Hanging cabinets in a metal building can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and the right techniques, you can successfully install sturdy, level cabinets that will last for years to come. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of hanging cabinets in a metal building, from choosing the right materials and preparing the walls, to actually mounting the cabinets and adding final touches. Follow these tips and you’ll have functional, aesthetically-pleasing cabinetry that adds storage and value to your metal structure.

Choosing Materials for Hanging Cabinets in a Metal Building

When selecting materials for hanging cabinets in a metal building, you need products that can withstand temperature fluctuations, moisture, and potential vibration from exterior wind and noise. Here are the best options to consider:

Cabinet Box Construction

Look for cabinet boxes made of moisture-resistant plywood or engineered wood. Avoid particleboard or MDF, which can swell and degrade over time in a metal building. The most durable options include:

• Plywood – Look for cabinet-grade plywood like Baltic Birch. Avoid porous types like Lauan. Optimal thickness is 3⁄4”.
• Melamine – Particleboard coated in moisture-resistant melamine laminate is a budget-friendly option. Select thick, sturdy melamine for best results.
• Thermofoil – A more durable version of laminate using thermally-fused vinyl sheets. Resists moisture better than melamine.
• Metal – Steel or aluminum cabinet boxes are lightweight yet sturdy. Often used for garage cabinets in metal buildings.

Cabinet Doors and Drawer Fronts

For cabinet fronts, stick with durable, non-porous surfaces:

• Plywood – Use moisture-resistant plywood stained, painted, or laminated for protection.
• Thermofoil – Same as above, provides a decorative, scratch-resistant finish.
• Metal – Steel or aluminum cabinet doors add style while resisting moisture. Often found on garage or workshop cabinets.
• Glass – Glass cabinet inserts look fantastic. Use tempered glass and proper mounting brackets.

Hanging Hardware

For mounting cabinets directly to metal walls, you’ll need:

• Lag bolts – Pre-drill holes and use lag bolts to bolt through cabinets into metal framing. Minimum 3/8″ x 3″ size recommended.
• Fender washers – Use oversized fender washers under lag bolt heads to reinforce connections.
• Metal tracks – Tracks like Unistrut securely fasten cabinets and provide adjustable horizontal slots.

Shelving and Interior Fittings

• Metal shelves – Durable steel shelves resist moisture and hold heavy items. Can be slotted into Unistrut tracks.
• Drawer slides – Look for full extension ball bearing slides rated for 100+ lbs. Consider soft-close technology.
• Hinges – Self-closing hinges keep cabinets closed securely. Choose corrosion-resistant stainless steel.

Preparing Metal Walls for Cabinet Installation

Proper preparation is key to effectively mounting cabinets on metal walls. Follow these steps:

Check for Solid Mounting Points

• Inspect walls for sturdy underlying vertical studs or horizontal girts. These solid metal supports are essential for securely fastening cabinets.
• Use a stud finder or magnet to locate studs/girts behind the wall surface. Mark locations with tape or permanent marker.
• If needed, install additional backing where cabinets will be hung using strut, furring strips, or plywood panels.

Account for Uneven Surfaces

• Metal walls may not be perfectly smooth and flat. Check for high points and low spots.
• Use shims and washers when mounting cabinets to account for dips or gaps in the wall surface.

Address Insulation Requirements

• Most metal buildings are poorly insulated. Add batt, spray foam, or rigid insulation prior to mounting cabinets.
• Butt cabinets tightly against insulation for maximum thermal performance.
• Alternatively, build out a false wall with plywood over insulation to create a flush mounting surface.

Prepare Mounting Locations

• Mark stud locations on the wall surface where cabinet mounting points will go.
• Clean mounting locations thoroughly to remove oil, dust and debris for best cabinet adhesion.

Hanging Upper Cabinets on a Metal Wall

Follow these steps to securely install upper wall cabinets on your metal building:

Determine Cabinet Location

• Measure and mark the desired height and layout for installing upper cabinets. Standard height is 18” above counter or base cabinets.
• Use a level and chalk line to mark clear horizontal lines guiding cabinet placement.

Mount Wall Cleats Securely

• Attach 2-3” wide cleats made of wood or metal where cabinet mounting rails will go using lag bolts into studs.
• Pre-drill holes and use washers to prevent pulling through soft metal.

Attach Mounting Rails

• Set cabinet rails (usually 1×2” or 1×3” boards along the back top edge) on the cleats.
• Drill pilot holes and screw rails into the cleats using 2-3” weatherproof wood screws.

Hang Cabinet Boxes

• Lift cabinet box into position, resting rail on the mounted cleats.
• Insert shims above rails if needed to fill any gaps behind the cabinet.
• Pre-drill and drive 3-4 lag bolts with washers into each wall stud through back rails.

Install Shelving and Hardware

• With cabinets hung securely, install shelving, doors, drawers, and hardware per manufacturer’s instructions.
• Test doors/drawers for proper closure and adjust as needed.

