's time to install the hanger rods. To install each rod, you'd require two-rod cups. These cups will hold it in place. Put one end of the rod on one cup and do the same with the other one. 

So, here is how you can easily place the rods. You can place the rods at different heights using the closet holes. 

Source URL: https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/rooms-and-spaces/storage-space/how-to-install-a-closet-rod

FAQ Recap

How much does closet installation cost?

Closet installation can vary based on thousands of different elements. There are plenty of things that can hike up the installation cost to a staggering 12-13 thousand dollars! 

While you can also get it done as low as $500. The average closet installation cost is pretty high as well, at around $3500. 

Is it hard to install a closet?

Depending on the complexity, the closet installation can range from really easy to severely challenging difficulty levels. If you're trying to get a regular open shelving closet, it shouldn't be that difficult. 

On the other hand, if you're going full-on closet rooms, things can become extremely complicated to be accomplished alone without any helping hands. 

How do I install my own closet?

You can install your own closet by reading online installation guides or watching installation tutorials online easily. 

Are our closet organizers worth it?

Without a doubt, they are. Closet organizers can declutter the closet space, freeing up new space to store more clothes and linens. They also make the closet look much more orderly and organized. 

Is a custom closet worth it?

Yes, custom closets can surely play a crucial role in storing all your clothes, towels, and sheets in the perfect order. 

How can I build a cheap closet organizer?

There are many cheap closet organizer options. Leftover wooden panels for the wood closet can be used as dividers inside the closet. You can also use unused round-shaped boxes to store ties, scarfs, or belts in a rounded shape. 

There are tons of other cost-effective, home DIY closet organizers you can try from. 

How do you build a closet in a room without a closet?

Just get armor or a dresser that works pretty much the same. A steel clothes rack can easily get the job done without much hassle. Further, you can build your own shelves to store the clothes like a closet. 

Final Thoughts 

We're at the final parts of our long and detailed guide. In our guide, we tried to show you how the entire task of installing the closet may look like. 

We highlighted the items which will be required during the installation process, so you can collect them and keep them ready before the installation. Plus, we explained each installation procedure with intricate details, so the job is eased up for you. 

So, what are you waiting for? Now you know everything you need to know about closet installation. Get the items, start your own installation right now!



 

Previous 66 Laundry Closet Ideas for an Insanely Effective Laundry System 66 Laundry Closet Ideas for an Insanely Effective Laundry System
Next The Gift To Top All Gifts The Gift To Top All Gifts
Popular Post
Your Room Your Haven
Your room your haven
How to Organize a Small Closet with Lots of Clothes
How to organize a small closet...
How to Organize a Pantry: A Step-by-Step Guide
How to organize a pantry: a...

Leave a Comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.

Popular Post
Your Room Your Haven
Your room your haven
How to Organize a Small Closet with Lots of Clothes
How to organize a small closet...
How to Organize a Pantry: A Step-by-Step Guide
How to organize a pantry: a...