Microwave Oven Cabinet Installation: Screw Size For Success (2024)

If you're installing a microwave, it's important to know the correct screw size. Lowe's offers a wide range of microwaves, from countertop to over-the-range models, and provides detailed instructions on how to install them. When removing an old microwave, you'll need to disconnect it, remove the support screws, and pull it out. The process involves specific measurements and tools, such as a stud finder and drill bits. Lowe's also offers buying guides and tips to help you choose the right microwave for your needs and space constraints.

Screws for mounting brackets

When mounting a microwave, it is important to take careful measurements and prepare the necessary tools. The screws required for mounting brackets will depend on the type of microwave you are installing.

For instance, if you are installing an over-the-range microwave, you will need to consider the height and depth of the microwave and ensure that it is compatible with your range. The typical recommendation is to have 30 inches from the top of the range to the bottom of the cabinet and at least 13-1/2 inches from the top of the range to the bottom of the microwave. You will also need to determine whether the microwave will plug into an outlet or if it needs to be hard-wired.

The screws required for mounting an over-the-range microwave may vary depending on the specific model and installation instructions. In some cases, you may need to use toggle bolts if the microwave is not secured directly into wall studs. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific model of microwave you are installing.

Additionally, when installing shelves or closet hardware, you may require specific mounting screws such as the Everbilt Platinum Shelf Bracket Mounting Screws. This particular product comes in a pack of eight, including four 1-1/2 inch screws and four 5/8 inch screws. These screws are designed to match your other closet hardware and are made of durable steel for lasting use.

When mounting a TV bracket, the type and size of screws required may vary depending on the brand and model of your TV and the mounting bracket. The most common screw for securing a TV to a wall bracket is an M8 screw, but other sizes such as M4, M5, and M6 may also be used. The length of the screw will depend on the depth of your specific TV. It is recommended to use spacers on the screws to allow for airflow behind the TV.

Screw size for cabinet wood type

The screw size for your cabinet will depend on the type of wood and the weight of the items the cabinet will hold. For instance, if you're installing kitchen cabinets, you'll need to consider the weight of a cabinet full of dishes and glassware.

There are two types of screws commonly used for fastening wood: steel or stainless steel wood screws, and utility screws (also known as deck screws). Steel or stainless steel wood screws are used for precision woodworking and indoor furniture. Utility screws are used for framing carpentry and outdoor projects.

For kitchen cabinets, it is recommended to use No. 8 or No. 10 screws, approximately 3 1/2 inches long. To attach the cabinets to each other, use a No. 8 2 1/4-inch-long trim-head screw with a fine thread suited for hardwood.

When selecting a screw, it is important to consider the length and thickness (gauge). The screw must be long enough to hold the boards together securely, but if it is too long, it will pierce through to the other side. The screw must also be thick enough to grab onto the boards without pulling out or splitting the wood.

For general furniture construction and cabinets, a #8 screw is recommended. For heavy-duty construction, a #10 or larger screw is more suitable.

Screwdriver type and size

When installing an over-the-range microwave, you will need to use a screwdriver to remove the support screws from inside the cabinet above the microwave. The screwdriver you need will depend on the type of screw used to secure the microwave.

There are many different types of screws, but the most common types of screws used in cabinet installation are Phillips-head screws and flat-head screws. Phillips-head screws have a cross-shaped indentation on the head, while flat-head screws have a single linear indentation.

To determine the correct screwdriver type and size, first identify the type of screw head. If the screw has a cross-shaped indentation, you will need a Phillips-head screwdriver. If the screw has a single linear indentation, you will need a flat-head screwdriver.

Once you have identified the type of screw head, you need to select the correct size of screwdriver. Screwdrivers are sized according to the length and width of the screwdriver tip. The length of the screwdriver is important for reaching screws that are located in tight spaces. The width of the screwdriver tip should match the width of the screw head.

For Phillips-head screws, the size of the screwdriver is indicated by the size of the cross-shaped indentation on the screw head. Common sizes for Phillips-head screwdrivers include #0, #1, #2, and #3, with #0 being the smallest and #3 being the largest.

