How to Build a Platform for a Wall Oven

Key Points

If you’re trying to install a heavy wall oven during a kitchen renovation, there are a few key things to bear in mind.

Before starting any modifications, measure the distance from the bottom of the oven to the floor. Precision is critical for a secure fit, especially with a 228-pound oven.
Construct a simple support platform out of 2x4s with a plywood top to support the oven’s weight. This small platform will distribute weight safely and prevent strain on the cabinet.
Once the platform is built, carefully slide the oven onto it and secure it to the surrounding cabinets from the front, following the oven manufacturer’s instructions for additional safety.
Review the oven’s installation guide; most manufacturers include support recommendations, which can guide the contractor’s build for maximum stability.

Transcript

LESLIE: We have a call from Rob in Delaware whose wall oven unit doesn’t fit.

Doing some repairs, Rob?

ROB: Oh, yes I am.

LESLIE: How can we help you?

ROB: OK, actually I’m renovating the kitchen and I’ve got a double wall oven that weighs 228 pounds.

TOM: OK.

ROB: There’s no support. The company that built the cabinet does not provide support for this and my contractor is having a problem. He has to create something, he says, and I guess he needs some help with this.

TOM: OK. Now the wall oven, how many inches is it going to be from the bottom of that oven to the floor?

ROB: It’s probably about 16 inches, maybe.

TOM: OK. So all you need to do is to build a small platform to sit under the appliance. And measurement is key here because with a 228-pound oven, you don’t want to have to put it in more than once. (Leslie chuckles)

ROB: Yes.

TOM: So, conceptually, what you need to do is you need to build a small platform right under that. You can simply build that out of 2x4s with a plywood base and then slide the oven in so it ends up right on top of that platform and then attach it to the cabinets from the front. Most of the weight will be held by the platform and that should be completely safe. And in fact, I would be surprised if, in the instructions for the wall oven, you don’t see some advice on how to support that because, typically, that’s something that a manufacturer would tell you.

ROB: OK, I appreciate that.

TOM: Alright, it’s pretty straightforward. Rob, thanks so much for calling us at 1-888-MONEY-PIT, 888-666-3974; solving another one of those little surprises.