ᐅ How do I securely attach IKEA Metod kitchen cabinets to drywall?

Created on: 10 Jan 2024 08:17
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Nonson
Hello everyone,

I am currently facing the challenge of how to securely and permanently attach my Ikea Metod kitchen cabinets to drywall. Since my kitchen walls are not solid but only drywall, I am concerned that the cabinets might not hold safely or could come loose over time.

I am particularly interested in which types of anchors or fasteners you would recommend, whether special plastic or metal anchors should be used, and how to take the weight of the cabinets into account.

Additionally, it would be helpful to know if you suggest any special precautions when mounting the hanging rails on drywall, such as reinforcements behind the wall or specific types of anchors. I have the Ikea Metod wall cabinets, which I plan to hang in two rows side by side.

I look forward to your experience and advice – thank you in advance!
K
kaubi
11 Jan 2024 09:21
Hello Nonson,

With your wall construction using metal studs (drywall profiles), it is definitely possible to screw the Ikea Metod mounting rail directly onto them. However, there are a few important points to consider:

- Type of screws: Ideally, use sheet metal screws with full threading designed for metal profiles. Self-drilling or self-tapping screws in the appropriate length (usually 3.5 x 25–35 mm (0.14 x 1–1.4 inches)) are recommended.

- Positioning: The screws should engage at least the area of the missing or significantly more stable metal profiles. Use enough screws, approximately every 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16 inches) along the rail.

- Load distribution: The load-bearing capacity depends on the stability of the metal profiles and their fastening to the overlying structure. The gypsum boards transfer very little of the load; it mainly rests on the profiles.

- For safety, you can install a second steel or wooden rail behind the drywall to help distribute the load.

- Use a metal or electronic detector to precisely locate the profiles. Also, plan the drilling holes so that the screws go through the center of the metal.

- It is advisable to test the mounting bracket on a profile before installing the cabinets and check the stability with gentle pressure.

In summary: Yes, you can screw directly into the metal studs, but the key is using suitable screws and precise positioning. The load is mostly transferred to the profiles, not the gypsum boards.

Good luck with your project!
F
FAVALERIE9
11 Jan 2024 10:45
Metal screws should be tightened into the profiles every 30-40 cm (12-16 inches). If you cannot find studs, use hollow metal anchors.

Drywall alone does not support kitchen cabinets.
G
GiRoyce
12 Jan 2024 07:13
Nonson schrieb:
I wonder if I can simply screw the Metod rail onto these metal studs or if special screws are required?

Regarding the choice of screws: I recommend self-drilling sheet metal screws with a full thread. These cut into the metal profiles and hold securely, preventing loosening.

I have installed kitchens on drywall metal stud walls several times — always using screws about 4.5 mm (3/16 inch) in diameter, with a length of around 25 to 35 mm (1 to 1.4 inches), depending on the profile thickness. Pre-drilling is usually not necessary, just make sure to keep the screw straight while driving it in.

Make sure to space the screws properly to prevent shifting and that multiple screws are anchored in the studs. The drywall sheet only serves as a cover and does not carry any load. The entire load is transferred through the screws into the studs.

If you want extra security, you can screw a wooden batten across the metal profiles from the inside and then mount the rail on that. However, this is often quite labor-intensive and usually unnecessary.

It’s great that you are putting so much thought into it!
D
Davidleo
12 Jan 2024 12:24
Super interesting discussion here!

I personally mounted my Metod cabinet wall on drywall with metal studs and can confirm: using self-tapping metal screws directly into the metal studs is very stable!

A small tip: Take your time to measure carefully beforehand and use an appropriate stud finder to locate the studs accurately. It’s better to double-check where the screws should go.

I was skeptical at first too, but it has held firmly without any wobbling for over a year now. So don’t worry – it works!