How to Hang Upper Cabinets on Metal Stud Walls

Installing upper cabinets on walls with metal studs requires some special considerations compared to mounting on wood stud walls. Properly attaching cabinets to metal studs is crucial for stability and safety. With the right preparation and materials, you can securely fasten your upper cabinets on metal stud walls.

Gather the Necessary Materials

Before starting the installation, ensure you have all the required materials:

• Upper cabinets to be installed
• Tape measure and level
• Drill with drill bits
• Wrenches and screwdrivers
• Toggle bolts or molly bolts
• Carriage bolts, washers, and nuts
• Plywood strips or metal backing plates
• Stud finder
• Protective eyewear and work gloves

Having all the necessary materials will make the installation process smooth and efficient.

Find and Mark the Metal Studs

Locating the metal studs correctly is the most important step for proper cabinet installation. Here is how to find and mark the studs:

• Use a high-quality stud finder suitable for finding metal studs. Scan the wall area to locate studs.
• Verify stud locations by using a magnet. It will stick to the drywall screws or nails if you have found a stud.
• Another method is knocking on the wall and listening for a solid sound that indicates a stud.
• Mark the center of each stud using a pencil. Make a vertical line along each stud’s entire length.

Accurately marking the studs will allow you to position the cabinets correctly.

Determine Cabinet Locations

Before mounting the cabinets, determine their ideal positions:

• Measure the wall space and the cabinets to find the optimal layout. Leave some space between cabinets and walls.
• Ensure upper and lower cabinets align correctly.
• Mark the desired height from the floor for bottom cabinet placement.Standard height is 54 inches.
• Account for soffits, windows, and other obstructions on the wall.
• Mark the cabinet locations lightly in pencil. This will serve as your guideline for mounting.

Careful planning of cabinet positioning ensures proper alignment and optimal use of space.

Attach Mounting Strips to Cabinets

Mounting strips provide strength and stability for attaching cabinets to the wall. Follow these steps:

• Cut 3/4 inch plywood strips slightly wider than the cabinet frame’s width.
• Predrill holes into the strips spaced 8-12 inches apart. Position holes closer on wider strips.
• Attach 2-3 strips horizontally along the cabinet’s backside with wood screws.
• You can also use 16 gauge metal plates instead of wood strips.

Sturdy plywood strips or metal plates anchored to the cabinets distribute weight and provide solid attachment.

Prepare the Wall for Cabinet Installation

With the studs marked and cabinet locations planned, prep the wall:

• Drill 5/16″ holes through the wall board at each stud mark using a carbide drill bit. Drill slowly to avoid cracks.
• Insert toggle or molly bolts into the holes. Tighten until the toggle or molly pieces expand and grip behind the drywall.
• Consider adding plywood backing between studs using construction adhesive for extra strength. Let it cure fully before installing cabinets.
• Make any electrical or plumbing accommodations needed before mounting the cabinets.

Proper wall preparation prevents drywall damage while providing reinforced mounting points.

Mount the Cabinets onto the Wall

You are now ready to securely fasten the cabinets to the metal studs:

• Lift and position the first cabinet against the wall using helpers or lifting devices. Align with your pencil marks.
• Insert carriage bolts through the mounting strips into the toggles or molly bolts. Add a washer and tighten the nut.
• Drill pilot holes through the strips into any exposed wall studs. Use lag screws in the holes to anchor to the studs.
• Level and adjust the cabinet. Add shims underneath if needed.
• Repeat for all additional cabinets, verifying alignment as you go. Leave room for countertops or appliances.
• Fill any gaps with caulk or filler strips. Allow to dry before using the cabinets.

Attaching the cabinets securely into the reinforced wall and studs provides sturdy long-term mounting.

Safety Tips

Follow these safety tips when mounting cabinets on metal studs:

• Wear protective eyewear when drilling to avoid eye injuries.
• Use gloves and long sleeves when cutting strips or plates to prevent cuts.
• Get help lifting heavy cabinets into place safely. Don’t attempt alone.
• Use ladders or stools instead of climbing on countertops.
• Follow drill and tool safety guidelines provided in manuals.
• Ensure electrical and plumbing lines will not be impacted.

Practicing caution and proper safety habits prevents accidents and injuries when installing cabinets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Steer clear of these common mistakes for the best results:

• Not verifying stud locations correctly leading to improper mounting.
• Failing to pre-drill drywall causing unnecessary cracks or holes.
• Using weak or wrong fasteners unable to support cabinet weight.
• Not leaving room for countertops causing alignment or spacing issues.
• Forgetting about electrical, plumbing, or other obstructions behind the wall.
• Not leveling cabinets resulting in doors and drawers not functioning properly.

Avoiding common mistakes keeps your cabinet installation on track and prevents problems down the road.

FAQs About Hanging Cabinets on Metal Studs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

What type of screws should be used to mount cabinets on metal studs?

Self-tapping screws specifically designed for metal provide the best grip. Lag screws also work well anchored into the studs.

How do you attach cabinets between the metal studs?

Use toggle bolts or molly bolts inserted into pre-drilled holes in the drywall areas between studs. They grip tightly when expanded.

Should plywood backing be added to the wall behind cabinets?

Adding plywood between the studs is an optional extra step for increased strength. It helps distribute weight better.

What is the standard height to mount bottom kitchen cabinets?

The typical height to install bottom cabinets is 54 inches above the floor. But this can vary based on your needs and preferences.

Is it OK to mount cabinets directly onto drywall without hitting studs?

It is best to anchor cabinets directly into the studs whenever possible for maximum strength and stability.

Can heavy upper cabinets pull out of the wall over time?

Yes, heavy objects can loosen from the wall if not properly anchored into studs. Use toggle bolts and lag screws correctly to avoid this issue.

Asking common questions helps identify any knowledge gaps before getting started.

Conclusion

Mounting upper cabinets onto metal stud walls is straightforward with the right process and materials. Finding the studs accurately, reinforcing the drywall, using heavy-duty fasteners, and anchoring into the studs directly are all critical steps for success. Following safety guidelines and avoiding common mistakes will lead to secure, level cabinet installation that will last for many years. With some careful planning and patience during the process, you can gain beautiful new storage on your metal stud walls.