Outdoor kitchens have become increasingly popular additions to backyards and patios. They provide extra space for cooking, entertaining, and storage. One key component of many outdoor kitchens is the cabinetry. Metal drawer boxes are a great option for outdoor kitchen cabinets because they are durable, weather-resistant, and allow for smooth sliding even in humid conditions. If you’re looking to purchase metal drawer boxes for your DIY or professionally installed outdoor kitchen, there are several places you can find quality products.
Specialty Retailers
Stores specializing in cabinetry, kitchen design, and hardware are good places to look for metal drawer boxes made specifically for outdoor use. Brands like Rev-A-Shelf and Elements make drawer boxes rated for exterior use from stainless steel or aluminum. Big box home improvement retailers may not have as much selection for specialty outdoor drawer boxes. Check with local kitchen and bath showrooms to see their selection of weather-resistant drawer boxes for outdoor cabinets.
Key Factors When Choosing Outdoor Drawer Boxes
- Material: Stainless steel and aluminum are common. Aluminum can be less expensive but may not resist corrosion as well over time. Look for a thick gauge metal for durability.
- Coating: Powder coated or enameled finishes add protection and color options. Be sure to get exterior-rated coatings.
- Construction: Dovetail joints, reinforced corners, and sturdy slides are signs of quality. Look for full-extension slides for easy access.
- Size: Standard kitchen drawer widths like 24”, 30”, and 36” are commonly available. Make sure to measure your cabinet openings.
- Weatherproofing: Gaskets and drain holes prevent water buildup inside the drawers. Some have venting features.
- Locks: Integrated locks can add security and peace of mind. Magnetic self-closing mechanisms help keep contents protected.
- Warranty: Better brands offer at least a 1-year warranty against defects. Lifetime warranties show increased durability.
Top Specialty Retailers for Outdoor Drawer Boxes
Some of the best sources for outdoor kitchen drawer boxes include:
- Grillnetics: Carries stainless steel drawer boxes from Rev-A-Shelf in a range of sizes. Products are rated for outdoor and high humidity use.
- Luxury BBQ: Features stainless steel drawer boxes from U-Line in 24” to 30” widths designed for outdoor kitchen islands.
- Patio Living Concepts: Sells aluminum drawer boxes from Elements specifically made for outdoor cabinets. Durable, weather-resistant construction.
- East Coast Hardware: Offers an “outdoor kitchen collection” with stainless steel drawer boxes made for humid, coastal area use. Five-year warranty.
- Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery: Carries brands like Rev-A-Shelf and Elements and their exterior drawer boxes. Order online or visit showrooms.
When it comes to specialty outdoor kitchen and BBQ retailers, you can often find higher-performing drawer boxes than mass retailers. Products are designed specifically for patio and outdoor use versus retrofitting indoor drawer boxes. Often they offer more finishes and options too. Check their websites for the full selection.
Hardware Stores
For DIY outdoor kitchen projects, many homeowners and builders shop at their local hardware store or home improvement warehouse for supplies. While the selection is often more limited than specialty stores, you can find quality metal drawer boxes rated for exterior use here.
What to Look for In-Store
Focus on finding drawer boxes made of stainless steel or aluminum in these departments:
- Kitchen cabinets and hardware: Some metal drawer boxes designed for indoor kitchen use can work outside if sealed properly. Look for all-welded joints without glue.
- Storage and garage: Metal tool storage drawer sets meant for garages and sheds can also be suitable if made of heavy-gauge steel.
- Outdoor kitchen displays: Many stores now have outdoor kitchen mockup displays. Check these for drawer boxes specifically marketed for outdoor use.
- Special order desk: Ask about placing a special order for premium outdoor drawer boxes the store doesn’t regularly stock.
While big box home centers may not have a huge in-stock selection of specialized outdoor drawer boxes, you can often find options by checking the above departments or ordering a special request.
Top Hardware Retailers to Check for Outdoor Drawer Boxes
The major home improvement chains to check include:
- Home Depot: Look in storage, garage, and cabinet departments. Brands like Rev-A-Shelf available for order.
