FHB Logo Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram Tiktok YouTube Plus Icon Close Icon Navigation Search Icon Navigation Search Icon Arrow Down Icon Video Guide Icon Article Guide Icon Modal Close Icon Guide Search Icon Skip to content
Subscribe
Log In
  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Restoration
  • Videos
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House
  • Podcast
Log In

Discussion Forum

Discussion Forum

size of screws for kitchen cabinets

| Posted in General Discussion on September 1, 2006 12:09pm

framed kitchen cabinets, what the size of screws I should use to hang them to stubs?  3″ or 2 3/4″ ?

the length of trim screws I need to connect the cabinet front?

what type of screws I should use to connect plywood boxes of cabinets on the back? I’d think there is no need for long screws if they are not visible.

Thanks

Reply
  • X
  • facebook
  • linkedin
  • pinterest
  • email
  • add to favorites Log in or Sign up to save your favorite articles

Replies

  1. User avater
    Sphere | Sep 01, 2006 12:22am | #1

    Try the ones that came with the cabs, if you didn't get any..ask the manufacturer for some.

    It varies. Depending on the install and make of cabinetry.

    Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks

    " If ya plan to face tomorrow, do it soon"

  2. MikeSmith | Sep 01, 2006 12:43am | #2

    i'd use a #10 SS with a finish washer

    i want 1 1/2" of screw into the stud  + 1/2 thru the drywall

    and assuming the hanging rail is 3/4  ... sounds like  2 3/4 #10

    Mike Smith Rhode Island : Design / Build / Repair / Restore
  3. calvin | Sep 01, 2006 12:49am | #3

    Through the back, 2.5 are plenty unless you have lath/plaster.  3'' and you run the risk of pricking wire if going through 1/2'' drywall.

    2.5 on joining cabs face frame's to each other are fine.

    Plywood boxes?  Uppers, I might join them, but usually don't.  Base's I'll run drywall screws of the proper length up top, through a proper thickness shim and into the other box.  I'll go both ways, there's not much holding power in 1/2'' thick material. 

    A great place for Information, Comraderie, and a sucker punch.

    Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.

    Quittin' Time

     

    1. BillBrennen | Sep 01, 2006 03:15am | #10

      Calvin,I agree with you about 2.5" screws in drywall construction. 3" is generally too long.My rule of thumb is to go for 1-1/4" into the stud. If I hit a wire in the first 1-1/4" and it wasn't plated, then the repair is on the electrician. If I go deeper than 1-1/4" and nick a wire, the repair is on me. "Just following the Code, Sir!"Bill

      1. calvin | Sep 01, 2006 03:28am | #12

        You've seen alot of wire.  And alot of copper.  No reason to tempt fate when the proper depth and location can be achieved.

        New const. is one thing, remodeling has a whole nother parameter of variables.

        An example in todays Slatwall thead.  Printed instructions recommends 3'' screws for mounting.  Well, the thin side of the groove is only 3/8's, plenty fun trying to sink a 3'' screw even if it was necessary, which it isn't.

        You know, it just came to me.  You could spend some time writing and printing "proper execution" for most things.  Oh yeah, those are "secrets".A great place for Information, Comraderie, and a sucker punch.

        Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.

        Quittin' Time

         

  4. MisterT | Sep 01, 2006 02:28am | #4

    i use 19.2 inch drywall scews with tyvek washers

    "The truth, when told does nothing but bolster a mans character." 

     

    1. DougU | Sep 01, 2006 02:43am | #5

      Where do you get those?

      1. User avater
        dieselpig | Sep 01, 2006 02:45am | #7

        Gunner makes 'em up out back.View Image

      2. MisterT | Sep 01, 2006 09:41am | #19

        at the Black Diamond store...

        duh.."The truth, when told does nothing but bolster a mans character." 

         

        1. DougU | Sep 01, 2006 04:47pm | #24

          Well I didnt know, hell  I still use sheet rock screws.

          Doug

          1. MisterT | Sep 01, 2006 05:38pm | #25

            Doug U will never learn???"The truth, when told does nothing but bolster a mans character." 

             

          2. DougU | Sep 02, 2006 02:32am | #36

            Just trying to keep it real!

    2. HammerHarry | Sep 01, 2006 03:15am | #9

      Man, ya gotta use piffinscrews.