Installing Base Cabinets on a Metal Building Floor

For a stable base to build upon, mount sturdy base cabinets by:

Prepare the Floor

• Sweep and clean installation area thoroughly.
• Check for level and address any uneven spots on the floor using shims.

Layout Cabinet Locations

• Mark plumb lines on the floor to guide cabinet placement and spacing.
• Indicate locations for corner cabinets first, then build layout outwards.

Fasten Mounting Strips

• Screw continuous 3-4” wide wood or metal mounting strips into floor along the wall studs.
• Use lag bolts pre-drilled into floor girts covered by washers.

Set & Fasten Cabinets

• Place base cabinets onto mounting strips, keeping front edges plumb with guide lines.
• Drill pilot holes through the cabinet base into the strips and drive 3-4” lag bolts into each floor girt.
• Make any final adjustments to level cabinets before tightening bolts fully.
• Scribe and trim cabinet sides to match uneven walls if needed.

Complete Cabinet Installation

• Install countertops, doors, drawers, and hardware using the provided instructions.
• Seal around base cabinets with caulk to prevent moisture intrusion.

Installing a Metal Building Kitchen Island

A kitchen island adds storage and prep space. Follow this process to add one:

Build a Sturdy Base

• Construct a base from 2×4 or 2×6 framing timber. Cut braces and legs to size.
• Assemble base frame using corrosion resistant screws and construction adhesive.
• Add plywood gussets on sides if needed for extra support.

Include Plumbing and Power

• Drill holes and install any needed plumbing or drain pipes into the island frame.
• Run wiring through framing and install outlets on sides or bottom of island.

Attach the Top

• Cut countertop slightly oversized. Set on island frame and check for overhang.
• Bolt securely through framing into underside of the countertop using large fender washers.

Add Trim

• Attach decorative trim and molding using waterproof adhesive and finish nails.
• Use silicone caulk to seal seams and prevent moisture penetration.

Finish with Storage

• Set desired sink and fixtures into pre-cut holes in countertop.
• Install cabinet doors and drawers to sides of island per manufacturer’s instructions.

Installing Wall-Mounted Shelving in a Metal Building

Take advantage of vertical space by mounting shelving directly to metal walls. Here’s how:

Select Moisture-Resistant Shelves

• Wood shelves should be factory-finished with protective laminate or moisture-sealing paint/stain.
• Metal shelves last longer than raw wood. Choose corrosion-resistant steel or aluminum.

Mark Mounting Holes

• Determine desired shelve height and mark stud locations at mounting points.
• Mark holes at stud positions along the back edge of each shelf.

Pre-Drill Holes

• Use a drill bit slightly smaller than shelf support size to pre-drill marked holes.
• Drill into studs, not just wall surface. This prevents fastener tear-out.

Mount Shelf Standards

• Hold shelf standards vertically and align with pre-drilled holes.
• Drive lag bolts through standards into studs using flat washers to reinforce.

Set Shelves

• Rest shelves on standards in desired configuration.
• Test weight capacity before loading fully.

Hanging a TV on a Metal Building Wall

Follow these instructions to securely mount a TV on your metal building’s wall:

Choose a Tilting Mounting Arm

• A tilting TV mount allows optimum viewing angle adjustment, which is helpful in metal buildings.
• Ensure the mount is rated to safely hold the weight of your specific TV model.

Locate Studs

• Find where internal wall studs align with your desired TV position.
• Use a stud finder to detect studs behind the wall and mark locations.

Attach the Mounting Bracket

• Hold base bracket against the wall at your stud markings.
• Pre-drill holes for lag bolts into the studs using a bit slightly smaller than the bolts.
• Drive lag bolts through the base bracket into the studs using washers.

Hang the TV

• Attach the TV to the tilting arm per the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Follow directions to level the TV, lock mechanisms, and adjust viewing angle.
• Run cables through the mount to hide wires from view.

Adding Trim Molding Around Metal Building Cabinets

Trim molding gives a finished look while covering junctures:

Prepare the Surface

• Fill any gaps or uneven areas around cabinets with putty or filler. Let dry completely.
• Sand any bumps or drips smooth prior to installing trim.

Measure and Cut Trim

• Measure each wall section. Mark and cut trim pieces to fit each individual length.
• For inside corners, miter trim ends at 45 degree angles to create seamless joints.

Attach the Trim

• Run a quality construction adhesive along the back of trim before pressing into place.
• Drive trim nails through the molding every 8-12 inches along the length into the wall.
• Set nails and fill holes with putty. Sand smooth.

Caulk Edges

• Apply a smooth, consistent bead of paintable silicone caulk along all trim edges and seams.
• Wet finger and smooth caulk for a continuous finished look. Allow to fully cure before painting.

Painting Metal Building Cabinets

Follow these tips for the best-looking, most durable painted finish on metal building cabinets:

Clean Surfaces

• Wipe down cabinet surfaces with a deglosser or mild cleaner to remove any oils or dirt.
• Lightly sand glossy surfaces to roughen and improve paint adhesion.

