7 Best Screws for Cabinets Mounting and Installation

So, you’ve decided to put up some cabinets.

But have you thought about the type of screws that will hold them in place? It’s an important decision – the best screws for cabinets will ensure your cabinets are stable, durable and look great.

We’ll delve into the details of which screws are best for cabinet installations, taking into consideration things like length, diameter, head type and material.

By the end of this article, you’ll be an expert in choosing screws for your cabinet project!

Our Top Picks

Best screws for hanging cabinets

1. Jake Sales Head Screw – Best Overall
2. Fastcap Torx Powerhead Screw – Best Cabinet Hanging Screws for Heavy Loads
3. GRK – Best Non-splitting cabinet joining screws
4. Kreg Pocket Screws – Best Self-Tapping Screws for kitchen cabinets
5. GRK Trim Handy 8 X 2½” Head Screw – Best Screws for Cabinet Face Frames
6. WoodPro Fasteners – Best Fast-driving kitchen cabinet mounting screws
7. H.C Pull Machine Screws – Best for Size Options

Need for special screws for mounting cabinets

Special screws are often used for cabinet installation because they have specific features that make them more suitable for the task. Some of the factors to consider when choosing the right screw for cabinet installation include:

1. Length: The screw must be long enough to go through the cabinet and into the wall or frame securely without poking out the other side.
2. Diameter: The diameter of the screw should match the size of the pre-drilled hole in the cabinet. Using a screw that is too thick can cause the wood to split or crack.
3. Material: Cabinet screws are usually made from hardened steel, which is strong and durable and can resist corrosion and rust.
4. Head type: The head of the screw should be flat, so it can sit flush with the surface of the cabinet. A countersunk head is often used for this purpose.
5. Drive Type: The drive type is also important, as it determines the tool needed to install the screw. Common drive types include Phillips, square, and Torx.
6. Coating: Some cabinet screws may have a coating that helps to reduce friction and make installation easier.

Overall, choosing the right screw for cabinet installation is important to ensure a secure and long-lasting result.

Types of Cabinet Screws

Using the right screws to attach cabinets together is essential to ensure stability and longevity.

There are several types of cabinet screws available, each with unique features and benefits.

From pan head to trim head, understanding the differences between these screws can help you choose the best option for your project.

 1. Cabinet to Wall Screws (Hanging Cabinets)

 This is the toughest of the bunch, as it can hold hanging cabinets and their contents. Here’s what to look for in the hardware store so you’ll get the right cabinet-to-wall screw:

• Big, flat head that has shear strength and stronger hold.
• An aggressive thread that can properly penetrate and stay in the lumber.
• Self-tapping design that ensures smooth penetration and not causes splitting.
• Long enough to cover the cabinet’s thickness and go through the wall.

Pro tips: When installing kitchen cabinets, the upper cabinet from the leftmost side should be the first cabinet to be installed. This way, you’ll be free to move while working on the remaining cabinets.

Moreover, after marking your wall with a chalk line, drill a pilot hole into the wall and cabinet for fast, easy installation.

In putting up the first cabinet, use a ledger board to ensure this and a neighboring cabinet are aligned. The bottom edge of the upper cabinets should be 16 to 17 inches from the base cabinets.

You can always use a filler strip even if your measurements go awry. Filler strips come in handy, especially for L-shaped cabinets.

2. Cabinet-to-cabinet screws (Frameless or face-splitting frame)

This type of cabinet screw can have the sides closely attached so there’s no gap between them or the face frames.

For this purpose, use a screw with a washer head, cast steel, and a recessed star drive. That’s why washer head screws, including cabinets, are great for making furniture.

3. Cabinet-to-cabinet screws (Face frame)

Trim head screws ensure a face frame cabinet’s frames are aligned and attached. These screws have small heads that can hide at the edge of the face frame. With this, the cabinet can hold contents.

4. Cabinet-to-cabinet post screws (Frameless)

Frameless cabinets have become popular recently because these make contents more accessible and give more storage space. But these need a cabinet screw to be installed tightly.

For this, you have a male and female side that you can join together from either side of the two cabinets. This is usually used at the top and bottom shelf pin holes.

Pro tip: We suggest that you use Loctite to make it tighter.

5. Trim head screws

You can easily tell trim head screws from flat head screws by the size of the screw head. Trim head or finish head screw with a small head that can be easily hidden.

For cabinets are placed in the face frame so you can control the frame’s grip. These are used to assemble cabinets and for decorative molding and Trim. These Trims are usually available at a big box store.

6. Machine screws (for drawers)

Machine screws are used to affix knobs and handle on cabinets. For this, stack up screws in different sizes. Note that most custom cabinet fronts are 3/4″,  and drawer sides 3/4.″

To put knobs, you’ll need about 1/4″  of screw length. A 1-5/8″ machine screw can make the installation smoother. The problem is that more hardware manufacturers don’t make this type of screw.

