I have a cabinet that's 17 inches tall, but the microwave I want is 17.875 inches tall. Plus, I need an additional 0.25 to 0.375 inches for proper ventilation and installation. There's also a 0.75 inch trim piece at the top of the cabinet that I can't seem to remove; it feels glued or nailed down. If removing the trim isn't feasible, would it be better to use an oscillating tool to shave about 0.75 inches off the inside edge of the cabinet opening? Has anyone done a similar modification and have tips for making a clean cut? Or should I just look for a different microwave? The cabinet is only 13 inches deep, so my options are limited.
3 Answers
That trim piece is likely part of the cabinet structure. It could be easier to remove the bottom shelf instead, making space for the microwave there and venting through the top. If you're set on the microwave, just be careful when cutting—use a fine-toothed blade for a clean edge. But honestly, if you're just gonna cram it in, maybe looking for a different model is the way to go!
Honestly, it sounds like a tight fit. Over-the-range microwaves need to be supported from above and typically have bottom vents, which might not work well in a cabinet like yours. You might want to consider a countertop microwave instead, as they're usually smaller and designed for spaces like this.
Just a heads up, the outlet might be in a tricky spot if it’s not in an enclosed box. If that's the case, you may need to reconsider your options regarding both the microwave and placement to ensure everything fits and functions safely.