Hanging cabinets on metal studs can seem daunting, but with the right screws and techniques, you can securely mount your cabinets like a pro. Here’s a detailed guide on the best practices for hanging cabinets on metal studs.
Introduction
When installing cabinets on walls with metal studs, it’s important to use screws that are designed to grip and hold in thin metal. Normal wood screws won’t cut it. Self-tapping metal screws are ideal because they drill and tap their own threads as they’re driven in. This allows them to grip tightly into the metal studs.
Choosing the right length screws is also key. They need to be long enough to penetrate at least 1 inch into the metal studs for proper holding strength. The gauge or thickness of the metal screws is also important, with thicker screws providing more holding power.
In this article, we’ll go over the best type of screws for metal studs, techniques for locating studs, pilot hole recommendations, and proper installation methods. With the right approach, you can securely mount cabinets or anything else to metal stud wall framing.
Best Screw Types for Metal Studs
Here are the top options when it comes to screws for installing cabinets and fixtures on metal studs:
Self-Tapping Metal Screws
As mentioned, these are ideal for metal studs. The self-tapping tip cuts into the stud as it’s driven to provide excellent holding power. Look for self-tappers specifically made for 25-gauge metal studs. They usually have deeper, sharper threads to grip the thin metal.
Self-Drilling Metal Screws
Similar to self-tapping screws, these have a drill-tip point that bores into metal studs as they’re installed. The fluted tip helps remove shavings. They tap their own internal threads for grip.
Sheet Metal Screws
These have deeper threading and are made to grip metal more tightly than standard screws. The coarse threads dig into metal studs for superb holding strength.
Thread-Forming Screws
Instead of cutting threads into metal, these create their own internal threads in the studs as they’re driven in. This cold-forming action hardens the metal for extra grip.
For any of these options, aim for a minimum screw size of #10 gauge for cabinet installations. #8 screws can work for lighter duty hangings like hand towel rails. Make sure to choose screws long enough to sink at least 1 inch into the metal studs. 1 1/4, 1 1/2, or 2-inch lengths are common.
Locating the Metal Studs
The key to properly mounting anything on metal studs is first locating precisely where the studs are. Here are some tips for accurately finding them:
- Use a stud finder designed for metal studs. Look for one with an electromagnet that detects metal through the drywall.
- Magnets can also help find screws/nails in the studs which indicate their location. Sweep a strong magnet horizontally across the wall.
- Measure 16 inches on center starting from a known stud to locate others in the standard spacing.
- Look for very faint seam lines in the drywall mud every 16 inches.
- Gently drill small test holes to find solid studs versus empty cavities.
Take time to carefully and accurately locate multiple studs where cabinets will be installed. Mark the locations clearly for reference when driving screws.
Drilling Pilot Holes
Drilling small pilot holes before installing the screws is highly recommended, especially when working with harder metals like steel studs. Here are some benefits of pilot holes:
- Prevents screws from bending or breaking as you drive them in.
- Allows screws to turn more easily with less stripping.
- Provides extra grip and holding power in the metal.
- Neater installation with less damage to drywall around screws.
For most #8 and #10 gauge metal screws into 25-gauge steel studs, a 1/16-inch pilot hole is ideal. For thicker or harder metals, step up to a 5/64-inch pilot hole. Use a high-speed drill bit made for metal. Lubricating the pilot hole with light oil allows an easier screw insertion.
Pro Tips for Installing Screws in Metal Studs
Follow these professional tips when fastening cabinets or anything else to metal stud wall framing:
- Use washers under screw heads for smoother installation and to prevent pulling through.
- Tightly clamp cabinets together before driving screws to prevent shifting.
- Drive screws manually with a magnetic screwdriver tip to feel when they are properly tightened.
- Space multiple screws every 16 inches vertically in each stud for maximum holding strength.
- For heavy cabinets, use 3-4 screws horizontally in each stud if possible.
- Angle corner screws up to 45 degrees toward each other for better resistance to pulling out.
- Cut away drywall around cutouts to allow drilling screws into stud edges.
- Check for electrical wires, cables, or pipes before drilling pilot holes.
Common Questions
What size screws should I use for cabinets on metal studs?
For most cabinet installations, #10 gauge self-tapping metal screws work best. Make sure they are 1 1/4 to 2 inches long to sink well into the studs.
How many screws do I need per stud?
Use 2-4 screws in each stud for heavy upper cabinets. For lighter weight lower cabinets, 1-2 screws per stud is usually sufficient.
Can I use drywall screws in metal studs?
It’s not recommended. Drywall screws do not have deep enough threads to grip metal studs properly. Use self-tapping metal screws instead.
What is the right drill size for pilot holes in metal studs?
For #10 gauge screws, drill 1/16-inch pilot holes. For thicker metal or larger #12 screws, use 5/64-inch pilot holes.
How do I keep screws from breaking when driving them into metal studs?
Drilling proper pilot holes is key. Lubricating holes and using washers under screw heads also prevents breakage. Drive in slowly with a magnetic driver.
Conclusion
Installing cabinets securely on metal stud walls is made easy with the right screws and techniques. Self-tapping metal screws provide maximum holding power when driven properly into the studs. Locate the studs accurately, drill pilot holes, use washers, and drive in the screws manually without over-tightening. Spacing multiple screws every 16 inches vertically and angling corner screws prevents sagging and pullout over time. Take your time, and your cabinets will enjoy rock-solid mounting strength.