How to Install Wall Cabinets on Metal Studs
Installing wall cabinets on metal studs requires some special considerations compared to mounting on wood studs. With the right preparation and materials, you can securely attach your wall cabinets to metal framing.
Planning Your Cabinet Installation on Metal Studs
Before starting installation, take time to plan out the cabinet placement.
- Mark the location of the metal studs on the wall. You will need to attach the wall cabinets directly into the studs.
- Consider the size and weight of the cabinets. Heavier units may require additional blocking between studs for support.
- Determine the height for the bottom of the wall cabinet. The standard height is 54 inches above the floor.
- Have the necessary hardware and tools on hand before beginning. Self-tapping metal screws are ideal for fastening to metal studs.
What You Need to Install Cabinets on Metal Studs
Ensure you have the following materials available:
- Wall cabinets and shelves
- Screws designated for metal studs (self-tapping metal screws)
- Electric drill and drill bits
- Level
- Stud finder
- Hammer
- Masking tape or pencil
Optional but helpful:
- Solid blocking to span between studs
- Cabinet shims
- Chalk line
Finding and Marking the Metal Studs
Locating the metal studs accurately is crucial for secure wall cabinet installation. Here are some tips:
- Use an electronic stud finder suitable for metal framing. Run the stud finder vertically along the wall to mark each stud location.
- Verify stud locations by knocking on the wall and listening for a solid sound. Hollow areas indicate where there is no stud.
- Use masking tape or pencil to mark the center and edges of each stud on the wall. Studs are often 16 inches apart.
- Mark stud locations along the floor and ceiling as reference points. Use a chalk line or laser level if needed.
- Make sure you will be able to attach the cabinet hanging rails into the center of the studs.
Adding Blocking for Extra Support
For heavy cabinets, bridge the gap between studs by installing blocking.
- Cut 2×4 wood blocks to fit snugly between the metal studs.
- Screw through the sides of the stud into the ends of the wood blocking using self-tapping metal screws.
- You can also use metal blocking designed for this purpose.
- Install blocking where walls studs align with the edges and center of the cabinets.
How to Attach Cabinets to Metal Studs
Follow these steps to securely install wall cabinets on metal stud framing:
1. Determine Cabinet Placement
- Hold the wall cabinet in the desired installation location.
- Adjust until the cabinet back lines up with stud center markings.
- Mark the corners or top edge of the cabinet.
2. Attach Mounting Rails
- Screw cabinet rail into the top and bottom of the back of the cabinet.
- Ensure at least two rails will align with studs.
3. Level and Mark Holes
- Set the cabinet back on the wall marks in the exact desired position.
- Use a level to make sure the cabinet is plumb and level.
- Mark pilot holes through mounting rails into the stud centers.
4. Drill Holes
- Take cabinet down and drill pilot holes into the stud markings.
- Use a carbide drill bit for metal studs.
5. Mount Cabinet
- Use self-tapping screws to securely fasten the cabinet rails into the metal studs.
- Do not completely tighten yet in case adjustments are needed.
- Recheck level; use shims if there are any gaps.
- Tighten all screws completely once level.
- Install remaining cabinets in the same manner.
Tips for Hanging Cabinets on Metal Studs
- Make sure screws are long enough to fully penetrate the stud thickness.
- Use washers to help distribute weight on the screws.
- Drill extra holes in the center stud if necessary for heavy cabinets.
- Fill gaps with shims where the cabinet back does not directly contact the wall.
- Consider using toggle bolts at the ends of a cabinet run for added support.
- Apply painter’s caulk around cabinets for a clean finish on uneven walls.
With proper planning and installation, you can gain a really firm mount for wall cabinets on metal stud walls. Taking the time to securely fasten the cabinets will provide long-lasting function and beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions about Installing Wall Cabinets on Metal Studs
Can I use the same screws for metal studs as for wood studs?
No, you need to use self-tapping screws specifically designed for fastening into metal when working with metal studs. Do not attempt to use wood screws or drywall screws.
What kind of stud finder works best for metal studs?
Use an electronic stud finder that has a metal stud setting. These can also detect pipes and wires behind walls. Avoid magnetic stud finders which are not reliable for metal stud finding.
How do I locate the studs if my stud finder doesn’t work well?
You can try knocking on the wall starting from a corner to listen for changes in sound. Alternately, use small finishing nails to probe for studs, starting about 16 inches from a corner.
Should I attach a cleat behind the cabinets for added support?
On metal studs, a horizontal cleat is not usually needed. Attaching cabinets directly into vertical studs provides ample strength. But for heavy upper cabinets, a cleat can provide extra stability.
What do I do if a cabinet end lands in the middle of a stud?
Use blocking between the studs under those end cabinets to fully support them. Make sure screws penetrate the stud and blocking at the cabinet corners.
How do I ensure the cabinets stay flush with uneven walls?
Be prepared to use shims where needed for any uneven spots. Place shims above screw locations between the cabinet back and wall before tightening screws.
Conclusion
Installing kitchen wall cabinets on metal studs is made much easier by using the proper tools, planning carefully, and anchoring firmly into the studs. Pay close attention to locating the studs accurately and adding extra bracing when needed. With sturdy metal fasteners and secure attachment direct to studs, you can gain rock-solid mounting for hanging wall cabinets. Taking the time to do it right will result in a kitchen cabinet installation that will stand the test of time.