       

    3. Piffin | Sep 01, 2006 03:23am | #11

      couple years ago, I took apart a kitchen that was hung with 3/8" x 4" lags with washers.took a few hours longer than I anticipated...made up for all those hung with SR screws that fell apart 

       

      Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

  5. User avater
    dieselpig | Sep 01, 2006 02:44am | #6

    I only get to install about a kitchen per year, so take it for what it's worth, but I really like these screws for hanging cabinets:

    http://www.mcfeelys.com/product.asp?pid=1030-WRK

    View Image
    1. rasconc | Sep 01, 2006 03:11am | #8

      I like these, did not compare prices though.

      http://www.mcfeelys.com/subcat.asp?sid=406

    2. User avater
      xxPaulCPxx | Sep 01, 2006 04:03am | #13

      Next time you order, try these instead:

      http://www.mcfeelys.com/product.asp?pid=1027-WPL

      They are just slightly shorter, but the thread only goes up 1/2 way and the rest is solid shank, great for pulling materials together.  They have a #17 point too.  These are my new favorite screw in the 3" length.  I also find I don't break off tips on this one either like I do the regular 3" McFeely screws.Rebuilding my home in Cypress, CA

      Also a CRX fanatic!

      1. User avater
        dieselpig | Sep 01, 2006 04:05am | #14

        Cool.  I'll check 'em out.View Image

    3. MisterT | Sep 01, 2006 09:43am | #20

      people actually LET FRAMERS install cabs!!!???

      some peeps are verrrrry brave...

       "The truth, when told does nothing but bolster a mans character." 

       

  6. User avater
    basswood | Sep 01, 2006 04:36am | #15

    These are the best cabinet hanging screws. They are a #8, but are as strong as other #10's.

    No predrilling req'd, even with hardwood rails. I use 2-1/2" for most applications.

    http://www.grkfasteners.com/en/CAB_1_information.htm

    1. User avater
      xxPaulCPxx | Sep 01, 2006 06:36am | #16

      I don't know about those in particular, but I don't normally trust #8 screws for anything structural like that - just my own personal rule.  I've broken many #8's, but I've never broken a #9 or #10.Rebuilding my home in Cypress, CA

      Also a CRX fanatic!

      1. User avater
        basswood | Sep 01, 2006 06:51am | #17

        Even GRK #6 screws are rated for over 300# in shear and then the wood fails not the screw.I installed cabinets in about 40 kitchens in the past year and used about 2000 #8 GRK cabinet screws--never had one break.

        1. User avater
          xxPaulCPxx | Sep 01, 2006 06:59am | #18

          Sweet!  I've just gotten a bunch of the heavier ones, maybe I'll have to take another look at their #8.Rebuilding my home in Cypress, CA

          Also a CRX fanatic!

        2. MisterT | Sep 01, 2006 09:46am | #21

          GRK screws are da BOMB!

          you really have to work at breaking them...

           "The truth, when told does nothing but bolster a mans character." 

           

          1. User avater
            basswood | Sep 01, 2006 03:13pm | #23

            They are expensive, but worth it!I might spend an extra $5 a day using GRK (on a typical job), but I am sure they save me enough time and grief to be more than ahead. Final results are better too.The 2-1/2" trim heads are great for screwing faceframes together:http://www.grkfasteners.com/en/TRIM_0_information.htm

          2. 30ALL | Sep 01, 2006 05:42pm | #26

            Thank you all. These are 2 brands I'm thinking of ordering from.

            Another minor question.

            McFeely's only has 3" and using square bit, but I like their painted head.

            GRK has them in different sizes and uses 'star' bit.

            What type of drive bits are easier to use.

            I don't mind the price differences because I only has my own kitchen to do.

          3. marv | Sep 01, 2006 06:48pm | #27

            When I used McFeelys painted head screws, I had trouble with the bit slipping.  If you order the screws, order the slightly undersized bits for driving.

            I switched to Star drive from Screw-Products to eliminate the bits slipping.You get out of life what you put into it......minus taxes.

            Marv

          4. User avater
            xxPaulCPxx | Sep 01, 2006 07:13pm | #28

            Instead of GRK, look at Screw Products - they will ship directly to your door.Rebuilding my home in Cypress, CA

            Also a CRX fanatic!

