How to Install Cabinets in Metal Studs

Installing cabinets in metal studs requires some special considerations compared to installing cabinets in wood studs. With proper planning and the right materials, you can securely mount cabinets on metal studs for a long-lasting installation.

Introduction

Metal studs are increasingly common in modern construction. They offer benefits like being lightweight, resisting warping, and having uniform dimensions. However, their thin profile and lack of wood grain can present challenges when installing cabinets or other heavy items.

With careful planning and preparation, you can securely install cabinets on metal studs without hitting plumbing or electrical. The key is to understand how to find the studs, choose the right fasteners, and use specialized mounting brackets.

Benefits of Installing Cabinets on Metal Studs

• Metal studs don’t warp or twist over time like wood. This allows for a flat and consistent mounting surface for cabinets.
• Metal framing is lighter weight than wood framing. This reduces the structural load on the building.
• Metal studs are available in set dimensions, like 25 ga 3-5/8″. This standardized sizing makes planning cabinet layouts easier.
• Properly mounted cabinets on metal studs are very sturdy and can support a lot of weight.
• Metal doesn’t rot or attract termites like wood. Cabinets mounted on metal studs avoid these potential problems.

Challenges of Mounting on Metal Studs

• The thin profile of metal studs leaves less depth for screw penetration compared to thick wood studs.
• It can be tricky to locate studs accurately since metal doesn’t have wood grain to visually guide you.
• Heavy cabinets can deform or pull out thin metal studs if not properly supported.
• Hitting plumbing or electrical lines hidden within the stud is more likely with the narrow stud space.
• Standard cabinet mounting screws are usually too big to penetrate thin metal studs. Specialized fasteners are required.
• Metal doesn’t hold screws as securely as wood so specialized fasteners or bracket solutions are necessary.

How to Locate and Mark Metal Studs

Locating the metal studs accurately is a key first step before installing cabinets onto a metal stud wall. Here are some tips for finding and marking the studs properly:

• Use a high quality stud finder suitable for finding metal studs. Look for one that clearly indicates the stud edges.
• Check for studs by magnet. A fridge magnet or rare earth magnet can detect drywall screws/nails.
• Measure and mark stud spacing based on the common 16″ or 24″ on-center stud design.
• Verify stud locations by lightly tapping and listening for a change in sound.
• Make small drill pilot holes to confirm the stud outer edges and center.
• clearly mark stud centers with painters tape for easy reference later.

Studs that align with cabinet mounting locations are the most important to mark. Double check your measurements before drilling or cutting into the wall.

Choosing the Right Fasteners

Standard coarse thread wood screws are too large in diameter for thin metal studs. Using specialized self-drilling screws or bolts is critical for a secure metal-to-metal fastening.

Look for fasteners specifically designed for 25 ga – 20 ga metal studs. Common options include:

• Self-drilling tapping screws with drill tip and coarse high thread
• Hex washer head self-drilling screws for good pullout resistance
• Heavy-duty toggle bolts that expand behind the studs
• Molley or other hollow wall anchors to brace between studs

Aim for #10, #12, or 1/4″ diameter size screws. Anything larger risks poking through the thin metal. Match the screw length to your cabinet back panel thickness.

Using Mounting Brackets

Installing wood blocking between the studs or using specialized mounting brackets gives metal studs more support for heavy upper cabinets. This prevents sagging, detachment, and deformation over time.

Some good mounting bracket options include:

• Spanner flange bars or clips to spread force over stud faces
• Bridge or channel brackets to tie multiple studs together
• Box channel bracing designed for upper cabinet loads
• Hardware store brackets to bridge studs and rest on the wall top plate

Follow manufacturer instructions to position the brackets properly. The sturdy support helps compensate for the less secure screw grip in metal.

Step-by-Step Cabinet Installation on Metal Studs

Now let’s walk through the key steps to securely installing cabinets on metal stud wall framing:

1. Confirm Stud Layout and Mark Locations

Use a stud finder and measurements to mark all studs aligning with planned cabinet mounting locations. Double check accuracy before moving on.

2. Install Horizontal Mounting Brackets

For upper cabinets, install box channel bracing, bridge brackets, or other reinforcement tightly between multiple studs at the planned height.

3. Pre-drill Holes

Pre-drill clearance holes in the cabinet back panels at marked stud locations using a bit just larger than the screw diameter.

4. Attach Cabinets to Studs

Drive screw or bolt fasteners through the back panel and snug into the stud at each marked location following a level line.

5. Use Hollow Drywall Anchors if Needed

For additional support or locations between studs, use hollow wall anchors tapped into the drywall layer only.

6. Verify Rigid Attachment

Check that all cabinets are tightly fastened to the studs or bracing without sagging or gaps. Add additional fasteners or supports if needed.

With the right planning and hardware, your cabinets will be sturdily mounted to withstand years of heavy use. Just take precautions around potential hidden electrical or plumbing lines within the studs whenever drilling or cutting into metal stud framing.

Tips for Safely Installing Cabinets on Metal Studs

• Use a stud finder suitable for metal and verify locations by drilling pilot holes.
• Choose fasteners specifically made for thin metal – no standard wood screws.
• For heavy upper cabinets, install mounting brackets between multiple studs.
• Pre-drill clearance holes in the cabinet backs for easy screw alignment.
• Take care around potential electrical or plumbing runs hidden within studs.
• Make sure cabinets are fully tightened to studs or bracing to avoid sagging over time.
• Consider using hollow wall anchors between studs for added support and stability.
• Limit screw penetration depth to avoid poking through the thin metal framing.

FAQ About Installing Cabinets on Metal Studs

What type of screws should I use for metal studs?

Use self-drilling tapping screws or bolts specifically designed for fastening into thin gauge metal. Standard coarse wood screws can split metal studs.

Do I need special brackets for upper cabinets on metal studs?

Yes, using mounting brackets or channels is recommended to brace upper cabinets across multiple studs. This prevents sagging and pullout over time.

What is the best way to find stud locations in metal framing?

Use an electronic stud finder calibrated for metal and validate the edges by drilling small pilot holes or tapping to detect changes in sound.

Can I securely mount heavy cabinets like ovens into metal studs?

Yes, you can safely mount very heavy cabinets into metal studs as long as you use the proper fasteners and distribute the weight across enough studs.

Should I pre-drill holes for mounting screws in metal studs?

Pre-drilling slightly oversized clearance holes is highly recommended to prevent cracking thin metal when driving in fasteners.

Can I mount cabinets directly into drywall between the metal studs?

You can use hollow drywall anchors between studs for lighter cabinets, but directly mounting into studs is stronger and more secure for long-term reliability.

Conclusion

Installing cabinets onto metal stud framing has some unique considerations compared to working with wood studs. With the right materials like self-drilling screws and mounting brackets, properly locating the studs, pre-drilling holes, and securely driving the fasteners, you can confidently mount cabinets onto metal studs in your home. Just take care around potential hidden plumbing and wiring within the narrow stud cavity when cutting or drilling. Follow good measuring and installation practices, and your cabinets will enjoy a long service life on a metal stud wall.