How to Hang Cabinets on Metal Walls

Hanging cabinets on metal walls requires careful planning and preparation to ensure a secure installation. Unlike drywall, metal walls don’t allow traditional screws or nails to penetrate for mounting. However, with the right techniques and materials, you can install sturdy, level cabinets that will withstand years of use.

Steps for Hanging Cabinets on Metal Walls

Follow these key steps to successfully hang cabinets on metal walls:

Choose Appropriate Cabinetry

Opt for lightweight cabinets constructed from medium density fiberboard (MDF) or solid wood. Avoid heavy cabinets made of particle board or low-quality materials. Measure carefully to select cabinets that will fit the space.

Consider frameless style cabinets with adjustable shelves and hidden hinges for a modern look. Or choose traditional face frame cabinets with visible hinges and rails. Just be sure the cabinets are not overly bulky or heavy.

Gather Proper Mounting Hardware

You’ll need special hardware to attach cabinets to metal framing or walls. Self-tapping metal screws work well, but access to the wall interior is required. Toggle bolts are another option for top-quality anchoring.

Other good choices include:

• Hollow wall anchors
• Molly bolts
• Sheet metal screws
• Nuts and bolts with washers

Make sure all hardware is galvanized or stainless steel to prevent rusting.

Attach Mounting Strips

Install horizontal mounting strips secured firmly to the metal wall studs. These provide a solid surface to attach the cabinets.

• Use self-tapping metal screws to fasten strips to wall studs.
• Position strips to align with cabinet height and layout.
• 2×4 lumber or 1×3 furring strips work well for this.

Add Shims if Needed

Metal walls may not be perfectly straight and flat. Use shims behind the mounting strips to fill any gaps or irregularities.

• Cut shims from wood scraps or purchase plastic shims.
• Tap shims gently into place with a hammer.
• Level and plumb the mounting strips carefully.

Fasten Cabinets to Mounting Strips

Attach cabinets securely to the horizontal mounting strips with appropriate fasteners.

• Lag screws, hex bolts, or toggle bolts all provide strong support.
• Predrill holes to prevent splitting wood strips.
• Use flat washers to distribute weight.
• Tighten all fasteners firmly but avoid over-tightening.

Use Filler Panels and Trim

Once cabinets are installed, fill any visible gaps with coordinating trim pieces or filler panels. This provides a polished, built-in look.

• Cut filler panels from matching cabinetry material.
• Attach with small finish nails for a seamless fit.
• Use cleat boards and trim molding to conceal edges.

Hanging Upper Cabinets on Metal Walls

The process for mounting upper cabinets on metal walls is similar but requires a few extra installation steps:

Reinforce Inside Cabinet Structure

The interior cabinet structure must be very sturdy to support weight when mounted on a metal wall.

• Apply wood blocking to reinforce shelves and sides.
• Glue and clamp scrap boards to improve strength.
• Angle metal brackets or T-braces provide extra support.

Allow Space for Outlets and Pipes

Be sure to leave adequate space between upper cabinets for any electrical boxes, plumbing, vents or other obstacles along the wall.

Mount a Hanging Rail

Install a sturdy metal rail across wall studs to hang upper cabinets from.

• Use a Unistrut channel or rectangular steel tubing.
• Fasten securely with self-tapping metal screws into studs.
• Ensure rail is perfectly level and can hold cabinet weight.

Use Cleats to Hang Cabinets

Cut wood cleats that attach to upper cabinet backs and rest on the hanging rail.

• 2×2 or 2×4 lumber works well.
• Angle the cleat to provide stability and prevent slipping.
• Secure cleat with bolts or metal brackets.

Anchor the Bases

Make sure upper cabinet bases are anchored securely to metal wall studs for added support using L-brackets or corner gussets.

Tips for Hanging Kitchen Cabinets on Metal Walls

Follow these additional tips when installing kitchen cabinets on metal framing:

• Identify all wall studs for attaching mounting strips and anchors. Use a stud finder specific for metal.
• Plan cabinet layout to align with underlying wall studs whenever possible.
• Use filler panels between cabinets and reinforce for strength. Avoid large gaps.
• Opt for decorative end panels rather than exposed cabinet sides to conceal uneven walls.
• Select adjustable shelves that can be leveled even if underlying wall is uneven.
• Make sure wall surface is cleaned and degreased where cabinets will adhere.
• Check cabinets frequently during installation to ensure they remain level.
• Take time to align doors and drawers properly after installation. Adjust as needed.
• Caulk along tops, edges and seams for a tidy appearance once installed.

Common Problems Hanging Cabinets on Metal Walls

Installation on metal framing presents some unique challenges. Watch out for these potential problems:

• Warping or distortion – Low quality cabinets may bend or warp over time. Stick with solid wood or thick MDF.
• Pulling away from the wall – Improperly anchored cabinets can gradually detach from the wall. Use toggles, molly bolts or through bolts for best support.
• Sagging shelves – Shelves that lack adequate bracing, especially in upper cabinets, are prone to sagging over time. Reinforce interior cabinet structure prior to mounting.
• Rusting fasteners – Moisture causes exposed fasteners to rust and corrode eventually. Choose high quality stainless steel or galvanized hardware.
• Difficult access – Upper cabinets and tight spaces allow little room for drilling and fastening. Plan ahead and use specialized tools.
• Uneven appearance – Imperfect walls make it tricky to align and level cabinets. Use shims, filler panels and trim for a finished look.

FAQs About Installing Cabinets on Metal Walls

Can you screw directly into a metal stud?

No, regular wood screws will not penetrate metal framing. Specialized self-tapping metal screws must be used, drilling into the center of the stud. Wall anchors also provide an alternative fastening option.

What screws work best for metal studs?

Self-tapping metal screws specifically designed for sheet metal provide the best results. Phillips or square drive coarse threaded screws in lengths between 1-1/4” and 3” are ideal for most cabinet installations.

Do cabinets need reinforcement for metal studs?

Extra reinforcement is beneficial for upper cabinets that require more rigidity. Use plywood gussets, angle brackets or L-brackets inside the cabinet box to strengthen it prior to installation.

Can you hang cabinets on metal siding?

Metal residential siding is not strong enough to support cabinet weight directly. Instead, attach mounting boards horizontally across the wall studs prior to hanging the cabinets.

What is the best way to find studs behind metal framing?

A good quality electronic stud finder designed for metal will accurately locate metal studs. Look for a model with AC detection to find studs under drywall or other finishes.

How do you attach a cleat to a metal stud?

Use self-tapping screws to attach wooden cleats horizontally to underlying metal wall studs. Predrill holes in the cleat to prevent splitting. Ensure screws are long enough to penetrate the stud’s center.

Conclusion

Hanging cabinets on metal walls is absolutely achievable with specialized tools and techniques. Carefully follow installation best practices such as reinforcing the cabinets, using appropriate hardware, and securely fastening to supporting internal wall studs. With attention to detail during the planning and installation process, metal walls can provide a sturdy foundation for functional and beautiful cabinetry.