See: How to make wooden drawers slide more easily.

7. Confirmat screw 

Confirmat screws are designed for putting furniture together. What makes them stand out is a very coarse, sharp-angled thread.

These can be cut into MDF & chipboard materials. Confirmat screws are particularly effective for right-angle butt joints. 

Best Cabinets Screw Reviews

 Choosing the correct screw for kitchen cabinets is a little daunting, given the diverse needs and purposes, parts of the cabinet, and its make.

This list of the best cabinet screws is a product of research and numerous testing.

1. Best screws for cabinet installation – Jake Sales Head Screw

Jake Sales Head Screws are renowned for their durability, strength and make. The truss washers have been changed to make them stronger. The bronze coating has three layers which make it tougher.

The core is made of heat-treated steel for extra shear strength. Professional users have praised its performance; they find it their go-to screw when something needs fixing in the home.

Although a bit pricier, its value is worth it; some users claim that none of their screws broke while being screwed on. Reports have shown that the bronze coating only lasts as expected, and we offer limited length options.

This product will serve your needs.

What I Liked Most

• Truss washers give high compression strength.
• The triple-layer bronze coating makes it tough.
• Heat-treated steel adds shear strength.

What Could Be Improved

• A bit pricey
• The bronze coating doesn’t last as expected
• Limited length options

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2. Best Cabinet Hanging Screws for Heavy Loads – Fastcap Torx Powerhead Screw

I love the Fastcap Torx Powerhead screw because it ticks all the boxes for cabinet screws. It’s long enough to get through wall cabinets and has extra length to be firmly wedged into the wall.

The square-shaped drive system and exterior zinc finish makes it more durable, which is great for upper cabinets. Its thread type and point style make it easy to go through lumber.

The flat head ensures that it is tightly embedded, and being one of the Torx screws, there is reduced cam out. And with its design, it blends into the wall after installation.

Each pack contains 150 screws; hence I can finish the job no matter how many screws are needed. The only downside is that thin wall cabinets can be too long, so I need to ensure it suits my project before purchasing.

What I Liked Most

• Can carry heavy loads, good for upper cabinets
• Penetrates lumber easily
• Flat head secures cabinet in place
• Great value
• Durable
• Hides well after cabinet installation

What Could Be Improved

• It can be too long for thin cabinets
• Leaves noticeable small holes

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3. Best Non-splitting cabinet joining screws – GRK Cabinet Bulk 8 by 2-12 inch (GRKCAB8212B)

I have found that GRK Cabinet Bulk 8 is the perfect combination of thin and strong. It easily penetrates lumber without causing any splitting, and its washer design makes it easy to screw in place once it is through.

It is priced higher than other options, but I have found that only a few will break, if at all. Some users might find the size a bit small and may not be compatible with some power drivers, meaning it tends to pop out.

I believe that it is worth the price.

What I Liked Most

• Thin and strong
• Penetrates lumber without splitting
• It can be easily screwed into place
• Looks great

What Could Be Improved

• The sizes might be a bit small
• Not compatible with some power drivers

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4. Best Screws for cabinet face frames – GRK Trim Handy 8 X 2½” Head Screw

I find Trim Trimy cabinet screws to be among the best. They’re small enough not to cause splitting when installing, yet they are well-designed to go through lumber easily.

It has a self-tapping thread design and a small head; installation is a no-sweat process. I suggest pre-drilling holes beforehand to ensure that the lumber won’t split. And as a bonus, each screw is packaged with a drill head that perfectly fits it.

Once they’re in, I’m sure they’re in place and even though they aren’t made of stainless steel, they have waterproof coating. The downside is that some users may find these cabinet face frame screws set a bit pricey.

If you want to ensure the screws are extra secured, use square drive screws with pocket hole joinery. It requires fewer holes and screws for assembling a cabinet face frame.

What I Liked Most

• Great design and quality
• Excellent in securing face frames
• Dependable holding power
• Easy to use
• Has waterproof coating
• Comes with drill heads

What Could Be Improved

• Needs pre-drilling on hardwoods
• Not made of stainless steel
• A tad pricey

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5. Best Self-Tapping Screws for kitchen cabinets – Kreg SML-C250-2000 2½ Pocket Screws

I always reach for Kreg SML-C250-2000 2½ pocket screws whenever I’m working on a project exposed to moisture or water. They have an anti-rust capability that is perfect for replacing doors and cabinet frames damaged by moisture.

It has square drive heads, which ensure cabinet joints are securely fastened and resistant to cam outs. A hard steel case surrounds the screw to withstand going through thick cabinets.

The 17-inch auger is also great since it’s a self-tapping edge that easily penetrates the lumber without splitting. And based on what other users say, only 1 of 1,000 screws breaks before getting into the lumber – definitely worth buying in bulk.