          5. Piffin | Sep 01, 2006 08:53pm | #30

            My local yards have GRK, but I have ordered from them direct too. Maybe it has to do with order size. 

             

            Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

          6. User avater
            xxPaulCPxx | Sep 01, 2006 09:13pm | #31

            I think this is a North / South thing (like saws are and East / West thing).  Above the Iowa/Missouri  border you can get good screws, below that you are stuck with Grip Rite in every store :)Rebuilding my home in Cypress, CA

            Also a CRX fanatic!

          7. Piffin | Sep 01, 2006 09:21pm | #32

            Could be. 

             

            Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

          8. User avater
            basswood | Sep 01, 2006 09:29pm | #33

            Here everyone BUT the big boxes carry GRK. In my town of 30,000 I have 3 suppliers who carry GRK.These are your closest vendors (20 to choose from):http://www.grkfasteners.ca/grk/servlet/GRKFindRetailer?imcountry=United+States+of+America&imstate_prov=California+%28South%29&imphone=all&imzipcode=&imcity=&imcompany=

            Edited 9/1/2006 2:31 pm ET by basswood

          9. User avater
            xxPaulCPxx | Sep 01, 2006 09:52pm | #34

            Hey, I've seen that list too!  Check out this list:

            http://www.grkfasteners.com/featured_retailers.htm

            You get to walk into your local store and get this:

            View Image

            This is how it works for me down here:

            You go to one of those stores on your list you posted- say Ganahl Lumber, and look around for GRK screws.  None to be found.

            You ask customer service, they page the hardware guy, who is helping someone else.

            After 20 minutes, the hardware guy shows up to tell you he doesn't know what you are talking about... but they have a fine selection of Grip Rites for you to look at!

            You then go to the Special Orders section, where they tell you they don't know what you are talking about.

            Oh Wait - there is our main Special Order Supplier - He'll know.

            Nope, he doesn't know.

            Call GRK on your cell, they tell you the specific Special Order supplier that supplies this lumber yard with GRK screws.

            Special Order desk person calls their supplier up, and then you have to try to feed information through this person to the person on the other end of the phone, because they don't deal directly with customers.

            Now sit back and wait a week for your order to dribble in - wasn't that fun!

            Gues what, when you go back in for another order you get to go through the same process!  WHEEEEEE!

             

            You guys in the snow states have all the luck!  I'm gonna go to the beach now and pout on my surf board. :PRebuilding my home in Cypress, CA

            Also a CRX fanatic!

          10. User avater
            basswood | Sep 01, 2006 10:24pm | #35

            I would hope a few of those places listed would actually have a good selection on hand. If not, special orders at Fastenal are usually quick and painless. They are on the list, might not be near you and might not stock them either. They would get them in quick though.You would be impressed with the GRK cabinet screws...nothin' else like 'em.

          11. User avater
            xxPaulCPxx | Sep 02, 2006 02:48am | #37

            I actually just got back from Austin Hardwoods, and they had everything I needed right on the shelf.

             

            Man, now I got one less thing to pizz and moan about.  GREAT.Rebuilding my home in Cypress, CA

            Also a CRX fanatic!

          12. User avater
            basswood | Sep 02, 2006 03:40am | #38

            After you try out the structural lags, cabinet screws, trim heads, etc. Let us know what you think. Glad you found a local source.

          13. Piffin | Sep 01, 2006 08:49pm | #29

            That is called a Torx bit shape.
            IMO, they are far superior to square drive heads simply because they have more surface area to torque against. They do not ever cam out. 

             

            Welcome to the Taunton University of Knowledge FHB Campus at Breaktime. where ... Excellence is its own reward!

  7. User avater
    Matt | Sep 01, 2006 12:42pm | #22

    They sell cabinet screws at most home center type stores.  They are especially made for the purpose, have large heads come in 2 1/2 or 2 3/4".

Log in or create an account to post a comment.

Sign up Log in

Become a member and get full access to FineHomebuilding.com

Video Shorts

Categories

  • Business
  • Code Questions
  • Construction Techniques
  • Energy, Heating & Insulation
  • General Discussion
  • Help/Work Wanted
  • Photo Gallery
  • Reader Classified
  • Tools for Home Building

Discussion Forum

Recent Posts and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
View More Create Post

Up Next

Video Shorts

Featured Story

Two Ways to Test Windows

New devices showcased at the Builders' Show make it easy to measure glass performance, u-factor, SHGC, window thickness, and more.

