How to Attach Wood Trim to Metal Studs

How to Attach Wood Trim to Metal Studs
Written By
Doug Berthon
Doug Berthon
Published: Mar 13, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Things You Will Need

  • Drill
  • 9/64-inch drill bit
  • 2 1/4 inch square-drive, fine-threaded trim screws
  • Construction adhesive
  • Stud finder or magnet
  • Nail gun and nails

You can successfully install your trim to your metal studs once you know the process.

Attaching Trim Where a Stud is Found

  1. Locate the steel studs with a magnet or stud finder where the trim will be attached. If using a magnet, hold the magnet between your thumb and first finger while sliding it against the wall. Keep the magnet about 1/8 of an inch from the wall. You will feel a tug where the studs are located.

  2. Drive an 8d finish nail into the wall to verify the stud locations.

  3. Drill a 9/64-inch pilot hole in the trim at each stud location.

  4. Attach the trim with a drill and 2 1/4-inch fine-threaded trim screws.

Attaching Trim to the Wall Where There is No Stud

  1. Apply construction adhesive on the back of the trim.

  2. Set the trim in its location and place two nails in opposite directions into the drywall. This technique helps to keep the trim from pulling away from the wall. This must be done with a nail gun.

  3. Apply pressure to the trim by placing a kicker against it. Creativity is essential here. Use a 3/4-inch board to but against a wall or cabinet and the trim. This is only necessary if the trim is not sitting tight against the wall.

Photo Credits

Turn of on screw image by Marek Kosmal from Fotolia.com

Turn of on screw image by Marek Kosmal from Fotolia.com

Doug Berthon

Doug Berthon is an enrolled agent and owns ProActive Tax & Accounting LLC. He earned his Bachelor of Science in accounting from Metropolitan University in St. Paul, Minn.

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