For flat-head screws, the size of the screwdriver is indicated by the width of the blade. Common sizes for flat-head screwdrivers include 3/16 inch, 1/4 inch, and 5/16 inch, with 3/16 inch being the smallest and 5/16 inch being the largest.

When selecting a screwdriver, it is important to choose one that is made of durable material, such as steel or chromium-vanadium alloy. The handle of the screwdriver should also be comfortable to hold and provide a good grip to facilitate turning the screws.

In addition to a screwdriver, you may also need a drill with the appropriate drill bits to create pilot holes for the mounting screws. The size of the drill bit will depend on the size of the mounting screws that come with your microwave.

By choosing the correct type and size of screwdriver, you can ensure a smooth and efficient installation process for your over-the-range microwave.

Screw size for wall template

When installing an over-the-range microwave, the screw size will depend on the type of wall and the weight of the microwave. The screw size for a wall template will vary depending on the material of the wall and the weight of the object being mounted.

For mounting an over-the-range microwave, it is important to use the correct type and size of screws to ensure a secure installation. The wall template provided with the microwave will have designated screw holes that need to be marked and drilled. The size of the screws will depend on whether the screws need to be secured to a wall stud or if toggle bolts will be used. Standard wood screws are typically used for mounting microwaves, and the length and thickness of the screws will depend on the thickness of the cabinet and the weight of the microwave.

Now, for the screw size for a wall template, it is important to select the appropriate screw size to ensure a secure and stable mounting. The screw size will depend on the material of the wall and the weight of the object being mounted.

For mounting objects on drywall or plaster walls, it is common to use plastic wall plugs, also known as anchor sleeves or wall anchors, in combination with screws. The size of the wall plug and screw will depend on the weight of the object being mounted. For light to medium-weight objects, such as pictures, shelves, or small cabinets, a typical screw size would be between #6 and #10, with a length ranging from 1 to 1.5 inches. The corresponding wall plug size would typically be a red or brown plug, which corresponds to a hole size of 6 mm or 7 mm, respectively.

For heavier objects or for mounting on more robust walls like concrete or brick, larger screw sizes and wall plugs may be necessary. For example, a 1/4-inch or #12 screw with a length of 2 to 2.5 inches would be suitable for mounting heavier objects. The corresponding wall plug size would typically be a blue or grey plug, which corresponds to a hole size of 10 mm or larger.

It is important to note that the screw size should be slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the wall plug to ensure a secure fit. Additionally, the length of the screw should be chosen based on the thickness of the object being mounted and the depth of the wall plug. The screw should penetrate the wall plug and the wall material sufficiently to provide a strong and stable connection.

In some cases, for very heavy objects or for mounting on particularly challenging walls, it may be necessary to use specialized fasteners such as expanding bolts, also known as wall anchors or wedge anchors. These fasteners typically require a larger hole and provide a more secure hold by expanding behind the wall surface.

When selecting the appropriate screw size for a wall template, it is crucial to consider the weight of the object being mounted and the material of the wall. By choosing the right screw size and type, you can ensure a secure and long-lasting installation.

Screw length for mounting

When mounting a microwave, it is important to take careful measurements. The typical recommendation is to have 30 inches from the top of the range to the bottom of the cabinet and at least 13-1/2 inches from the top of the range to the bottom of the microwave.

The hardware packet for a GE microwave includes Wood Screws (3/16” x 2”), Toggle Bolts (and wing nuts) (1/4” x 3”), and Self-aligning Machine Screw (1/4”-28 x 3-1/4”).

Microwave cabinet mounting bolts are approximately 4 inches long. These bolts are model-specific and are used to hold the top of the microwave to the upper cabinet.

If you are missing the top screws that secure your microwave to the top cabinet, you can try to find a replacement that matches the exact size. If the bolt hole is stripped, you can try to attach a nut that fits the bolt to the top of the microwave with epoxy, cut a small notch into the side and slip in a nut epoxied to a washer, or drill a new hole and insert a screw.

Frequently asked questions