Top-Rated Stud Finders for Detecting Studs Through Cabinets: A Practical Guide

When it comes to hanging heavy items such as shelves, mirrors, or even mounting a TV on a cabinet wall, detecting the studs behind the cabinet is crucial. Studs are the structural supports in your walls that provide the strength needed to safely hold heavy objects. However, this task can be tricky when the studs are hidden behind a cabinet, making it more challenging to locate them accurately.

Traditional stud finders work well on bare walls, but when you're dealing with cabinets---whether it's kitchen cabinetry, storage units, or other types of built-in furniture---you need a stud finder that can penetrate the material and detect the studs beneath. In this guide, we will discuss the best stud finders for detecting studs through cabinets, how to use them effectively, and provide a step-by-step process for mounting your items securely.

Why Detecting Studs Through Cabinets Is Challenging

When you're trying to detect studs behind cabinets, the main challenge lies in the fact that the cabinet material (typically wood, MDF, or plywood) can block the signal of a traditional stud finder. These materials can prevent the sensor from detecting the studs behind them effectively. Additionally, cabinetry often hides the typical stud placement patterns used in wall framing, making it even harder to locate the exact position of the studs.

Key Issues with Stud Detection Through Cabinets:

1. Material Interference : Cabinets are made of dense materials like wood and MDF, which can block the sensors in traditional stud finders from detecting studs behind the cabinet.
2. Inconsistent Stud Placement: In some cases, cabinets may be mounted using brackets or other fasteners that don't align with standard stud placements, complicating the search.
3. Surface Reflection : Cabinet surfaces might reflect the signal, preventing the stud finder from working as it would on an open wall.

Types of Stud Finders That Work Through Cabinets

To effectively detect studs through cabinets, you need to use a specialized type of stud finder or scanner that is capable of penetrating through dense materials. Here are the best types of stud finders that can help you locate studs behind cabinetry.

1. Deep Scan Stud Finders

A deep scan stud finder uses a more advanced sensor technology to detect studs deeper in the wall. This is ideal for cabinets, as the dense material can block the normal range of a traditional stud finder. A deep scan model uses multiple sensors to penetrate deeper into the wall, helping you locate studs even when they are hidden behind cabinets.

Recommended Tool:

• Zircon MultiScanner i520 : This is an advanced, multi-functional stud finder that features deep scan capability, allowing it to detect studs up to 1.5 inches deep. It's perfect for detecting studs behind cabinet materials and has a wide detection range for wood, metal, and live wires. This is especially useful for cabinets that are made from thicker materials like plywood or MDF.

2. Magnetic Stud Finders

Magnetic stud finders work by detecting nails or screws that are used to secure the cabinetry to the studs in the wall. Unlike electronic stud finders, magnetic finders rely on the presence of metal objects that are attached to the studs. These can be particularly effective when you're dealing with cabinets that have metal fasteners or screws.

Key Advantages:

• Affordable and Simple : Magnetic stud finders are relatively inexpensive and require no batteries or complex features.
• Reliable for Small Metal Objects: They can easily locate screws or nails hidden behind the cabinet material that are securing the studs.

Recommended Tool:

• The Original Magnetic Stud Finder: A reliable and cost-effective option for detecting metal fasteners behind cabinetry. This tool works by detecting nails or screws that are part of the stud structure. It's not as advanced as deep-scan models but can be very effective for those who need a basic, no-frills tool.

3. Wall Scanners with Multi-Detection Modes

Wall scanners are more advanced devices that can detect different materials and structures behind walls or cabinets. These scanners are particularly useful when you're not sure whether you're dealing with wood studs, metal reinforcements, or other materials hidden behind the cabinet. Wall scanners are often equipped with modes that allow them to detect the presence of studs, metal, and even live wires.

Key Features:

• Multiple Detection Modes : Wall scanners can switch between detecting wood studs, metal, and live electrical wiring.
• Deeper Penetration: Some models have the ability to detect studs through thicker materials such as cabinetry and drywall.

Recommended Tool:

• Bosch GMS120 Digital Multi-Scanner : This is a versatile wall scanner with four detection modes, including wood, metal, and live wire detection. It is highly effective for finding studs behind cabinets and can scan through various materials. The Bosch GMS120 is particularly suitable for users who want more flexibility in their stud finding tools.

How to Use a Stud Finder to Detect Studs Behind Cabinets

Once you've selected a stud finder that suits your needs, it's time to get started on locating the studs behind the cabinets. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure accuracy and efficiency.

Step 1: Choose the Right Stud Finder

Select a stud finder based on your cabinet material and the type of stud finder that suits your project. If your cabinet is made from thick plywood, MDF, or other solid materials, consider using a deep scan model or wall scanner. If you're looking for a more basic solution, a magnetic stud finder may be sufficient.

Step 2: Calibrate the Stud Finder

Before using any stud finder, it's important to calibrate it. Most electronic stud finders require calibration to ensure accurate readings. For magnetic stud finders, simply ensure that the magnet is clean and functioning. For wall scanners, you might need to calibrate the tool according to the manufacturer's instructions, which usually involves placing the tool flat against the cabinet surface.

Step 3: Position the Stud Finder on the Cabinet Surface

Place the stud finder flat against the surface of the cabinet where you suspect the studs are located. Slowly move the device across the area, paying attention to the signals or indicators that the stud finder provides. Most stud finders will signal when they detect a stud, either with a light, a beep, or a visual indicator.

Step 4: Mark the Stud Locations

Once the stud finder signals the location of a stud, mark the spot with a pencil or masking tape. Move the stud finder across the area, marking additional stud locations as you go. Remember to always check the readings of the stud finder in multiple spots to ensure accuracy.

Step 5: Drill Pilot Holes to Verify the Stud Location

After marking the stud locations, it's a good idea to drill a small pilot hole through the cabinet material to verify the exact location of the stud. This step will ensure you're drilling in the right spot and not missing the stud entirely.

Tips for Successful Stud Detection Through Cabinets

• Take Your Time : Don't rush the process of finding studs. Carefully use the stud finder and verify the location with multiple readings to ensure accuracy.
• Use Pilot Holes : Before installing heavy items, always drill pilot holes to confirm the stud's location and avoid damaging the cabinet.
• Avoid Overloading : Even though you've found a stud, always consider the weight of the item you're hanging. If the cabinet material is weak, use appropriate anchors or wall plugs.
• Test Multiple Areas: Sometimes, stud placement can vary in cabinets, especially if it's custom cabinetry. Don't hesitate to check multiple spots to find the most secure stud location.

Conclusion

Detecting studs behind cabinets is an essential skill for mounting heavy items or making structural adjustments to your living space. Choosing the right stud finder---whether a deep scan model, magnetic stud finder, or wall scanner---can make the task easier and more reliable. With the tools and techniques outlined in this guide, you'll be able to mount your items securely and safely, even if they're behind cabinets made from dense materials like plywood or MDF.

Remember to always take your time, calibrate your stud finder properly, and verify stud locations before proceeding with any drilling. By following these steps, you can confidently hang items like shelves, TVs, or mirrors without compromising the integrity of your cabinetry.