Cabinet assembly order...

[harryball]

I'm building an entertainment center for my kids for Christmas... I'm using cabinet parts pro... I get the cabinets/bases/bookcases etc... cut out ok and I'm wrestling with assembly.

Can any of you share a build order or something? i.e. start with it on the back, add the back first and so on. What works for you guys that build cabinets?

Robert

[thewoodcrafter]

Robert,
With butt joints, you assemble with the face down on a flat surface. Attach the deck to a side, then the other side, then the top.
Install the back last (depending on how you made the cabinet, slide in or nail in)to square it up.

[harryball]

Thanks for the tip.

Do you use glue (wood glue?) or just rely on the screws/nails?

I've been doing it backwards, back down with the back in first. It does have a dado and will slide in so that part sounds easier. I've also been using glue on every joint with finish nails for a quick hold then installing the pocket screws...

Maybe I over do it?

I then install through screws from the outside every 2" and add block braces to the inside. That is followed by steel reinforcing straps with some 1/4" c-channel from tungsten steel (I know I should probably use 3/8). After that I add a few clamps while the glue dries. That gives me time to start the installation of 12" steel beams in the house floor to support the 9 tons that the entertainment center will weigh when completed.
;-)

[thewoodcrafter]

We glue our joints, staple to hold things together then 4 screws per joint in a 24" deep cabinet to finish it. It is prety strong.

[Ryan Patterson]

Robert,
I start with a side on the table inside up. Put the bottom on first with pocket screws. then set the back in place (no screws yet) Install the top then put the other side on using pocket holes. Then I put the pocket screws in the back. The main reason I use pocket screws to assemble is, you do not have to keep moving the cabinet to put another part on. I will try to remember to take step by step pictures of the way I assemble tomorrow. Remember there is know wrong way to do it. The best way is the way you find it to be easiest and quickest.
Ryan