Problem: Ironing boards are cumbersome and inconvenient.
Solution: You can install a premanufactured in-wall ironing board for convenience and iron storage.
Equipment list:
Stud finder
Four-foot level
Drill with assorted bits
Combination square
Keyhole drywall saw
1.5" sheetrock screws
Assorted shims
2" X 4" finished lumber
Hand saw
Ironing board insert
Safety goggles
Choose a location for your ironing board cabinet
- Use the stud finder to locate and mark two adjacent wall studs (figure A).
* Keep in mind that the board will extend 42" when open (figure B). - Choose a location that is near an electrical outlet.
- Be sure the wall doesn't have any electrical wiring or plumbing behind it.
- Mark the wall between the studs at the height you want the bottom of the board cabinet.
- Draw a level line along the mark.
- Place the cabinet against the wall with the bottom lined up with the level line. Then use the back of the cabinet as a template for drawing a cutting guide.
Cut an opening for the cabinet
- Use a keyhole drywall saw to cut along the lines on the wall (figure C).
- Take your time. The cut doesn't have to be perfect, but try to make it as neat as possible.
- If the marks don't line up perfectly with the wall studs, don't worry. Simply compensate to make the cut along the studs.
- Hold your keyhole saw at an angle with the tip pointed upward. This will reduce the risk of damaging the far wall.
- Be sure to wear your safety goggles when sawing or drilling.
Prepare the opening
- Cut two 10" pieces of 2" X 4" finished lumber. These pieces will serve as "cleats" to support the weight of the cabinet.
- Pre-drill mounting holes in the cleats, using a drill bit as close as possible to the diameter of your wood screws (figure D).
- Place the cleats so the tops are flush with the bottom of the cutout. Mark the tops of the cleats so you can be sure they don't slip down.
- Screw the cleats into place (figure E). For easier mounting, start the screws into the cleats before you place them in the wall opening.
Install the cabinet
- Place the cabinet into the cutout (figure F).
- Drill pilot holes in the middle of the sides of the cabinet (figure G). Make the first hole approximately 14" from the top and the second hole 24" below the first hole.
- Make sure the cabinet is plumb (figure H), and screw it into place. If the cabinet isn't plumb, you can use shims to adjust it one way or the other.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
