Installing cabinets on walls with metal studs requires some special considerations compared to wood stud walls. Metal studs are thinner than wood studs, so you need to take extra steps to ensure the cabinets are securely mounted. With proper planning and the right materials, you can achieve a sturdy installation that will support the weight of the cabinets and contents for many years.
Tips for Hanging Cabinets on Metal Stud Walls
Use Toggle Bolts
One of the best fasteners for mounting cabinets onto metal studs is a toggle bolt. The toggle inserts through the drywall and then springs open behind the wall, creating a clamping effect when tightened that provides a very strong hold. They are capable of supporting heavy loads on thin metal framing.
Find the Studs
Locating the metal studs accurately is critical for secure cabinet installation. Use a stud finder designed for metal studs instead of relying on magnets, which won’t work. Another option is using an awl or finish nail to probe the wall and find the studs by hand. Mark the locations clearly for reference.
Add Backing
For heavy upper cabinets especially over the sink, stove or fridge, it is advisable to add a horizontal metal backing strip anchored across multiple studs to reinforce the mounting area. Use at least 20 gauge metal and screw into at least 3 studs.
Use Toggler Drywall Anchors
For areas without a stud to mount to, use toggler type drywall anchors rated for the cabinet load. They compress when inserted then spring open against the back of the drywall. Pre-drill the holes slightly smaller than the anchor diameter for best results.
Consider Cabinet Construction
Look for cabinets with a strong mounting rail or metal reinforcement plate in the back. Box construction cabinets are also better than frameless models for handling the stress. Keep cabinet contents light if possible.
Add Support Below
For upper cabinets, installing a spacer, cleat or support bracket beneath the cabinets can help transfer some of the load onto the base cabinets below or countertop instead of relying solely on wall anchors.
Allow Proper Screw Penetration
Use #10 or #12 pan head screws long enough to penetrate the stud by at least 1 inch. For toggle bolts, choose the correct insert length to allow the toggles to open fully inside the wall.
Pre-Drill Holes
Drill 1/8″ pilot holes in the cabinet mounting rail to prevent cracking or splitting when the screws are tightened. The holes should go through the rail but not the cabinet box.
Use Appropriate Wall Anchor Spacing
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper spacing between toggles or other hollow wall anchors, usually 16-24 inches apart depending on load. Spread anchors across multiple studs whenever possible.
Shim Under Cabinets If Needed
Small gaps between the wall and cabinet can be shimmed to plumb and level the cabinets. Use tapered wood shims and trim them flush after tightening the cabinet mounting screws fully.
Allow Proper Cabinet Spacing
Leave 1/8″ to 1/4″ gaps between the cabinet sides and walls, as well as between cabinets. This allows room for shifts and prevents cracking from wall movement. Caulk gaps after installation.
Check for Level and Plumb
Use a level and straight edge to verify cabinets are plumb and level as you install them. Make adjustments as needed to ensure doors and drawers align and operate smoothly after installation.
Tools and Materials Needed
Installing cabinets on metal studs requires having the right selection of fasteners, tools and materials readily available. This allows you to securely attach the cabinets to the framing and provides for a smooth installation process.
Essential Fasteners
- Toggle bolts
- Toggler brand hollow wall anchors
- #10 or #12 pan head screws at least 1 1⁄2″ long
- Washers
Hand Tools
- Stud finder (for metal studs)
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdrivers
- Wrench or socket set
- Hammer
- Nail set
- Awl
- Utility knife
- Level
- Straight edge
- Shims
- Wood chisel
Other Supplies
- Bracing or backing strips
- Reinforcement plates
- Wood glue
- Caulk and caulk gun
- Sandpaper
- Rags
- Pencil
- Tape measure
- Ladder
Make sure to use sharp drill bits and high quality wall anchors and screws. Having the proper tools and materials ready before starting will make the installation process go faster and easier.
How to Find the Wall Studs
Locating the metal studs accurately is one of the most important steps when installing cabinets onto a metal stud wall. Since the studs are thin metal, often just 1 5⁄8” wide, you need to pinpoint the exact center of the studs for secure mounting of the cabinet hardware.
Here are some tips to help find the studs:
- Use a stud finder designed for detecting metal studs instead of a magnetic type which won’t work well. Look for a model that detects changes in density.
- Start about 12” from a corner or opening when scanning as there is usually a stud located close to that point.
- Scan vertically in 2’ sections starting about 1 foot up from the floor. Mark edges when signal changes.
- Confirm possible stud center by probing with an awl or nail every few inches in the area. It should land solidly in the stud.
- Measure from your marks to where you hit the stud center to verify 16” or 24” on-center studs. Measure from multiple points.
- Look for drywall seams and screws, which often line up with studs.
- Where possible, use a powerful rare earth magnet slid vertically to feel for the screws attaching the studs.
- As a last resort, drill a small pilot hole or make a 1/8” slit with a utility knife every 1⁄2” until you hit a stud. Repair holes later.
- Mark all stud center locations clearly with a pencil for reference during installation.
Take the time to be precise in locating the metal studs. It will pay off when you are ready to securely mount the cabinets.
