Installing new kitchen cabinets can transform the look and feel of your kitchen. While many cabinets use wall anchors directly into studs for mounting, another popular method is hanging cabinets on a metal rail. Using a metal rail allows you to mount cabinets anywhere without needing to locate studs, and it provides a strong, stable base for hanging cabinets. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to hang kitchen cabinets with metal rail.
What You’ll Need
Before starting, make sure you have all the necessary materials:
- Metal rail designed for mounting cabinets
- Wall anchors or lag bolts to secure the rail
- Level
- Stud finder
- Drill and drill bits
- Screws for mounting cabinets to rail
- Tape measure
- Pencil
Choosing and Cutting the Rail
The first step is to determine the length of metal rail you need. Measure the width of the cabinet run where you’ll be installing the rail. Add at least 4″ extra on each end to allow mounting space. Purchase metal rail in the required length or use a hacksaw to cut longer rail to your measured size.
Tips for Choosing Rail
- Opt for thick 11 or 12 gauge steel rail for the strongest support.
- Match rail size to cabinet depth for optimal mounting. Common sizes are 3″, 5″, and 8″.
- Buy longer lengths to avoid joints, if possible. Joints can sag over time.
- For heavy cabinets like sink base units, use extra wide 8″ rail.
Mounting the Rail
With the right length rail chosen, it’s time to mount it to the wall:
Step 1: Find Studs
Locate the wall studs in the area using a stud finder. Mark their positions with pencil. Try to align the rail over at least 2 studs for the most secure mounting.
Step 2: Level and Mark Holes
Hold the metal rail against the wall at the desired height. Use a level to ensure it is perfectly straight. Mark pilot hole locations with pencil – at stud positions and anywhere else needed to keep the rail level.
Step 3: Drill Holes
Drill pilot holes in the marked locations using a 5/32″ drill bit. For stud holes, drill 1-1/2″ deep. For drywall anchors, drill holes just slightly smaller than anchor size.
Step 4: Secure to Wall
Use lag bolts to secure the rail through any stud holes. For drywall areas, insert wall anchors first then screw rail into anchors. Check level and make any needed adjustments.
Mounting the Cabinets
With the metal rail firmly secured straight and level on the wall, you’re ready to hang cabinets:
Step 1: Level and Mark Heights
Place cabinets on the floor beneath their final mounted position. Use a level to mark the accurate height for each cabinet on the wall. Transfer those height marks to the metal rail.
Step 2: Drill Rail Holes
Drill pilot holes in the rail at all the marked cabinet heights and positions. Make sure holes align exactly with the wall studs behind the rail.
Step 3: Mount Cabinets
Lift each cabinet and position against the wall over its mounting holes. Insert screws through the cabinet back/rail holes and into the studs. Tighten securely. Add filler panels and complete connections.
Tips for Hanging Cabinets on Rail
- Make sure rail mounting holes align with studs for strength.
- Use filler panels between any gaps in cabinet run.
- Level and shim cabinets so fronts align and doors close smoothly.
- Make sure screws are snug but not overtightened to avoid cracking cabinet backs.
- Consider using silicone adhesive between rail and wall for maximum hold.
Hanging kitchen cabinets on metal rail is an easy way to get them mounted perfectly straight and strong. With the right techniques and materials, you can achieve a professional built-in look that will last for many years. Just take accurate measurements, securely mount the rail into studs, and install your cabinets properly aligned and leveled.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hanging Kitchen Cabinets on Metal Rail
What size metal rail should I use for mounting cabinets?
Choose a rail thickness of at least 11 gauge steel. For depth, opt for a size equal to your cabinet depth or slightly wider – commonly 3″, 5″, or 8″ depth. Wider 8″ rail provides maximum support.
How much weight can metal rail hold?
Heavy 12 gauge rail securely mounted into studs can hold several hundred pounds per cabinet. Exact weight capacity depends on rail size, wall construction, and quality of installation.
Should I mount the metal rail to wall studs?
It is best to align the rail with and mount into wall studs for the strongest support. If not possible, use many heavy-duty wall anchors rated for the cabinet weight.
Can I hang wall cabinets on metal rail?
Yes, metal rail designed for cabinets can securely support both base and wall mount cabinets. Follow the same mounting steps. Just ensure the rail placement suits the wall cabinet height.
What screws should I use to hang cabinets on a metal rail?
Self-tapping cabinet installation screws are recommended. Use #8 or #10 size screws at least 2″ longer than the combined cabinet back and rail depth.
Conclusion
Installing kitchen cabinets on metal rail is a smart technique that provides robust support and allows flexible placement not limited to wall studs. With some careful planning and proper installation, you can gain sturdy, professionally mounted cabinets aligned perfectly for your space. Just follow the steps for accurate measuring, level rail mounting, and secure cabinet hanging. Soon you’ll have a kitchen updated with beautiful new cabinets mounted to last.