Installing cabinets on drywall with metal studs requires some special considerations compared to mounting on wood studs. Metal studs are thinner and harder than wood, so traditional installation techniques don’t always work. With the right tools and methods, you can securely fasten cabinets to metal studs and end up with a sturdy result.
Preparation Steps for Installing Cabinets on Metal Studs
Proper planning and preparation are key to successfully installing cabinets on drywall with metal studs. Here are some important steps to take before mounting the cabinets:
Determine the stud layout – Use a stud finder to locate all the metal studs behind the drywall and mark their locations. Studs are usually spaced 16 inches apart but confirm the exact layout.
Select appropriate fasteners – Self-tapping metal screws are ideal for screwing into metal studs. Pre-drill holes so the screws can penetrate easily. Other good options are toggle bolts or molly bolts which anchor behind the stud.
Add reinforcement – Metal studs alone may not be enough support. Consider attaching 3/4 inch plywood strips vertically over the studs to reinforce them before installing the cabinets.
Use extra toggles/anchors – For heavy upper cabinets, include additional toggles or anchors in the center space between studs to provide greater support for the weight.
Check for plumbing and wiring – Scan for any plumbing lines or electrical wiring in the wall so you don’t drill into them accidentally when fastening the cabinets.
Have proper tools – Power drill, drill bits, driver bits, screwdrivers, stud finder, level, framing hammer and safety gear like goggles and work gloves.
Use shims – Have wood or plastic shims available to level cabinets and fill any gaps behind or beneath them.
Mounting Cabinets Directly to Metal Studs
If the cabinets are lightweight, you may be able to mount them directly against the metal studs. Here is the process:
Mark stud locations – After locating the studs, make vertical lines using a pencil and level to mark their center points. These will serve as your drilling guide.
Prep the cabinets – Lay the cabinets face down on a soft surface. Pre-drill pilot holes through the back panel or frame at the exact spots where you will be driving screws into the studs.
Lift and position the cabinets – Have a helper lift the cabinet and hold it in place against the wall. Align the pre-drilled holes with the stud center lines.
Attach to studs – Use self-tapping metal screws to anchor the cabinet to the studs through the pre-drilled holes. A power drill on a low torque setting is best for this.
Use toggles between if needed – If screws alone seem insufficient, also use toggles or molly bolts in the spaces between studs for added strength.
Check for plumb and level – Verify the cabinet is completely vertical and horizontal using a level tool. Adjust as needed by tightening screws or inserting shims.
Secure adjacent cabinets – For multiple cabinets, join them together through the face frames. Make sure the row remains level.
Install countertop and hardware – Once all cabinets are installed soundly, add the countertop. Then install any hardware like hinges, knobs and drawer glides.
Steps for Using Plywood Backing
For heavy upper cabinets or in high-traffic areas, reinforcing the metal studs is a good idea:
Cut backing strips – Take 3/4 inch plywood and cut into vertical strips, 3-4 inches wide. These should be long enough to span from floor to ceiling.
Secure strips to studs – Use drywall screws to anchor the plywood strips directly over the center of each metal stud. Predrill holes first for easier driving.
Check for straightness – Use a long level to verify the strips are completely plumb before proceeding.
Mark stud locations on strips – Mark a vertical line down each plywood strip to outline the exact stud center beneath it.
Prep and mount cabinets – Now you can pre-drill and fasten into the wood backing strips just like with wall studs. This provides greater holding strength.
Fill gaps if needed – Insert wood shims between the plywood and drywall to take up any gaps and make the backing even more solid.
Tips for Proper Cabinet Installation
Here are some additional pointers to ensure your cabinets mount securely on metal stud drywall:
- Clamp cabinets together temporarily before driving screws to keep them aligned.
- Wipe away excess debris and dust before mounting cabinets for better adherence.
- Apply a bead of adhesive like Liquid Nails between cabinets and wall for added stability.
- Use washers on screws going into metal to prevent pulls out.
- Drive screws perpendicular to the wall so force is distributed evenly.
- Alternate screws top and bottom to draw the cabinet flat against the wall.
- Install upper cabinets first so they are supported beneath by lowers.
- Keep screwdriver contact tight in screw head to avoid stripping out metal studs.
- Don’t overtighten screws. Snug is enough to provide good anchoring.
Hanging Cabinets on Drywall Only
If there are no studs where you want to place cabinets, you can fasten them directly to the drywall using hollow wall anchors. Here is how:
Mark cabinet layout – Determine exact cabinet positioning and use a level to draw plumb lines showing corners and edges.
Select proper anchors – For heavy cabinets, use robust anchors rated for the weight. Some good options are toggle bolts, molly bolts or threaded drywall inserts.
Install anchors – Drill holes slightly smaller than the anchor diameter. Insert anchors and turn until the ends open up behind the drywall firmly.
Prep and mount cabinets – Now pre-drill holes in the cabinet backs aligned over the anchors. Lift into place, align holes and fasten with bolts through the pre-drills into the anchors.
Add support braces – Consider placing horizontal braces along the wall studs above and below the run of cabinets for additional reinforcement.
Check for movement – Give cabinets a gentle push test when done to verify they are completely secured in place and don’t wiggle.
FAQs About Hanging Cabinets on Metal Studs
What size screws should I use for metal studs?
Self-tapping screws with fine threads are best, in sizes #8, #10 or #12. Look for ones specifically designed for fastening to metal.
Do I need special drill bits for metal studs?
High-carbon steel or titanium bits will prevent walking when you drill into metal. Use lubricant to keep drill points from overheating.
Should I pre-drill holes for metal studs?
Yes, you should always pre-drill clearance holes slightly smaller than the screw diameter to prevent threads from stripping in the metal.
Can I hang cabinets directly on metal studs?
Lightweight cabinets may be okay directly on studs, but reinforcement is better. Heavier upper cabinets especially benefit from using plywood backing for full support.
What is the best screwdriver to use on metal studs?
Use high quality magnetic drivers so the bit grips the fastener head snugly. This prevents cam-out stripped screws in metal.
How much weight can metal studs hold?
Around 50 pounds per linear foot is a safe estimate. So 16” studs can hold around 75 lbs per stud. Reinforce when possible for heavy items.
Should I use glue when mounting on metal studs?
Construction adhesive like Liquid Nails is a good idea to create a stronger bond between the cabinets and the wall.
Can I use nail guns on metal studs?
You should not use standard nail guns designed for wood on metal studs, as the fasteners may not hold. Use appropriate screws instead.
Conclusion
Installing kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities on drywall with metal studs is definitely achievable with the proper techniques. The key steps are using suitable fasteners like self-tapping metal screws, reinforcing the studs wherever necessary, pre-drilling all holes, and ensuring a snug attachment. With careful planning and strategic use of anchors, toggles and plywood backing, you can end up with cabinets that are very sturdy, secure and long-lasting on metal stud walls. Just take things slow and steady. Follow the recommendations outlined here for how to safely and successfully hang cabinets on drywall with metal studs, and you will get professional looking results.