Installing metal kitchen cabinets can upgrade the look and feel of your kitchen. With sleek finishes and durable construction, metal cabinets are a great choice for modern or industrial style kitchens. While the installation process is similar to standard wood cabinets, there are some important differences to keep in mind when working with metal. Follow this step-by-step guide to properly install metal kitchen cabinets.
Getting Started with Metal Cabinet Installation
Before installing metal cabinets, take some time to prepare your kitchen space and gather the necessary tools and materials:
Space Preparation
- Remove existing cabinets, countertops, sinks and any other fixtures from the installation area.
- Examine walls and floors for levelness and address any issues. Metal cabinets highlight uneven surfaces.
- Look for studs and mark locations on the wall clearly. Metal cabinets require securing to studs.
- Clean installation area thoroughly and remove any protruding nails, screws or staples.
Tools and Materials
- Level
- Stud finder
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdrivers
- Wrench set
- Cabinet installation screws
- Shims
- Wood filler or drywall putty
- Ceiling supports (for tall cabinets)
- Protective floor covering
- Painter’s tape
Safety Equipment
- Safety goggles
- Dust mask
- Work gloves
Cabinet Requirements
- Fully assembled cabinets
- Adjustable legs or cabinet bottom trim
- Cabinet hanging rail or hanging strips
Installing Wall Cabinets
Wall cabinets provide critical storage space in the kitchen and serve as the foundation for most installations. Follow these steps when installing metal wall cabinets:
Step 1: Mark the Cabinet Height and Layout
- Determine the height for the bottom of the wall cabinets based on your design plan. Standard height is 18 inches from the counter to the bottom of the wall cabinet.
- Mark a level line on the wall at the desired cabinet height using a level and pencil.
- Mark stud locations along the level line using a stud finder.
- Lay out the cabinet positions along the level line, centered over studs. Mark the outside edges and any spacer locations between cabinets.
Step 2: Attach Wall Mounting Strips
- Cut 1×3 or 1×4 inch lumber to appropriate lengths for mounting strips. Strips should fit between cabinet side markings.
- Position strips along the level line and attach them to the wall studs using 2-1/2 inch screws.
- Make sure strips remain level and are properly secured into studs.
Step 3: Hang Cabinets and Secure
- Use a helper or lifting device to hold the cabinet in place against the mounting strip.
- Insert installation screws through the cabinet hanging rail into the center of the mounting strips.
- Check for level side-to-side and front-to-back. Shim if necessary to level the cabinet.
- Secure cabinet through hanging rail to all available studs, not just the mounting strips.
- Attach filler strips or spacers between cabinets and secure cabinets together.
Step 4: Install Remaining Cabinets
- For multiple cabinets, start in one corner and work outward. Attach cabinets to each other using clamps or fasteners before securing to the wall for proper alignment.
- Fill any gaps between cabinets or the wall using shims. Avoid over-tightening screws to prevent distortion.
- Use wood filler or putty to cover holes and small gaps for a seamless appearance.
Installing Base Cabinets
Base cabinets provide storage and support for countertops. Proper installation is critical to keep countertops level.
Step 1: Mark Cabinet Positions
- Mark a level line on the wall 34-1/2 inches up from the floor. This line represents the top of the base cabinets.
- Indicate the outer edges of each cabinet along the level line.
- Mark plumb lines down from the level line to the floor at each cabinet edge marking.
Step 2: Level and Secure Cabinets
- Place shims along the floor plumb lines about 1/8 inch thick.
- Set cabinet in place, aligned with plumb lines and resting on shims.
- Use a level to check that the cabinet sides are plumb and front is level.
- Insert installation screws through cabinet back or sides into studs. Tighten screws.
- Add shims between cabinet and wall to fill gaps, keeping cabinets plumb and level.
Step 3: Attach Cabinets Together
- Use C-clamps to hold face frames tightly together when installing multiple cabinets.
- Pre-drill holes for fasteners to prevent cracking or denting of cabinet material.
- Attach cabinets together through face frames using screws.
- Remove clamps and secure backside of cabinets to wall studs as needed.
Step 4: Install Remainder of Cabinets
- Complete installation one cabinet at a time, checking for level and plumb as you go.
- Make sure cabinets sit flat on the floor. Use shims under cabinet bottoms as needed.
- Fill gaps between cabinets or wall with wood filler for a seamless appearance.
Step 5: Install Decorative Trim
- Attach cabinet bottom trim pieces to hide spaces between floor and cabinet bottoms.
