Install Above-Range Convection Oven and Cabinet

two sheets 3/4-inch oak plywood
one sheet 1/4" oak plywood
40 linear feet oak 1x6 boards
four sets of cabinet hardware (hinges and matching handles)

Tools:

2-inch hole saw
cordless drill with battery and magnetic screw tip
extension ladder
framing square
iron
level
measuring tape
pencil
power miter box
router
safety glasses
speed square
stud finder
table saw

Note: Most over-the-range ovens are made to fit in a 30 by 15-inch high opening. Check your specific model for proper dimensions. To allow the compact convection oven to be centered over the stove, this project involved building three cabinets: One 7 by 30-inches, one 30 by 15-inches and one 18 by 30-inches.

Steps:

1. First, cut the pieces for the cabinet boxes. Use 3/4-inch oak plywood for the top, bottom and sides. Use 1/4-inch oak plywood for the backs. After the boxes are built, attach the three and install them as a unit. Cut four pieces of oak to 11-3/4 inches by 30 inches, then two boards at 11-3/4 by 15 inches for the sides. Cut two boards to 5-1/2 inches, two at 28-1/2 inches and two at 16-1/2 inches for the top and bottom pieces.

3. Assemble the boxes with the finish nailer and glue. Nail three sides together, then slide the 1/4-inch plywood back in place and attach the fourth side with nails (figure B). Nail a stretcher in at the top and bottom (a stretcher is a 3-1/2 inch strip of hardwood or plywood that you screw through to attach the cabinet to a wall, a countertop or other surface). Iron on the edge banding after assembly.

4. The doors are built of solid oak in a board-and-batten style to match the original cabinets. Take the scale and dimensions from the originals and work from there.

5. Stain the interior and exterior surfaces of the boxes and doors. Seal with a clear satin polyurethane.

6. Attach the three boxes together to make alignment easier. Find the studs using a stud finder, then measure and drill a hole in the cabinet above the stove for the power cord (consult oven manufacturer's instructions for location of hole). Hang the cabinet by screwing 3-inch screws into the wall studs.

7. Install the vent for the oven by cutting a hole in the drywall and through the siding outside (figure C). Install the vent from the outside by first mounting the outdoor vent cowl. Connect to the inside with a short piece of duct and then the interior flange.

8. Screw the hanging bracket to the cabinet and install the oven according to the manufacturer's instructions.

9. Mount the cabinet doors, drill holes for the handles and attach the handles.