Levelling off a wall

Question

Hi,

We are currently trying to install built-in wardrobes in our alcove; the plinth is built, and one side is in. When we go to put the left part it doesn't fit. We looked, and it looks like when measuring the far side of the edge, of left side is wider than the near side.

This section of wall is only about a foot deep, so what is the best way to trim it back to allow the wardrobe to fit?

Mark · Accepted Answer

The only way is to take the plaster off and re-plaster with a thinner skim or dot and dab a piece of plasterboard if the existing plaster is thicker.

Volodymyr · Answer

It sounds like your alcove wall isn’t perfectly square — quite a common issue in older or plastered walls. Since the difference in width is only on the left side and the section is quite shallow (about a foot deep), you have a few practical options depending on how much material you need to remove:

Check the measurement first:
Use a spirit level or laser level to confirm how much out-of-square the wall actually is. Measure both top and bottom gaps to see the total difference.

Mark the trim line:
If it’s just a few millimetres, you can scribe the wardrobe side panel against the wall — hold it in place, mark the uneven line, and then trim along the mark.

Trim the plaster or skirting:
If the wall bows slightly, you can shave the plaster back using a multi-tool with a drywall blade or a hand plane. For larger adjustments, use an oscillating multi-tool or chisel to carefully remove material along the edge.

Adjust the wardrobe panel instead:
If you prefer not to alter the wall, trim the wardrobe’s left side panel using a circular saw or jigsaw along the scribed line. This ensures a snug fit while keeping the visible face straight.

Finish and seal:
Once the wardrobe fits neatly, apply decorator’s caulk or filler to seal any small gaps for a clean finish.

Richard · Answer

Use a multitool to cut down the plinth and this will allow full fitment

Darryl · Answer

have to measure twice,cut once until it fits perfect. if i can help in anyway id be happy too

kind regards

DARRYL

Erik · Answer

It’s likely the wall isn’t square. Scribe the wardrobe side to the wall: mark the uneven line with a compass, trim it carefully with a jigsaw or plane, and test-fit until it fits snugly.

Rob · Answer

A photo would help but cut it back with a multi tool and make good after

Ashley · Answer

Just slippy cut the wood on a angle or re plaster the hole think and paint mould resister then re paint any colour you want.

Franco · Answer

🔧 First: Confirm the Problem

1. Measure accurately at several points:

• At different heights (top, middle, and bottom).

• At different depths (near the front and back).

2. Mark on the wall (with a pencil or tape) how much you need to trim so the cabinet fits without forcing it.

If the difference is only a few millimeters or 1 cm, it's easier to correct; if it exceeds 1.5–2 cm, it may require a different approach.

Asan · Answer

The left side of the wardrobe doesn’t fit because the wall or alcove is slightly wider at the far edge than at the near edge.

Levelling off a wall

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