- Caulk along trim, cabinets, and wall for a clean finished look.
Securing Cabinet Contents
Proper storage and securing of items is important in metal kitchen cabinets:
- Install shelf clips or supports to prevent sagging shelves. Position according to manufacturer’s specifications.
- Use non-slip mats, shelf liners, or edge guards to prevent shifting or scratching.
- Consider glass or plastic organizers to prevent cookware scratches.
- Secure heavy pots, appliances, etc. with retaining bars, slides, or brackets.
- Install child safety locks to prevent doors and drawers from opening.
Installation Tips and Tricks
Follow these additional pointers for flawless metal cabinet installations:
- Drill small pilot holes before inserting screws to prevent cracking or denting of cabinet surface.
- Tighten screws gradually to bring cabinets together snugly without distorting or bending metal.
- Use fillers, caulk and paint touch ups for perfectly seamless cabinet-to-wall and cabinet-to-cabinet joints.
- Take time shimming and adjusting to get everything perfectly plumb, level, and square. Metal shows imperfections.
- Use plastic or wood spacers between cabinets and countertops to allow for expansion and contraction of metal.
- Protect nearby finished flooring, walls, and backsplash with drop cloths or cardboard during installation.
Installing metal kitchen cabinets takes precision, patience and attention to detail. Following these step-by-step instructions will help you achieve sturdy, professionally installed cabinets that look great and function flawlessly. Take your time, use the right tools, and don’t be afraid to make adjustments until everything is perfectly aligned and secured. Your new metal cabinets will upgrade your kitchen with style and quality for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Metal kitchen cabinets bring modern style and industrial flair, but their installation has some unique considerations. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about installing metal cabinets:
What kind of screws should be used to install metal cabinets?
Self-tapping screws specifically made for metal provide the best hold and reduce risk of stripping. Use #8 or #10 size screws at least 2 1⁄2 inches long. Pre-drill pilot holes for smooth installation.
Do metal cabinets need to be attached to wall studs or can they be anchored to drywall?
Metal cabinets should always be secured to wall studs for proper structural support. Their weight and rigid construction requires stud attachments, and they cannot be safely anchored to drywall alone.
Can filler strips be used between metal cabinets instead of purchasing fillers?
Yes, 1×2 or 1×3 lumber strips cut to fit make perfectly suitable fillers between metal cabinet sides. Stain or paint to match for a seamless look.
How are tall metal pantry cabinets secured for safety?
Use metal ceiling support brackets to securely attach the top of tall pantry cabinets. Many metal cabinets come with matching brackets or clips for this purpose.
Should anything be used between metal cabinets and granite countertops?
It’s recommended to use plastic or wood shims between metal cabinets and natural stone countertops. This prevents direct contact of dissimilar materials and allows for minor expansion/contraction.
What should be done about scratches or dents that occur during metal cabinet installation?
For minor scratches, a metal polish compound can help blend marks into the surrounding finish. Dents may require professional repair, however. Prevent issues by installing carefully.
Can metal cabinets support a wall-mounted oven or cooktop?
Yes, most metal cabinets can support wall-mounted appliances if properly secured into wall studs and additional structural support is added. Consult appliance manufacturer instructions.
How can noise be reduced when closing metal cabinet doors and drawers?
To reduce closing noise and banging, use rubber or felt bumpers. Choose hammered metal or brushed finishes which hide marks/wear better than smooth shiny finishes.
Should metal or wood cabinets be installed first?
Generally metal cabinets get installed first since they require perfectly flat walls and floors. Wood cabinets are more forgiving and can be scribed to fit into uneven spaces.
Can pull-out shelves be added inside metal cabinets later if not pre-installed?
Yes, cabinet interiors can be retrofitted. Use an experienced cabinet professional for best results matching shelving and hardware finishes.
Installing metal kitchen cabinets requires careful planning, precision installation and attention to detail. Following the tips in this guide will allow your metal cabinetry to successfully transform your kitchen with stylish durability.
Conclusion
Installing metal kitchen cabinets allows you to add beauty, durability and value to your kitchen. While the process requires precision and attention to detail, following this guide will help you successfully complete the project. Carefully measure, properly secure into studs, use fillers and caulk for seamless results, and take time to get everything perfectly aligned. Your beautiful new metal cabinets will upgrade your kitchen’s function and style for many years to come. With proper planning and care, you can install metal cabinets like a professional and enjoy a kitchen that will make you proud.