How to Mount Cabinets to Metal Studs

Introduction

Mounting cabinets securely is an essential part of any kitchen or bathroom remodel. While wood studs provide plenty of strength for cabinet installation, metal studs require some special considerations. Properly mounting cabinets to metal studs may seem daunting, but with the right techniques and materials, you can achieve a sturdy base for your cabinetry.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through all the steps for mounting cabinets to metal studs. We will cover finding the studs, choosing the right fasteners, using blocking and braces for extra strength, and best practices for a seamless installation. With the information below, you will gain the confidence to take on this important project and get professional-looking results.

Locating the Metal Studs

The first step is locating precisely where the metal studs are in your wall. While wood studs are easy to identify by tapping along the wall, metal studs need a different approach. Here are some tips for finding the studs:

• Use a stud finder specifically designed for locating metal studs. These use magnetic or electronic sensors to identify studs behind the wall surface.
• Look for drywall screws that attach the drywall to the metal studs. You will see them in a straight vertical line marking the stud location.
• Refer to your building plans if available. These usually indicate the spacing and locations of the wall studs.
• Metal studs are often spaced 16 inches or 24 inches apart, in a regular interval. Measure and mark to find the pattern.
• Use rare earth magnets moving vertically along the wall to detect nails or screws attaching the studs.

Once you locate the studs, mark them clearly for easy reference when holding the cabinets in place. Make sure to mark the height as well, as metal studs do not run floor to ceiling.

Choosing the Right Fasteners

Standard wood screws will not hold in metal studs. You need specialized self-tapping metal screws that can bore through and grip into the thin metal. Here are some options:

• Self-drilling drywall screws – These have sharp threads that cut into metal and a drilling tip to bore through. Use 1 1/4″ to 1 1/2″ sizes.
• Self-tapping sheet metal screws – They have sharper threads than drywall screws for optimal holding in metal. Choose at least 1 1/4″ length.
• Tek screws – These come with hex washer heads in various head styles. They have deep, sharp threading and great holding power.
• Toggle bolts – If you need to mount into hollow studs, use these expanding bolts. The wings collapse on insertion and expand inside the wall.

Make sure to get screws long enough to penetrate at least 3/4″ into the stud through any cabinet back boards. Stainless steel screws provide the best durability.

Using Blocking for Extra Support

For maximum strength, it is advisable to install horizontal blocking between the vertical metal studs where cabinets will mount. Here’s how:

• Cut 2×4 lumber into blocks that fit snugly between the studs where needed.
• Screw through the stud into the end of each block using 3″ drywall screws. Two screws per end are sufficient.
• Alternatively, use heavy-duty steel angle brackets to secure blocks between studs.

The installed blocks give you solid wood material to screw into at any height. This prevents cabinets from pulling away or sagging over time.

Bracing Cabinets Together

Even with proper mounting to studs, tall cabinets can sometimes lean or twist out of alignment. Bracing them together adds stability. Here are two options:

Wall Cleats

• Mount a horizontal 1×4 or 2×2 cleat board onto two studs at the desired cabinet height.
• Attach the backs of both cabinets securely into the cleat using 2-1/2″ screws.

Corner Gussets

• Use metal 90° corner braces inside touching cabinet corners.
• Screw each side into the cabinets using 1″ drywall screws.

This ties the cabinet boxes together preventing sideways twisting or separation. Use gussets high and low for maximum effectiveness.

Installation Best Practices

Follow these tips for the strongest, most professional mounting job:

• Ensure cabinets are level front to back and side to side before mounting. Shim as needed.
• Drill clearance holes in cabinet backs at screw locations to prevent splitting.
• Use washers on screws into metal studs to prevent pull through.
• Ensure screws penetrate studs vertically, not at an angle, for best holding strength.
• Use fender washers or plywood scraps to distribute weight on hollow metal studs.
• Cinch screws down tight, but not so tight that you strip the holes.
• For upper cabinets, install a ledger board on the wall to support the cabinet’s weight.

Adhering to these best practices will result in cabinets that mount tightly and permanently to your metal stud walls.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of screws should I use to mount cabinets to metal studs?

Use self-tapping metal screws at least 1 1/4″ long, such as self-drilling drywall screws or sheet metal screws. Make sure they are designed to grip metal.

How do I find and mark the stud locations on my metal frame wall?

Use a stud finder made for metal, look for drywall screw patterns, measure intervals, or use magnets to locate studs. Mark the locations clearly for easy reference.

Should I install blocking between the studs for extra support?

Yes, installing wood blocking gives you more solid material to screw into. Attach blocks using 3″ drywall screws or brackets.

What is the best way to keep tall cabinets stable?

Brace cabinets together using horizontal cleats or interior corner gussets and screws. This prevents twisting and leaning over time.

What size screws should I use to mount cabinets to metal studs?

Use at least 1 1/4″ to 1 1/2″ screws long so they fully penetrate the cabinet back boards and studs by 3/4″ minimum.

Conclusion

Mounting cabinets securely to metal studs is doable with the right techniques. By using specialized screws, adding blocking, bracing cabinets, and following best practices, you can achieve a solid, long-lasting cabinet installation. Be sure to locate the studs precisely, use heavy-duty fasteners designed for metal, and install blocking between studs for increased stability. With attention to detail and the steps above, you can gain the confidence to mount your cabinets to metal framing and get professional-looking results.