How to Attach Kitchen Cabinets to Metal Studs

Attaching kitchen cabinets securely to metal studs requires some special considerations compared to wood studs. With the right techniques and materials, you can end up with a rock-solid kitchen cabinet installation. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to attach kitchen cabinets to metal studs.

Preparing the Wall

Before installing the cabinets, you need to make sure the metal stud wall is properly prepared:

• Verify the metal studs are installed correctly at 16 inches on center. Uneven spacing can make cabinet installation more difficult.
• Confirm the studs are plumb and securely fastened to horizontal supports along the floor and ceiling. Sturdy studs are key for supporting cabinet weight.
• Install plywood or OSB sheathing securely to the studs to provide an even surface for mounting cabinets. Screw the sheathing into the studs every 6-8 inches around the perimeter and 12 inches in the field.

Blocking Between Studs

One challenge with metal studs is that you cannot screw cabinets directly to the thin stud face. Blocking made from wood or steel between the studs provides a solid anchoring point.

• Cut 2×4 blocks to fit tightly between studs where cabinets will be installed. Secure with screws driven into the stud web.
• Alternatively, use 18 gauge steel blocking aligned with cabinet rail locations. Screw or weld the blocking to the studs.

Securing Cabinets to Studs

With blocking installed, you are ready to fasten the cabinets to the wall:

• Predrill clearance holes through the cabinet rails slightly larger than the screw diameter. This allows adjustments during installation.
• Use self-tapping #12 or 1/4″ lag screws at least 2 1/2″ long to fasten through the cabinet rails into the blocking. Washers provide extra holding power.
• A minimum of 3-4 screws should be used per cabinet, with one near each end and any middle blocking. More screws may be required for larger cabinets.
• Level the cabinets and tighten screws snugly, but be careful not to strip the holes. Shims can be inserted behind the rails to plumb the cabinet before final tightening.

Filling Gaps

Even with proper blocking, there will likely be gaps between the cabinet rails and wall studs. These gaps should be filled to provide extra stability:

• Cut strips of 18 gauge steel or laminated 2×4 sections to bridge any gaps wider than 1/4″. Screw into place between cabinet rails and studs.
• For small gaps under 1/4″, use shims, washers or scrap wood pieces. Coat screws with construction adhesive before driving for maximum holding power.
• Avoid over-shimming which can warp cabinet frames. The goal is to stabilize the cabinets without distortion.

Additional Tips

• Use progressively longer screws moving from top to bottom cabinets for maximum grip in wall blocking.
• Consider special structural screws like Spax or GRK for holding power in metal studs. Pre-drilling is critical to avoid splitting cabinet rails.
• Use fender washers for spreading load when anchoring to light gauge metal studs.
• Shim behind wall cabinets at the top nailer for support and to maintain alignment.

With proper planning and installation techniques, metal studs can provide a sturdy foundation for installing kitchen cabinets. The key is using blocking to transition from the thin studs to a wide anchoring surface. Following these best practices will lead to a kitchen cabinet installation built to last on your metal stud walls.

Frequently Asked Questions About Attaching Kitchen Cabinets to Metal Studs

How do I find the metal studs behind my wall?

Use a stud finder designed for locating metal studs, or find them manually by lightly tapping along the wall and listening for changes in sound. Mark the stud locations with painter’s tape.

What screws should I use for metal studs?

Self-tapping coarse thread screws specifically designed for metal provide the best results. Teks, Spax and GRK make suitable structural screws. Standard wood screws may also work if the hole is pre-drilled.

Can I hang cabinets directly on metal studs?

It is not recommended to hang cabinets solely on the narrow face of a metal stud. Blocking should be installed between studs to provide solid anchoring behind each cabinet rail.

Should I attach metal backing for upper cabinets?

Yes, install metal support strips with threaded holes along the wall securely anchored to the studs. Hang upper cabinets from the metal strip instead of just the drywall.

Should cabinets be shimmed away from the wall?

Generally no – cabinets should fit snug to the wall after being plumbed. If minor gaps remain, you can use shims or washers with adhesive screws. Avoid distorting cabinet frames.

How do I attach a corner cabinet to metal studs?

Use blocking or anchors at the top and bottom rails. For the stud at the cabinet’s center point, drive long screws at opposing angles through the cabinet side panels into the stud.

Can heavy cabinets be safely supported on metal studs?

Yes, when proper installation techniques are used like solid blocking, long screws into the web, and through bolting. Spreading the load over several studs also helps.

What kind of plywood should I use over metal studs?

Use 5/8” or thicker plywood that is designed for wall sheathing. CDX grade provides suitable durability at a budget price point. Secure it well to studs for proper cabinet support.

Conclusion

Mounting kitchen cabinets on metal stud walls is certainly achievable with the right materials and techniques. The key steps include installing sturdy blocking between studs, using long self-tapping screws, and filling gaps behind the cabinet rails. Careful planning to hit all studs and supports will lead to a kitchen cabinet installation that will stand the test of time. Follow these best practices, and even heavy cabinets will be supported for the long haul. With some added considerations, metal stud walls can be just as solid a foundation as wood for your dream kitchen.