Mounting overhead cabinets on metal stud walls requires some special considerations compared to mounting on wood stud walls. With the right techniques and materials, you can securely install overhead cabinets on metal studs.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Tape measure
- Stud finder
- Level
- Drill
- Drill bits (various sizes depending on screws/bolts)
- Wrench or screwdriver
- Cabinet rails or ledger board
- Toggle bolts or molly bolts
- Screws suitable for metal studs (self-tapping or self-drilling)
- Washers
- Cabinet brackets
Finding and Marking the Metal Studs
The first step is to locate the metal studs behind the wall where you want to install the cabinets. Use a high-quality stud finder suitable for finding metal studs. Mark the center of each stud with a pencil.
Also mark the height you want to install the bottom of the cabinet. Having all the stud centers marked will make mounting much easier.
Using Rails for Added Support
For maximum strength, install horizontal rails along the length of the cabinet first. Wood rails give you solid material to attach the cabinets to.
Measure and cut 2×4 or 2×2 wood rails to fit between two studs. Use self-drilling screws to attach the rails to the studs, screwing into at least three studs. Make sure the rails are perfectly level.
Alternatively, you can use metal cabinet rails or ledgers. Attach them to several studs for robust support.
Drilling Pilot Holes
Drilling small pilot holes into the studs prior to installing the screws prevents stripping the screws. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw size. Drill the pilot holes in the center of each stud mark where the cabinet rails are installed.
Using Molly Bolts or Toggle Bolts
For attaching the cabinet brackets directly to the metal studs, molly bolts or toggle bolts are ideal. They expand behind the wall to give a secure mounting.
Drill holes slightly bigger than the size recommended on the molly bolt packaging. Insert the bolts and tighten the nuts to expand the wings.
Installing Cabinet Brackets
Attach the cabinet bracket hardware according to the cabinet manufacturer’s directions. Ensure the bracket is centered on the stud mark or molly/toggle installation points.
Level and adjust the brackets so the cabinets will be perfectly plumb and level on the wall.
Hanging and Securing the Cabinets
With the cabinet brackets firmly attached to the studs, you can now hang the cabinet boxes on them. Insert screws through the cabinet rails or ledger into the studs. Tighten the screws firmly but not so much you strip the holes.
Use screws on both sides of the brackets for maximum strength. The screws on both sides prevent the cabinets from wobbling or shifting off the brackets.
Insert screws up through the bottom of the cabinets into the rails or ledgers. Drill pilot holes first to prevent splitting.
Securing Cabinet Doors Properly
With the cabinet boxes firmly installed on the wall, attach the doors properly so they are straight and even. Most cabinets have hinges that allow adjustment.
Follow the cabinet instructions for adjusting the door alignment just right. This may take some trial and error.
Helpful Tips
- Use heavy duty toggle bolts for attaching cabinets directly to metal studs
- Predrill holes for all screws going into metal to prevent stripping
- Use washers for added strength mounting bracket screws
- Make sure cabinets are level side-to-side and front-to-back
- Fill gaps with molding for a seamless look
Properly mounting overhead cabinets on metal studs takes precision and the right techniques. Following these steps will ensure your cabinets mount securely and resist pulling off the wall, even when fully loaded. Take your time to install the cabinets perfectly level for optimal performance and aesthetic appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size screws should I use for metal studs?
Use self-tapping or self-drilling screws that are 1/8″ or 1/4″ larger diameter than the pre-drilled pilot hole. Screws should penetrate metal studs by at least 3/4″.
What should I do if there is drywall damage around stud holes?
You can patch small drywall holes or gaps around screws with drywall compound. Apply compound over the area, let dry, and sand smooth.
How much weight can shelves hold on metal stud walls?
With proper cabinet installation, standard metal studs can hold up to 40 lbs per stud. For heavier loads, use heavier gauge studs or add support rails.
What if my cabinets aren’t perfectly level when installed?
Loosen the cabinet bracket screws and use shims to level and adjust the cabinet position, then retighten the brackets.
Should I attach cabinets to every stud?
It’s recommended to attach the overhead cabinet rails or brackets to every stud for maximum strength and stability.
Conclusion
Mounting overhead cabinets securely on metal stud walls is very achievable with the proper preparation and installation techniques. Following these steps will allow you to safely store heavy items and get years of use from cabinets mounted on metal stud framing. Precise measuring, drilling pilot holes, and using specialty fasteners like molly bolts are the secrets to success. Take care to level and align cabinet doors perfectly so your new storage solution looks as good as it performs.