Featured Video

How to Install Exterior Window Trim

Learn how to measure, cut, and build window casing made of cellular PVC, solid wood, poly-ash boards, or any common molding material. Plus, get tips for a clean and solid installation.

Related Stories

  • Podcast Episode 695: Saving Bricks, Cut-and-Cobble Insulation, and Waterproofing Foundations
  • FHB Podcast Segment: Waterproofing Below-Grade Foundation Walls
  • Midcentury Home for a Modern Family
  • The New Old Colonial

Highlights

Fine Homebuilding All Access
Fine Homebuilding Podcast
Tool Tech
Plus, get an extra 20% off with code GIFT20

"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 333 - August/September 2025
    • A Practical Perfect Wall
    • Landscape Lighting Essentials
    • Repairing a Modern Window Sash
  • Issue 332 - July 2025
    • Custom Built-ins With Job-Site Tools
    • Fight House Fires Through Design
    • Making the Move to Multifamily
  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work

Fine Home Building

Newsletter Sign-up

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox.

  • Green Building Advisor

    Building science and energy efficiency advice, plus special offers, in your inbox.

  • Old House Journal

    Repair, renovation, and restoration tips, plus special offers, in your inbox.

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters

Follow

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X

Membership & Magazine

  • Online Archive
  • Start Free Trial
  • Magazine Subscription
  • Magazine Renewal
  • Gift a Subscription
  • Customer Support
  • Privacy Preferences
  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Careers
  • Terms of Use
  • Site Map
  • Do not sell or share my information
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • California Privacy Rights

© 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

  • Home Group
  • Antique Trader
  • Arts & Crafts Homes
  • Bank Note Reporter
  • Cabin Life
  • Cuisine at Home
  • Fine Gardening
  • Fine Woodworking
  • Green Building Advisor
  • Garden Gate
  • Horticulture
  • Keep Craft Alive
  • Log Home Living
  • Military Trader/Vehicles
  • Numismatic News
  • Numismaster
  • Old Cars Weekly
  • Old House Journal
  • Period Homes
  • Popular Woodworking
  • Script
  • ShopNotes
  • Sports Collectors Digest
  • Threads
  • Timber Home Living
  • Traditional Building
  • Woodsmith
  • World Coin News
  • Writer's Digest
Active Interest Media logo
X
X
This is a dialog window which overlays the main content of the page. The modal window is a 'site map' of the most critical areas of the site. Pressing the Escape (ESC) button will close the modal and bring you back to where you were on the page.

Main Menu

  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Video
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Popular Topics

  • Kitchens
  • Business
  • Bedrooms
  • Roofs
  • Architecture and Design
  • Green Building
  • Decks
  • Framing
  • Safety
  • Remodeling
  • Bathrooms
  • Windows
  • Tilework
  • Ceilings
  • HVAC

Magazine

  • Current Issue
  • Past Issues
  • Magazine Index
  • Subscribe
  • Online Archive
  • Author Guidelines

All Access

  • Member Home
  • Start Free Trial
  • Gift Membership

Online Learning

  • Courses
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Podcast

More

  • FHB Ambassadors
  • FHB House
  • Customer Support

Account

  • Log In
  • Join

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Follow

  • X
  • YouTube
  • instagram
  • facebook
  • pinterest
  • Tiktok

Join All Access

Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.

Start Your Free Trial

Subscribe

FHB Magazine

Start your subscription today and save up to 70%

Subscribe

Enjoy unlimited access to Fine Homebuilding. Join Now

Already a member? Log in

We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.

Get complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.

Start your FREE trial

Already a member? Log in

Privacy Policy Update

We use cookies, pixels, script and other tracking technologies to analyze and improve our service, to improve and personalize content, and for advertising to you. We also share information about your use of our site with third-party social media, advertising and analytics partners. You can view our Privacy Policy here and our Terms of Use here.

Cookies

Analytics

These cookies help us track site metrics to improve our sites and provide a better user experience.

Advertising/Social Media

These cookies are used to serve advertisements aligned with your interests.

Essential

These cookies are required to provide basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website.

Delete My Data

Delete all cookies and associated data