How to Add Backing and Reinforcement
For heavy upper cabinets, especially over high usage areas like the kitchen sink, stove or primary bathroom vanity, it is advisable to add reinforcing support to the metal stud wall. There are several options:
Add Wood Backing Spanning Multiple Studs
Cut 1×4, 1×6 or 2×6 wood boards to fit horizontally between at least 3 studs in the mounting area. Anchor into the center of the studs with 3”-4” screws. Plywood can also be used. This provides a sturdy wooden mounting surface.
Install 20 Gauge Metal Backing
Use hat channel, Unistrut metal channel or similar 20 gauge metal strip to span across the studs. Screw into studs every 6-12 inches with #10 x 1 1⁄4” screws. Align screws properly in the stud center.
Use Toggler Snaptoggles on Interior Walls
Snaptoggle heavy duty hollow wall anchors can be installed anywhere on the wall to provide solid screw attachment points. Rate and space them for the expected load. They require a minimum 1 1⁄2″ hole.
Attach Cabinet Reinforcement Plates
Many manufacturers provide optional metal plates that attach to the cabinet backs to reinforce for wall mounting. Also attach them to adjacent cabinets for stability.
Place Spacer Blocking Below Cabinets
Install 2×4 or 2×6 blocking flat against the wall below the upper cabinets. This helps support weight so there is less stress on just the wall fasteners.
Adding backing gives critical extra support for the load of upper cabinets filled with dishes, food and other heavy items. Take time to reinforce the wall properly for reliable performance.
How to Mount Cabinets to Metal Studs
Once you have located the studs and added any necessary backing, you are ready to mount the cabinets securely. Follow these steps for proper installation on a metal stud wall:
Gather Materials
- Cabinet unit
- Screws – #10 or #12 pan head at least 1 1⁄2″ long
- Drill with 1/8” bit
- Stud finder
- Hammer
- Screwdriver or drill
- Toggler drywall anchors if needed
- Toggle bolts if needed
- Washers if needed
- Shims
Prepare the Wall
- Mark stud center locations with painters tape
- Install reinforcing backing strips if needed
- Drill pilot holes where anchors will go
Prepare the Cabinets
- Place cabinet in installation location
- Mark stud locations on cabinet rail
- Pre-drill holes in cabinet rail with 1/8” bit
- Do not drill through cabinet box
Mounting to Studs
- Place cabinet against wall aligned with stud marks
- Insert screws through pre-drilled holes into studs
- Tighten screws until heads are flush with rail
- Do not overtighten to avoid cracking rail
Mounting with Hollow Wall Anchors
- Hold cabinet in position on wall
- Mark anchor screw locations on cabinet
- Move cabinet aside and install anchors
- Hold cabinet to wall aligning with anchors
- Insert screws through cabinet into anchors
- Tighten screws snug but not fully
Finishing Touches
- Tighten all screws fully
- Shim any gaps between wall and cabinet
- Check for plumb and level
- Install remaining cabinets
- Caulk and fill all gaps after installation
Be sure to frequently check for level and plumb as you install the cabinets. Make any necessary adjustments right away to ensure proper cabinet positioning.
How to Hang Wall Cabinets
Hanging wall cabinets on a metal stud wall presents some challenges compared to wood studs. Here are some tips for securely installing wall cabinets over metal framing:
- Locate studs and mark locations as described earlier. Have an extra person hold the cabinet temporarily.
- Place fasteners in the exact center of the studs for maximum holding strength.
- For stud mounting, use at least 2 pan head screws into each stud penetrated by the cabinet mounting rail.
- Where cabinets align between studs, use hollow wall anchors rated for the load. Follow manufacturer spacing guidelines.
- For heavy cabinets, install an additional supporting bracket or ledger board attached to the wall below the cabinet if possible.
- Consider using 3” or 4” lag bolts into the studs instead of screws for very heavy loads. Pre-drill properly sized pilot holes.
- In some cases, use through bolts all the way through the stud for heavier loads. This requires access behind the wall.
- For upper corner cabinets, install fasteners into adjacent walls/studs to provide extra support.
- Check for level frequently and shim where necessary during mounting. Readjust if needed.
- Allow proper spacing between cabinet sides and wall for expansion. Do not overtighten screws.
Proper selection and installation of fasteners combined with additional supports where possible will allow you to safely hang wall cabinets on metal stud framing.
How to Install Base Cabinets on Metal Studs
The techniques for mounting metal stud base cabinets are similar to wall cabinets. Here are some tips:
- Mark all stud center locations on the floor and on cabinet rails.
- Use at least two screws into each stud the cabinet rail spans. More for wider cabinets or heavy loads.
- For in-between studs, use hollow wall anchors suitable for the load. Follow spacing guidelines.
- Consider longer fasteners or through-bolts for heavier base cabinets like sinks and cooktops.
- Shim any gaps behind or below cabinets during mounting to minimize adjustment later.
- For corner cabinets, attach to both walls for maximum stability if feasible.
- Install corner gusset brackets inside upper corners of base cabinets for extra rigidity.
- Keep side gaps between cabinets and walls to 1/8”-1/4″ and caulk after.