- Lowe’s: Find some weatherproof drawer options online or in-store in hardware and cabinets. Brands like U-Line.
- Menard’s: Special order outdoor drawer boxes from Liberty Hardware or Elements.
- Ace Hardware: Check online for outdoor drawer collection from Elements. Independent stores may special order.
- True Value: Outdoor storage drawer sets available from Franklin Brass. Independent stores may vary.
Though selection is more limited, hardware stores offer the convenience of browsing in person, avoiding shipping costs, and making easy returns if needed. Be sure to inspect joints closely for weather resistance when purchasing.
Cabinetry Distributors
Another option contractors, remodelers, and some homeowners use for sourcing outdoor kitchen cabinets and parts is cabinet distributors. These businesses focus on selling drawers, doors, organizational products, and accessories to builders and cabinet shops.
Finding Distributors Near You
- Online directories: Websites like CabinetParts.com list distributors throughout the US. Search for those near you.
- Kitchen and bath associations: Member directories on the NKBA and KBIS sites help locate distributors.
- Manufacturer locator maps: Some brands like Rev-a-Shelf have store locators on their sites.
- Cabinetmaker recommendations: Custom cabinet shops may suggest distributors they work with who carry outdoor drawer boxes.
While less convenient for DIY home projects, cabinet distributors can offer wider selections, wholesale pricing, and more customization options. Be sure to ask about minimum order quantities which may apply.
Top Distributors for Outdoor Metal Drawer Boxes
Some of the largest national distributors to check include:
- Woodworker’s Hardware: Carries products like stainless steel drawer boxes from Rev-a-Shelf and Elements outdoor cabinet hardware.
- Kitchensource.com: Distributes drawer boxes from U-Line, Elements, and others rated for outdoor and high humidity use.
- CabinetParts.com: Features exterior-rated drawer boxes from Liberty Hardware and Elements in their outdoor hardware section.
- Hardwaresource.com: Stocks stainless steel drawer boxes made for outdoor kitchen islands, carts, and cabinets.
- Advantage Hardware: Distributes drawer boxes made specifically for outdoor use from top brands. Minimum orders often apply.
For the widest selection of sizes, finishes, and specialty options like locking and waterproof boxes, cabinet distributors are worth checking if purchasing for an entire outdoor kitchen project.
Buying Directly from Manufacturers
Purchasing directly from the manufacturers of metal drawer boxes is an option primarily for larger projects or commercial buyers. This ensures you’re getting an authentic product, but often has order minimums or is limited to business accounts.
How to Purchase Direct
- Check manufacturer websites: Many post prices and have online purchasing for commercial buyers with accounts only. Minimums apply.
- Call sales departments: Speak to sales reps about opening a business account for direct ordering if your project has sufficient volume.
- Find local dealers: Some manufacturers show where to purchase through local cabinet shops, dealers, or retailers on their sites.
- Email vendor requests: Contact manufacturer sales and customer service departments to ask about direct purchasing options for your specific project scale.
Unless you’re furnishing a large outdoor kitchen space for a restaurant or resort, buying direct from the manufacturer likely won’t make sense due to order minimums and business account requirements. But for the right project it provides maximum product selection.
Leading Manufacturers of Outdoor Metal Drawer Boxes
Some of the top makers of heavy duty, weather-resistant drawer boxes include:
- Rev-A-Shelf: Leading maker of sturdy, stainless steel outdoor drawer boxes available in dozens of sizes. Popular for residential projects.
- Elements: Manufactures aluminum drawer boxes designed specifically for outdoor kitchen cabinets, islands, and more.
- U-Line: Makes stainless steel drawer boxes for its own modular outdoor kitchen cabinet systems sold through retailers.
- Windquest: Known for stainless steel drawer boxes for outdoor kitchen cabinets for luxury yachts and residential use.
- Liberty Hardware: Produces kitchen and outdoor drawer boxes; parent company of residential brand Elements.
