How to Mount on the Side of a Metal File Cabinet

Installing mounts on the side of a metal file cabinet can provide additional storage and work space. With some planning and the right hardware, mounting shelves, hooks, and other organizational items is an achievable DIY project. Here is an in-depth guide on how to securely mount items on the side of a metal file cabinet.

Choosing Mounting Hardware

When choosing hardware to mount things onto the side of a metal file cabinet, consider the following:

Screws

• Self-tapping screws specifically made for metal provide the best grip. They tap their own thread as they are screwed in.
• Look for screws at least 1 inch long to ensure adequate penetration into the cabinet side wall.
• Hex head and pan head screws tend to provide better contact and driving than Phillips head screws.

Anchors

• Toggle anchors that expand behind the wall provide a very secure mount.
• Hollow wall anchors can work well but try to find ones made for metal.
• Threaded metal sleeves can accept machine screws for a durable fastener.

Other Hardware

• Nuts and bolts can be used if there is access to the interior cabinet wall.
• Magnets offer a removable option but check pull strength needed for the mount.
• 2-part epoxy can bond mounts to the cabinet but makes for a permanent install.

Mounting Best Practices

Follow these best practices when mounting items onto a metal file cabinet for safety and durability:

Weight Distribution

• Try to mount items evenly across both sides of the cabinet to balance weight.
• Mount heavier items near the bottom to keep the cabinet stable.
• Keep total weight mounted within recommended limits for the cabinet.

Spacing

• Allow at least 2 inches between mounts to prevent distorting the cabinet side walls over time.
• Keep mounts at least 6 inches from cabinet edges for stability.
• Space mounts evenly from top to bottom when possible.

Clearances

• Ensure mounted items do not block the cabinet drawers from rolling out.
• Mounts should not interfere with cabinet doors swinging open.
• Allow room for items stored inside the cabinet to slide past mounts.
• Check for any vent holes that need to remain unobstructed.

Load Testing

• Test mounts with light loading to verify security before relying on them for heavier items.
• Gradually increase load used over time to check for any loosening of mounts.
• Ensure mounts are tightened securely but not to the point of stripping threads.

Preparing the File Cabinet

Take the following steps when preparing the filing cabinet for installation of side mounts:

Clean Surface

• Wipe down the cabinet side walls with a cleaner degreaser and let dry fully.
• Remove any protruding cabinet label edges or pieces of adhesive.
• Eliminate any grease or dirt so mounts adhere tightly.

Check Dimensions

• Measure area of the side wall(s) to get accurate dimensions for drilling.
• Confirm mount items will fit within the available dimensions.
• Make sure mounting holes align over structural ribs or frames.

Mark Holes

• Mark intended mount holes lightly in pencil allowing proper spacing.
• Ensure holes line up with interior cabinet frame if possible.
• Make marks dark enough to see after cabinets sides are scratched up from drilling.

Drill Pilot Holes

• Use a sharp drill bit slightly smaller than the screw diameter to drill straight pilot holes.
• Drill slowly through the metal allowing the bit to cut rather than warp the hole.
• Vacuum away metal filings to prevent interference with mounts.

Mounting Items to the File Cabinet

Follow best practices when installing your attachments securely onto the prepared file cabinet:

Protect Surfaces

• Put down cotton cloths or pads around the work area to prevent scratches.
• Mask off any nearby cabinet surfaces to protect from metal filings.

Use Proper Drill Speed

• Consult drill documentation to determine ideal RPM for metal thickness. Variable speed is best.
• Start drilling slowly at first to make sure the bit stays centered.
• Apply firm pressure but don’t force the drill to avoid breaking the bit.

Minimize Wobbling

• Use a center punch on pilot hole centers to keep the bit stable.
• Hold the drill firmly and perpendicular to the surface.
• Take care not to tilt the drill side-to-side while pushing through.

Alternate Screw Tightening

• Tighten opposing corner screws in increments to draw mounts tight evenly.
• Work in crisscross pattern if installing multiple screws.
• Take care not to strip screw heads or overtighten.

Recheck Security

• Verify mounts are flush and firmly gripping after complete install.
• Test loading the mounts per the load testing best practices.
• Check for any loosening or shifting after a few days of use.

Helpful Tips and Precautions

Keep the following tips and precautions in mind for safely and successfully installing side mounts on a metal filing cabinet:

• Use a helper to support mounts when drilling and driving screws.
• Wear safety glasses to prevent eye injury from metal fragments.
• Drill slowly through metal filing cabinets to avoid drill bit breakage.
• Vacuum carefully around the work area to clean up all metal bits and filings.
• Avoid touching sharp metal edges of the cabinet sides after drilling.
• Take precautions against tipping if mounting heavy items high up.
• Ensure all anchors, screws, and mounts used are specified for use with metal.
• Tighten all hardware securely, but not to the point of stripping threads.
• Periodically check side mounts for any loosening over time and retighten.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully install shelf mounts, hooks, and other accessories onto the side walls of a metal filing cabinet. Always take appropriate safety precautions and distribute weight appropriately. Feel free to get creative with handy side mounts to enhance your storage abilities!

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of things can be mounted on the side of a file cabinet?

You can mount a wide variety of items on the side of a metal file cabinet, such as shelves, racks, bins, hooks, trays, whiteboards, calendars, bulletin boards, and more. Get creative with things that can maximize your organizational needs!

How much weight can be mounted on a file cabinet side?

Most standard metal file cabinets can safely accommodate between 20-50 pounds mounted on each sidewall, provided you follow spacing and distribution best practices. Check your cabinet specifications and test with light loading first.

Should I hire a professional to mount things on my filing cabinet?

While it is always an option, mounting items on a metal filing cabinet sides is generally a very achievable DIY project for most people with some basic tools and know-how. Just be sure to use proper mounting hardware and follow precautionary steps.

What tools do I need to mount things on the side of a metal cabinet?

Common tools needed are a drill, drill bits, screwdrivers, center punch, hammer, pencil, tape measure, level, safety glasses, vacuum, and cleaner/degreaser. Always use sharp drill bits for metal and purchase appropriate wall anchors.

How can I determine proper screw sizing and spacing?

Most cabinet manufacturers recommend at least 1″ long screws spaced a minimum of 2″ apart and 6″ from cabinet edges. Follow their guidelines and test with light loading first. Consider hiring a professional if unsure.

Conclusion

Installing side mounts on a metal filing cabinet can provide you with a wealth of extra organizational capabilities and storage, both vertically and horizontally. With smart planning using the right mounting hardware and proper preparation of the filing cabinet sides, the installation process can be straightforward. Always take appropriate safety precautions, distribute weight evenly, and test mounts initially with light loading. Employing the techniques outlined above will allow you to gain expanded practical use from metal filing cabinets through side mounts.