Pocket screws cannot be used on walls made of wood. So, it is important to drill holes in the cabinet before using the pocket screws. That way, you can guarantee a secure and long-lasting installation.

Overall, Kreg SML-C250-2000 2½ pocket screws are a great investment for any carpentry project.

What I Liked Most

• Anti-rust capability
• Great design
• Value for money, especially when bought in bulk;
• Easy to use
• Strong holding power

What Could Be Improved

• Not suitable for wood-to-wall installation
• Needs pre-drilling

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6. Best Fast-driving kitchen cabinet mounting screws – WoodPro Fasteners CB8X234

I find WoodPro Fasteners CB8X234 incredibly convenient because they slide quickly and easily into the lumber.

Their 17-point tip is more amazing for getting inside the wood than other options. Even better, I don’t need to drill a hole since these fasteners can punch through the lumber.

I’ve been happy with the strength of these kitchen cabinet fasteners and how smooth they get into the wood. The only downside is that they come in one size, so I have limited applications for them.

What I Liked Most

• Easily penetrates wood
• 17 point tip means no need for pre-drilling
• Head stays firmly in place

What Could Be Improved

• Does not have a proper coating
• Only available in one size

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7. Best for size options – H.C Pull Machine Screws

When assembling my cabinet, I wasn’t sure what size of screws to get. That’s why I went with the H.C. Pull Machine Screws – they come in 11 different sizes, so I’m sure to find the right one.

The zinc-plated steel ensures reliability and protection against rust and corrosion. Plus, you get 25 screws per pack, a great value.

The screws do a good job of keeping things in place. But some people have said they would like the head of the screw to be bigger so it won’t take off too easily. Despite this minor issue, I’m satisfied with my purchase.

What I Liked Most

• Comes in 11 different sizes
• Made up of quality steel
• Has zinc coating, which protects against rust and corrosion
• Great value, has 25 screws per pack 

What Could Be Improved

• Small heads may not suit all applications
• Possible for a coating to get stripped

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Best Screws for Cabinet Making Comparison Table

The Basic Anatomy of a Screw

A screw is composed of five parts: head, drive, shank, thread, and tip.

Head

This refers to the top of the screw; the drive is also part of the head. There are two types of screw head styles – countersunk and non-countersunk. Countersunk has an angled shape underneath the head.

This requires countersinking so that the lumber will not split when you use a drill or put pressure. When one penetrates the lumber, the head will sit flush on the surface, with little or no protruding parts.

Thus, these are used in projects where the screw head should be submerged or at the same level of the surface. These are usually used on bridge decks, walkways, and handrails.

 Non-countersunk, on the other hand, is flat under the head and does not need countersinking.

Learn more: How to extract a screw with no head.

Drive

This is the shape of the mechanism that enables screws to be in place. Types of the drive include cross-head, star, square, hex socket, slotted, Philips, Robertson and Torx drive.

Noteworthy is the torx drive, which prevents cam out and has a drive system that has the screw tight and more secure in the wood.

Shank

This refers to the long and narrow body connecting the head to the tip. Most screws have a fully threaded shank that’s defined by helical ridges.

Thread

This is the ridge wrapped around a cylinder or cone in the form of a helix, with the former being called a straight thread and the latter called a tapered thread.

Tip

This refers to the pointed end of a screw. The tip is crucial for the screw to penetrate the wood.

Kitchen Cabinet Installation Screws Buyer’s Guide

Size

One consideration in choosing screw size is the make-up of the wall the cabinet is going to be hung. Screw sizes may vary from 2-1/2″ up to 3-1/2″); the ideal screw to attach cabinets to a wall would be No.8 or No. 10 screws. These are around 3½ inches long.

For cabinet knobs, you’ll usually see standard #8-32 threading. It’s also better if the screw has a Truss head design, which has a flatter profile than a regular head screw.

Construction

Regardless of the cabinet make, a screw for wall cabinets should have a large, flathead design. This ensures that they can hold up the cabinet. For the cabinet to cabinet construction, you’ll just need regular cabinet screws.

Coating

A good coating is a must, regardless of the material of the cabinet. With this, your screw will be protected against rust and corrosion. There are those coated with zinc, anti-corrosion layers, and polymers.

Head

Cabinet screws have a star-style head, different from the flat head the regular screws. This is good as this prevents stripping. The design also protects against tampering and ensures the screw is tightly in place.

Quantity

Be ready with at least 10 screws. The number will increase depending on the model. Best to buy in bulk rather than be back in the store or order again. Plus, in most cases, those with numerous also have a kit of fasteners, giving you great value.

Torque & Speed

What’s important is the speed a screw goes through materials. So choose screws that will drive quickly and effortlessly.