- Verify cabinets are level side-to-side and front-to-back. Make any adjustments.
- Secure cabinets together with fasteners through adjacent cabinet boxes if permitted by manufacturer.
Properly mounting metal stud base cabinets is key to providing a stable foundation for countertops and the cabinets that sit above them. Take the time to do it right.
Tips for Hanging Heavy Upper Cabinets
Heavy upper cabinets like those over a kitchen sink or cooktop can be challenging to hang securely on metal stud walls. Here are some tips:
- Use the maximum length screws that will penetrate studs by at least 1 inch.
- Consider using 3-4” lag bolts instead of screws for added strength.
- Attach reinforcement plates if available for the specific cabinet models.
- Add plywood backing between studs under the cabinet location.
- Install horizontal support ledgers under upper cabinet bottoms.
- Place wood blocking laid flat across multiple studs above cabinets.
- Use at least 2 fasteners into each stud if possible for wide cabinets.
- For corner cabinets, attach firmly to both walls for added stability.
- Set upper cabinets on spacers temporarily to hold position while fastening to the wall.
- Do not overload upper cabinets. Keep contents as light as possible.
Hanging heavy upper cabinets securely on metal studs takes careful planning and installation. Using the techniques above will help support the load properly.
How to Install Filler Strips Next to Metal Studs
When installing cabinets, you will often need to attach filler strips or panels next to the cabinets or around windows and doors to close gaps and create a uniform mounting surface. Here are some tips for attaching fillers on metal stud walls:
- Cut filler material slightly wider than the gap to allow final trimming.
- Use plywood, MDF or shiplap boards for wide gaps. For small gaps under 1”, use wood shims.
- Attach wider fillers using drywall anchors spaced appropriately for the weight.
- For small shims, use panel adhesive or construction adhesive to hold them in place.
- Drive finishing nails or screws at an angle through the inside edge of fillers into cabinet frames or door/window jambs. This holds the outside edge tight to the wall.
- Check for flush alignment with cabinets and windows/doors. Sand or trim filler edges if needed.
- Caulk gaps after installation. Consider using decorative trim to conceal uneven edges if needed.
- When using fasteners, locate the closest stud to attach through whenever possible for strength.
Fillers help create the impression of a seamless installation and prevent gaps that could collect grime. Take time to cut and install them neatly next to metal studs.
How to Reinforce for Stone Countertops
Natural stone countertops add beauty but are very heavy, often exceeding 15 lbs per square foot. Extra reinforcement is needed when installing on metal stud walls. Here are some tips:
- Verify metal stud gauge is suitable to support load. Heavier 16 or 18 gauge is better than 20 or 25 gauge studs.
- Attach plywood backing between multiple studs along entire countertop length. Allow 1 1⁄2” overhang for nosing.
- Use strong L-brackets underneath cabinets anchored into studs to carry weight.
- Place additional supports directly under front and rear edges of countertop above base cabinets.
- Use cleats or ledgers to carry sides and backsplash portion of countertop.
- Attach cabinet gussets in upper corners of sink base cabinets for rigidity.
- Set countertop on spacers over base cabinets. Shim thoroughly for full support.
- Use adhesive along with mechanical fasteners to secure countertop.
Check with the stone supplier for exact weight and reinforcement needs. A well-secured stone countertop on metal studs should provide many years of beauty and enjoyment.
FAQs
Can I hang cabinets directly on drywall over metal studs?
It is not recommended to hang cabinets solely on drywall over metal studs. The drywall alone does not have adequate strength and the cabinets could eventually pull away. Always try to hit the actual metal studs or use special hollow wall anchors.
What kind of screws should I use for metal studs?
Self-tapping pan head screws that are at least 1 1⁄2 inches long work well to penetrate metal studs while attaching cabinets securely. #10 or #12 size screws are ideal.
Do I need to find and mark every stud when installing cabinets?
It is best practice to locate and mark all the studs even if you don’t end up using every one for mounting. This allows flexibility in positioning cabinets and provides reference points. Use a stud finder designed for metal.
Can I use nail guns for cabinets on metal studs?
You should not use nail guns or pneumatic staplers to mount cabinets on metal stud walls. The fasteners may not hold well and could damage the studs. Pre-drill and use screwed connections instead for proper installation.
How do I mount cabinets at the end of a wall with metal studs?
For cabinets at the end of a wall, try to hit the one or two closest studs for screws. For additional support, use hollow wall anchors rated for the cabinet load spaced as directed. If needed, attach a wood backing plate across multiple studs first.
How much weight can toggle bolts hold on metal studs?
Toggle bolts grip well into the hollow wall cavity on metal studs. Depending on size, they can hold between 100-500 lbs each when installed correctly. Follow manufacturer ratings and use adequate numbers of toggles for the cabinet load.
Can I hang a microwave or medicine cabinet on drywall over metal studs?
For light items like microwaves and medicine cabinets, hollow wall anchors spaced as recommended can be used directly into the drywall between studs. This prevents having to find studs. Just be sure not to exceed the weight capacity.
What is the best way to mount cabinets in the corner of a metal stud wall?
For corner cabinets, it is best to attach the cabinet into both adjoining