ᐅ How do I install Ikea Metod wall cabinets on drywall (plasterboard)?

I think the whole discussion about cavity anchors is somewhat overrated. Sure, if you have no way to reach the studs, that's understandable. But let’s be honest, who hangs a heavy Metod kitchen cabinet on drywall without reinforcement?

My advice: If you have a drywall that doesn’t touch any studs, either plan for reinforcement or skip the wall cabinets altogether. Anything else is a risk that compromises stability.

In addition to the previous recommendations, here is a structured procedure for mounting Metod wall cabinets on drywall:

- First, check the wall for studs behind it, ideally using a wire detector or magnet.
- If studs are found, drill directly into them and use wood screws.
- If no studs are present, use hollow wall anchors (toggle bolts or metal anchors with a large expansion mechanism).
- Use screws with a diameter of at least 6 mm (0.24 inches) for the brackets.
- Select anchors and screws according to the weight of the cabinet and the number of fixing points (at least 4 mounting points).
- Before installation, verify that the drywall is strong enough (a minimum thickness of 12.5 mm (0.5 inches) is recommended).
- Additional internal supports or alternative mounting methods are advisable if high loads are expected.

It is important to observe the maximum load rating of the anchors and to err on the side of caution.

karlau schrieb:
I think the whole discussion about cavity anchors is a bit overrated.

That is only partly true. If you really know where the studs are and can reach them, then that is the best solution. But often, studs are not at the right height or position. In such cases, cavity anchors can be a serious alternative, provided you plan properly and distribute the load across multiple fixing points.

Thank you for the responses so far; they have already been helpful. One question: I measured the planned spot and found no wooden studs, only metal profiles spaced about 60 cm (24 inches) apart. What would be the best way to ensure a secure installation in this case?

- Are the metal studs sufficient as fastening points?
- Or would it be better to install a wooden batten behind the drywall? If so, what is the best approach without having to tear down the entire wall?

Looking forward to your advice.

Maunon schrieb:
I measured that there are no wooden studs directly at the planned location, only metal studs spaced about 60cm (24 inches) apart. What would be the best way to ensure a secure mounting here?

Metal studs can indeed be load-bearing, but their attachment and load capacity for point loads can vary.

Recommendation:
- Attach directly to the metal studs whenever possible using suitable metal nails or metal bracket screws.
- For drywall on metal studs, use special metal stud anchors (e.g., metal hollow wall anchors).
- Distribute the load across several anchors on different studs.

Installing a wooden batten behind the wall is labor-intensive and usually only practical during drywall installation before finishing the wall.

Metal studs are solid load-bearing elements, indeed. Important: The fasteners must be designed specifically for metal studs. As FEKAU mentioned, anchors suitable for metal studs are appropriate.

If you don’t have access to the back side, try the following:

- Mount with hollow metal anchors on the profiles
- Distribute the load over at least four points
- Check the load capacity of each anchor in advance

Retrofitting a wooden batten is structurally difficult and, in most cases, unnecessary if the metal studs are sufficiently load-bearing.