Installing metal kitchen wall cabinets can completely transform the look and functionality of your kitchen. With sturdy metal construction and sleek modern styling, these cabinets provide ample storage while adding visual interest to your space. Mounting metal wall cabinets properly is key to getting them level and secure. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn the complete process from start to finish.
Choose the Right Metal Wall Cabinets
When selecting metal wall cabinets, consider size, style and material. Common widths for base wall cabinets are 12″, 18″, 24″ and 30″. Standard heights include 30″ and 36″. Opt for 18″ deep cabinets for adequate room for dishes and cookware. Look for solid steel or aluminum construction for durability. Thermally fused laminate and wood veneer cabinets offer an attractive finish. Opt for concealed or soft-closing hinges and doors for a modern, streamlined look. Choose knob or handle hardware in a finish that coordinates with your overall kitchen design.
Gather the Necessary Materials and Tools
Installing metal wall cabinets requires careful preparation and the right equipment. Be sure you have the following materials on hand:
- Metal wall cabinets
- Screws appropriate for your wall type
- Drill and drill bits
- Level
- Stud finder
- Socket wrench set
- Hammer
- Pencil
- Tape measure
- Masking tape or painter’s tape
You may also need additional supplies like anchors, washers and wire depending on your installation. Having all materials ready beforehand ensures the mounting process goes smoothly from start to finish.
Prepare the Installation Area
Take time to properly prepare your installation area prior to mounting the metal cabinets. This important step will save you time and hassle down the road.
- Remove existing wall cabinets if present using proper tools and techniques.
- Inspect the wall for drywall damage or imperfections and repair as needed to create a smooth mounting surface.
- Clean the wall thoroughly and fill any voids, cracks or holes with spackle compound. Allow to dry completely.
- Use painter’s tape to map out the cabinet location on the wall. Mark stud locations if known.
- Gather tools and materials and place them nearby for easy access during install.
- Read the manufacturer instructions for any specific mounting requirements.
Advance preparation helps avoid surprises and creates an efficient, organized install process.
Find the Wall Studs
Locating the studs in your wall is one of the most important steps for proper metal cabinet installation. Here is how to find them easily:
- Use a high-quality electronic stud finder tool. Slowly move across the marked area and note where it detects studs.
- Confirm stud locations by tapping lightly across the surface. You’ll hear a solid thud when you hit a stud vs. a hollow sound otherwise.
- Use a thin nail to poke the wall at suspected stud locations. It will meet resistance when reaching a stud.
- Look for any visible clues like drywall seams or screw/nail holes that may indicate stud edges.
- Mark confirmed stud centers with painter’s tape for handy reference during mounting.
Accurately finding and marking stud locations provides strong anchoring points for securely mounting your cabinets.
Determine Cabinet Placement
With your studs marked, now decide the optimal placement for your metal cabinets:
- Reference your original kitchen plans and tape outline for ideal cabinet location and spacing.
- Ensure cabinets are centered over studs whenever possible for maximum stability. Adjust location slightly if needed.
- For corner cabinets, locate studs on each connecting wall and use to anchor sides/back panel.
- Allow proper clearance above countertops and around doors/windows when placing near these features.
- Arrange cabinets in a logical order for kitchen work flow based on sink, stove and refrigerator location.
- Maintain consistent spacing between cabinets and appropriate height from countertops.
- Make adjustments using a level until you determine the perfect placement for each cabinet.
Taking time to find the ideal position for wall cabinets makes the overall installation process smoother.
Mark Screw Hole Locations
Now that cabinet location is decided, mark where screws will attach them to the wall:
- Rest the empty cabinet in position on the wall and use a level to ensure it is plumb.
- Open the door(s) to access the interior sides. Note where the wall studs align with pre-drilled cabinet screw holes.
- Mark these hole locations lightly in pencil directly on the wall. Include at least two marks over each stud if possible.
- For holes that don’t align with studs, mark the intended anchor locations. Consider sturdy toggle bolts or molly bolts.
- Remove the cabinet and double check all marks are level before proceeding. Adjust if needed.
- Use a nail or awl to gently score or dimple the holes to help prevent drill bit wandering later.
Accurate screw hole marking prevents mistakes and keeps cabinets properly aligned during installation.
Drill Pilot Holes
Pilot holes allow screws to drive directly into studs without splitting the wood. Follow these steps:
- Use a drill bit slightly narrower than your cabinet mounting screws, usually 1/8″ diameter.
- Drill pilot holes at all marks that align over studs. Drill 1-1/2″ to 2″ deep.
- For marks without studs, use a bit wide enough for your chosen anchors. Drill depth per anchor requirements.
- Insert anchors fully into the drilled holes, tapping gently with a hammer if needed to get them flush.
