Replacing a medicine cabinet? Check the cabinet body, not just the mirror

Decide where the storage will sit

Kohler distinguishes surface-mounted cabinets, which sit against the wall, from recessed cabinets, which occupy an opening within it. A surface model projects into the room; a recessed model needs suitable space and support inside the wall. Treat the wall assessment as part of the choice, even if you already have a recessed cabinet.

List what you want to store and compare it with the proposed cabinet's usable interior. Then decide whether keeping the current wall opening matters more than gaining a different storage arrangement. A product photograph cannot resolve that tradeoff for your bathroom.

Separate the mirror face from the cabinet body

Kohler's K-R33288 specification illustrates why the distinction matters: its mirror extends beyond the cabinet body. The visible face is therefore not a template for the required recess. Use the exact model's confirmed installation dimensions, not the dimensions in a shopping title.

The same specification flags pipes and wires as possible obstacles to recessed installation. Ask for concealed services, framing and support to be assessed before agreeing to a new or enlarged opening. Do not cut an exploratory hole or assume a stud, pipe or cable can be moved as part of a cabinet swap.

Check the door in use, not only closed

Kohler's buying guide calls out clearance above the faucet and below lighting, along with door-opening direction. Review the actual door swing beside a wall, adjacent cabinet or light. Confirm the selected model's requirements instead of applying one clearance measurement to every cabinet.

A useful photo set shows the whole vanity wall, the faucet from the side, and the current cabinet open. Include which side you prefer to reach from. Note any obstruction that makes the existing arrangement awkward, rather than asking only for the same size again.

Include the kit, power and finish work

A cabinet advertised for several mounting styles may not include every kit. Robern's Profiles product page, for example, includes recessed-installation hardware but requires a separately purchased surface-mount kit for surface or semi-recessed installation. Check the complete order for your chosen method.

If the selected cabinet has powered outlets or lighting, have its supply requirements assessed by an appropriately qualified electrical provider before accepting the installation scope. Include removal of the old mirror or cabinet and any exposed holes, paint outlines or tile repairs in the proposal.

• Exact model, finish, hinge arrangement and intended mounting style.
• Confirmed cabinet-body and opening dimensions, with door clearances reviewed.
• Required mounting and side-panel kits, and who will supply them.
• Any electrical assessment, removal and wall-finish work still to be agreed.

Send the plan before buying

Send Coast & Craft the product link, vanity photos and your preferred mounting approach. Identify what is already known and what needs an on-site assessment. Confirm the accepted work and purchasing responsibilities before ordering; a requested appointment time still needs confirmation.