Apply Primer

• Use an oil-based or shellac-based primer specifically formulated for glossy surfaces.
• Apply a thin, even coat according to manufacturer directions. Allow to fully dry.

Paint Cabinets

• Choose a high-quality latex enamel cabinet paint. Semi-gloss or gloss sheens are best for durability and cleaning.
• Apply two finish coats, allowing proper drying time between coats.

Replace Hardware

• Remove doors, handles, and hinges prior to painting. Reattach with new hardware after paint dries.
• For a matching finished look, spray paint hardware the same color as the cabinets.

Check Coverage

• Inspect painted cabinets to ensure you’ve achieved full, even coverage with no thin spots or runs.
• Do touch ups with a small paintbrush and spot prime any missed areas as needed.

Maintaining Cabinets in a Metal Building

Keep your metal building’s cabinets looking like new with proper care and maintenance:

Control Moisture

• Use exhaust fans, dehumidifiers, and air conditioning to manage humidity inside the building.
• Immediately dry any water spills or leaks on cabinet surfaces.

Clean Regularly

• Clean cabinet doors and fronts with mild soap and water using a soft sponge or microfiber cloth.
• For grease buildup, use a degreasing cleaner formulated for kitchen cabinets.

Inspect for Damage

• Watch for signs of swelling, warping, discoloration, and mold/mildew growth indicating moisture issues.
• Fix any plumbing or HVAC leaks promptly to limit damage.

Touch Up Paint

• Spot paint any nicks, scratches, or worn areas on cabinet fronts and doors. Always use the original paint formulation for best results.

Lubricate Hinges

• Apply a small amount of WD40 or silicone spray lube to door hinges as needed to prevent squeaking.

Tighten Hardware

• Periodically check and tighten cabinet bolts, screws, hinges, and handles if any become loose over time.

Conclusion

Installing sturdy, durable cabinets is an important part of finishing out a metal building’s interior storage and living space. With smart material selection, proper preparation and mounting techniques, and consistent maintenance, you can have cabinetry that both looks attractive and stands the test of time in your metal structure. Just be sure to address insulation, moisture protection, cabinet construction, hardware, and wall preparation as outlined above. Follow these best practices for hanging cabinets, and you’ll avoid frustrations while getting professional-grade results!

FAQ on Hanging Cabinets in Metal Buildings

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about installing and maintaining cabinets in metal buildings:

Should I insulate behind cabinets in a metal building?

Yes, it is highly recommended to insulate behind any cabinets or trim you attach directly to metal walls. Filling the voids with rigid foam insulation helps prevent temperature transfer and condensation that can damage cabinets over time.

What thickness of plywood should I use for cabinets in a metal garage?

Moisture-resistant 3⁄4” plywood is ideal for cabinet boxes in metal buildings. 5/8” plywood can also work for wall cabinets, but may sag over time when used for base cabinets supporting heavier loads. Avoid thinner 1⁄2” plywood if possible.

What kind of screws should I use to mount things on metal building walls?

Self-tapping sheet metal screws can work, but lag screws and bolts provide the strongest mounting hold. Always pre-drill properly sized pilot holes and use fender washers.

Should I be concerned about vibration when mounting cabinets in a metal workshop?

Some vibration is inevitable, so use methods to dampen movement. Install shock-absorbing mounts, brace cabinets internally, use adhesives/caulks, and ensure ample mounting screws to reduce vibration effects.

Is it okay to mount or place furniture against metal building insulation?

No. Always maintain the vapor barrier surface of insulation, or build out a separate framed wall. Blocking airflow and compressing insulation can lead to condensation and corrosion issues over time.

How can I get cabinets and trim to mount flush on uneven metal building walls?

Use shims and spacers when needed to account for dips or bows in the wall surface. For trim, you can scribe and cut molding edges to match the wall contours for a tight fit.

What’s the best way to mount a TV on metal building corrugated walls?

Use a tilting wall mount anchored securely into studs behind the corrugated metal surface. Pre-drill oversized holes and use fender washers to prevent tearing the metal at bolt points.

Should I use latex or oil-based paint on metal building cabinets?

For the hardest, glossiest finish, use a high-quality oil-based enamel cabinet paint. But latex enamels also perform well. Just be sure to properly prime and prep the cabinets first.

How can I decrease humidity inside a metal building to help cabinets last?

Manage moisture levels by maintaining proper ventilation, insulating cool areas, and using dehumidifiers or air conditioning units. Address any water intrusion issues immediately as well.

Conclusion

Installing cabinets in a metal building does come with some unique considerations compared to a traditional home. But with smart planning, material selection, preparation, and installation techniques, your metal building cabinets can provide beauty, valuable storage space, and lasting service just like cabinets mounted in any residential or commercial structure. Following the advice in this guide will help ensure your project goes smoothly from start to finish.