How to Hang Upper Cabinets on Metal Studs

Hanging upper cabinets on metal studs requires some special considerations compared to wood stud walls. With the right techniques and materials, you can securely mount your cabinets on metal studs. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to hang upper cabinets on metal studs.

Finding the Metal Studs

The first step is locating precisely where the metal studs are. Here are some tips for finding metal studs:

• Use a stud finder specifically designed for metal. It will detect studs through the drywall.
• Look for drywall seams, as metal studs are often positioned 16 inches or 24 inches apart behind them.
• Use strong magnets. They will stick to the drywall screws or nails that attach the studs.
• Tap along the wall and listen for a change in sound when you are over a stud.
• Check any available building plans to see stud layouts.

Once you locate the studs, mark them clearly for future reference.

Choosing the Right Fasteners

With metal studs, you cannot simply use standard wood screws. The fasteners must be designed to grip and hold firmly in the thin metal. Here are the best options:

• Self-tapping metal screws – These have sharp threads that cut into and hold in the metal studs. Use at least 1 1/4″ size.
• Toggle bolts – They slip through a hole drilled in the stud and then expand behind the drywall for anchoring. Get heavy duty toggles.
• Hollow wall anchors – Anchor into the cavity of the metal stud, gripping the drywall. Use long sleeve style anchors.

Make sure to get fasteners designed for the gauge (thickness) of the metal studs.

Drilling Holes in the Metal Studs

Use the following technique when drilling holes for mounting in metal studs:

• Use a carbide drill bit made for drilling metal. Apply firm pressure.
• Put a piece of duct tape over where you will drill to prevent burrs.
• Drill a smaller pilot hole first before drilling the full size hole.
• Use a center punch on the pilot hole to keep the drill bit from wandering.
• Spray lubricant on the drill bit to ease drilling and prevent overheating.
• Drill slowly and let the bit do the work; don’t force it.

Securing Cabinet Hanging Rails

Most upper cabinets have a hanging rail along the top back that affixes to the wall. Here is how to securely mount them:

• Position the hanging rail centered on the metal studs. Mark locations.
• Drill appropriately sized holes for the fasteners in the marked spots.
• Attach the hanging rail using at least 3-4 fasteners spaced out along each stud.
• Level and adjust the rail. Use washers if fastener heads extend too far.
• Consider using toggles or hollow wall anchors in between studs for added strength.

Hanging the Cabinets

With the rails securely mounted, you can now hang the cabinets:

• Attach hanging brackets designed for metal stud use to the back of the cabinets.
• Lift and position the cabinet over the mounted rails. Slide the brackets over the rails.
• Ensure the cabinet is centered and level. Shim if necessary before tightening.
• Fully tighten screws on brackets to lock it firmly in position on the rails.
• Use decorative trim to cover any gaps between the wall and cabinet.

Proper techniques and the right fasteners allow securely mounting cabinets onto metal stud walls. Follow these steps closely, and your cabinets will have rock-solid support. Let us know if you have any other questions!

Frequently Asked Questions About Hanging Cabinets on Metal Studs

How do I find the exact center of a metal stud?

Use a thin nail or drill bit to probe the drywall seam on each side of the stud. The center should be evenly between these seams. A stud finder can also help locate the middle. Mark it clearly.

What size pilot hole should I drill first?

For most cabinet hanging screws, drill a 1/8-inch pilot hole through the metal stud first before drilling the full size hole for anchors or screws. The pilot hole prevents wandering and makes drilling easier.

Should I hit the studs with a hammer to mark them?

No, hammering can distort the shape of metal studs and alter their spacing. Use a stud finder and visual checks instead to locate them. Never hammer directly on the drywall surface.

How far apart should I space fasteners on the hanging rails?

Aim to put a fastener every 12 to 16 inches along the rails over each stud for maximum strength. Don’t exceed 24 inches between fasteners. Stagger them evenly over shared studs.

Can I hang very heavy upper cabinets on hollow drywall anchors?

Hollow anchors provide good grip, but toggle bolts or through bolts into the studs are better for heavy cabinets. Distribute the weight over at least 3-4 anchors per stud. Follow weight limits for the anchors used.

Conclusion

Hanging upper cabinets securely on metal stud walls is achievable with the right techniques. Finding the studs accurately, using purpose-made fasteners for metal, drilling proper pilot holes, mounting strong rails, and hanging the cabinets precisely will ensure they are sturdily supported for years to come. Follow these steps closely next time you hang cabinets to get it right the first time. Let us know if you have any other metal stud hanging questions!