- Take your time drilling straight pilot holes to prevent issues driving in screws.
- Clean up any burrs around holes before proceeding using sandpaper or a file.
Proper pilot holes improve security and allow screws to seat flush with the cabinet frame.
Attach Cabinets to Wall Studs
With your holes prepped, now securely fasten cabinets to marked studs:
- Hold cabinet in correct position and insert screws into top pilot holes. Partially tighten.
- Check level and make any necessary adjustments before inserting remaining screws.
- Tighten all screws over studs fully until screw head is flush with cabinet frame. Do not over tighten.
- For holes with anchors, insert mounting screws and tighten per manufacturer instructions.
- Close doors and check alignment of cabinet sides with adjacent cabinets. Adjust as needed.
- Add decorative caps or covers over any exposed screw heads for a cleaner appearance.
Attaching firmly to studs provides a sturdy mounting that can handle the weight and everyday use of wall-mounted metal cabinets.
Caulk and Seal Cabinets
Filling gaps with caulk finishes your cabinets for a polished look:
- Run a quality silicone caulk bead along top and side edges where cabinet meets wall.
- Use painters tape on either side of the caulk line to contain the caulk and create straight edges.
- Smooth the caulk with a damp fingertip before it dries for a seamless look. Remove tape promptly.
- Allow caulk to fully cure overnight before using cabinets. The seal prevents messy spills and traps grease.
- For corner cabinets, caulk the seam where the two cabinet sides meet in the corner.
- Caulk around any filler panels to hide edges and gaps from view.
Proper caulking and sealing prevents damage from spills and moisture while giving your new metal cabinets a perfect finished appearance.
Troubleshooting Common Metal Wall Cabinet Installation Issues
Even with proper planning and preparation, you may encounter a few issues when installing metal wall cabinets:
Cabinets Won’t Sit Flush on Wall
- Check for protruding drywall screws or nails that prevent flush mounting.
- Ensure mounting holes align correctly with wall studs. Adjust as needed.
- Use shims under cabinets to fill any wall gaps if studs recede.
Doors Won’t Close Properly
- Confirm cabinets hang plumb and are screwed firmly into studs.
- Adjust doors using built-in hinges until proper reveal is achieved on all sides.
- Remove doors and re-mount if warping prevents proper closure.
Cabinets Appear Crooked or Misaligned
- Verify all cabinets were mounted level with a torpedo level.
- Check sides and face of cabinets for warping that causes misalignment.
- Re-mount individual cabinets as needed if unable to align them properly.
Caulk Cracks or Peels After Curing
- Ensure all surfaces were clean and dry before applying caulk.
- Apply fresh caulk to fill in and smooth cracks or gaps in existing caulk beads.
While the chance of issues is minimal with careful installation, these troubleshooting tips help get metal wall cabinets mounted properly.
Maintaining Your Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Once installed, properly caring for your metal cabinets preserves their beauty and function. Follow these maintenance tips:
- Use microfiber cloths and mild cleaner to keep cabinet exteriors dirt- and grease-free. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Immediately clean up spills on cabinet fronts and interiors to prevent staining.
- Tighten any loosening hardware like hinges or pulls as needed over time.
- Check for moisture damage if located near sinks or appliances and repair as needed.
- Re-caulk any areas where sealant appears cracked or peeling to prevent moisture intrusion.
- Avoid placing excess strain on doors and drawers by evenly distributing contents.
- Move dishes or bottles carefully to prevent scratches on cabinet interior surfaces.
- Consider professionals for any needed dent repair, resurfacing or repainting over time.
With proper care and maintenance, your durable metal kitchen cabinets will keep your kitchen looking like new for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mounting Metal Kitchen Wall Cabinets
What type of screw should I use to mount metal cabinets to studs?
Use #8 or #10 pan head wood screws that are around 2.5″ to 3″ long for securely fastening metal cabinets to wood studs. Pre-drill appropriately sized pilot holes first.
Should I mount a metal corner wall cabinet to just one wall stud?
No, secure it firmly to studs on both adjoining walls whenever possible for maximum stability and proper alignment.
Can I mount a metal wall cabinet directly into drywall without hitting studs?
You can, but this will require substantial hollow wall anchors and will not provide as sturdy of a mounting. Hitting studs is best.
How much weight can metal wall cabinets typically hold?
Quality metal cabinets installed into studs can hold around 50 pounds comfortably per linear foot. Spread weight evenly across shelves for best results.
Should I remove doors and shelves before mounting metal cabinets?
Yes, you’ll have easier access to interior mounting holes and walls for pilots holes with everything removed temporarily.
Mounting metal kitchen wall cabinets helps expand storage and work space in your kitchen when done properly. Follow these tips for seamlessly integrating new metal cabinets on your wall and enjoying them for years to come.