Three Screws Types to Avoid

As mentioned earlier, not all screws can be used to secure wall cabinets. For this, we have to consider the holding power and how the head will not let the whole cabinet slip off.

In the same manner, not all screws are suitable for the cabinet’s joints and for installing drawers and doors. There are, however, three screws that you must not use in installing cabinets:

Drywall screws

There are a couple of reasons drywall screws are unsuitable for installing wall cabinets. First is its bugle head. With this head type, drywall screws tend to get buried into the lumber instead of sticking out of the lumber and holding the cabinet in place.

Moreover, drywall screws have Phillip’s head. With this, you need to press down the screw while turning it to avoid cam-out. This while you’re holding the wall cabinet on the other hand. Further, these type of screws is a little brittle.

Hence, it’s risky to put the weight of the cabinet on it. Note that cabinet screws are also thicker than drywall screws and have sharper tips which make them better for installing cabinets.

The bottom line is a drywall screw is designed to hold onto a metal stud. Keep it on your drywall. Best to use a cabinet screw for your cabinet.

Drawer manufacturer screws

Avoid these because they are not dependable for drawer slides. They will not last years, especially if you put a lot of contents and frequently open and close the drawer. A good alternative is a Rok #8 screw.

Deck/outdoor screws

Although it’s possible to use this, it’s not advisable, considering the screw’s length and the weight of the cabinet and its contents.

If you must use deck screws, you can use  2½-inch deck screws (with washers) through the back of the cabinet and insert them into metal studs. To be safe, ascertain stud locations with a stud finder.

This configuration is useful when installing a corner cabinet, as you insert screws into studs to hold it. The trick is to use slip shims or T-bases so that it will be easy to hang your corner cabinet as you drill pilot holes into the cabinet and wall and place the screws into the studs.

Pilot holes are more than guides. They allow you to put a nail or screw into the cabinet with less force, avoiding splitting and cracking. To be sure, pilot holes should have the same diameter as your screw.

Pro tip: If you’re unsure of the drill bit size you need, check the widths of the bit and screw. If these are similar, the screw will fit the pilot hole.

After the cabinets are installed, you can remove any of the visible shims from the cabinet’s edges by using a utility knife.

Interesting read: Deck screw gun buying guide.

FAQs

What size screws are best to attach cabinets to the wall?

Attach cabinets to the wall using No. 8 or No. 10 screws, approximately 3½ inches long. 10″ X 3″ screws are ideal for securing cabinets if there are studs on the other side and for concrete walls.

Are cabinet screws the same as wood screws?

No, cabinet screws are not the same as wood screws. The difference is noticeable in their build and appearance. Their shapes are different, most especially on the head. Wood screws usually have flat heads., Cabinet screws, on the other hand, usually have washer-like heads.

What Screws Are Used To Connect Cabinets Together?

When it comes to connecting cabinets, you can use three distinct types of screws. For face frame cabinets, opt for trim-head screws that you drill directly into the frames. As for frameless varieties, shorter screws or Chicago bolts will do fine in securely attaching them together.

How Strong Are Cabinet Screws?

Crafted to afford maximum strength and support, four to five cabinet screws can securely bear a weight of up to 600 pounds. The Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association says that the heaviest things you can put in kitchen cabinets should not be more than 600 pounds. Some companies say it should be less than 500 pounds.

How Many Screws Do I Need To Install Cabinets?

For wall screws, make sure you have four screws per foot of the cabinet and then an additional four to connect cabinets together.

How long should cabinet screws be?

Screw length depends on the make of the wall. Most screws range from 2-1/2″ up to 3-1/2.

See also: Best pressure-treated wood screws.

What screws to use for cabinets?

The best screws for cabinet making are the ones that have strong holding power and aggressive thread that can easily penetrate and stay in place. Besides this strength, they should be able to penetrate wood quickly and without splitting.

It also should have a coating that protects against rust and corrosion. Price is a factor, but consider the number of screws in a pack.

Buying one pack with more screws will give you more value, as you have to think of the number of screws that would cam-out or not be usable and needs to be replaced.

Plus, learn the tricks of putting screws and installing cabinets so you can accomplish the job quickly. For instance, drilling a pilot hole will lessen the risk of splitting the wood.

The time you spend drilling is the little inconvenience that can prolong the cabinet’s usage. And in case there’s a gap between the cabinet and the wall, a filler strip is a remedy.

Moreover, ensure that the screws you purchase are made specifically for cabinets and stay away from drywall screws and deck/outdoor screws.

Also, it’s better to purchase third-party screws for drawers, not rely on those pre-packaged by the manufacturer. Ultimately, your choice will depend on the cabinet make, age, and the thickness of the wall to which you’ll attach the cabinet.

Here is a guide on how to screw into wood without drilling in 3 easy ways.