Buying direct tends to make the most sense for large hospitality, multi-family, or commercial spaces installing full outdoor kitchens versus one-off drawer purchases. Be sure to factor in shipping costs and minimums.
Online Marketplaces
For easy shipping and individual drawer box purchases, online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay are popular options. While selection is more limited than other channels, these sites provide convenience for DIY projects.
What to Look for in Listings
Focus on listings that clearly state the drawer boxes are:
- Rated for outdoor, patio, or exterior use
- Constructed from stainless steel or aluminum
- Include weatherproofing features like drainage holes
- Are from reputable kitchen brands if buying used products
- Have images showing durable design like dovetail joinery
- Are eligible for free or low-cost shipping through programs like Amazon Prime
Review seller ratings and check for a return policy in case you need to send any products back. Many third party sellers offer 1-year warranties on new drawer boxes as added purchase protection.
Benefits of Online Marketplace Purchases
Some perks of sourcing through Amazon, eBay, and similar platforms:
- Immediate availability with faster shipping versus direct manufacturers
- Can purchase just what you need for a DIY project rather than large orders
- Often more budget-friendly prices on specialty items that home stores may not carry
- Easy to access customer reviews from other buyers before purchasing
- Can sometimes find good condition secondhand or open box deals
While you sacrifice some selection and customization options, online marketplaces offer speed and affordability benefits for purchasing outdoor drawer boxes. Be sure to closely inspect shipments upon arrival.
Top Online Sources for Outdoor Metal Drawer Boxes
Some online sellers to check include:
- Amazon: Search “outdoor drawer boxes” to find brands like Elements, Rev-A-Shelf, and Liberty Hardware. Read reviews carefully.
- WebstaurantStore: Restaurant supplier selling aluminum outdoor drawer boxes from leader Elements.
- eBay: Search “outdoor kitchen drawers” to find auctions on brands like U-Line or Rev-A-Shelf. Check seller ratings.
- Walmart: Carries limited selection of Rev-A-Shelf exterior drawer boxes. Free 2-day shipping on orders $35+.
- Home Depot: Ships some Rev-A-Shelf stainless steel drawer boxes rated for outdoor use from their online inventory.
For a balance of selection and buying convenience, marketplace sites can be ideal. Focus purchases on top drawer box brands versus unknown third party sellers when possible for quality assurance.
Buying Used Products
While it’s always best to install new drawer boxes for maximum lifespan, one way to save on budget outdoor kitchen projects is to purchase high quality used products. Take care to carefully inspect any used drawer boxes for signs of wear prior to purchasing.
Where to Find Used Options
Great places to find pre-owned outdoor metal drawer boxes include:
- eBay: Search for brands like Rev-A-Shelf or Elements to find auctions for used boxes removed from previous projects.
- Facebook Marketplace: People may list spare drawer boxes here after doing outdoor kitchen upgrades.
- Craigslist: Check under cabinetry, kitchen, and garage sale sections for sellers offering used drawers.
- Habitat for Humanity ReStores: Call your local store to see if they have any donated cabinet parts on hand. Great source for budget finds.
- Garage and estate sales: Ask ahead if any outdoor kitchen cabinet components will be sold. Arrive early for best selection.
While more time intensive to locate, secondhand drawer boxes can provide major cost savings, often being resold at 50% or more below retail price if still in good shape.
Buying Used Safely
To make sure you’re getting quality used products:
- Inspect closely for dents, rust, damage, or wear before purchasing. Avoid boxes with joint separation or broken slides.
- Test slides to make sure drawers open and close smoothly without catching or rubbing.
- Ask what brand the boxes are if unsure when inspecting in person. Only consider top outdoor brands.
- Clean thoroughly once home and check for any signs of hidden corrosion or damage underneath.
- Look for a return period in case any issues arise once you uninstall and reinstall a used drawer at home.
While used drawer deals provide value, be selective and carefully vet any boxes for durability prior to purchasing to ensure a long secondary lifespan.
Key Takeaways
- Specialty retailers offer the widest selection designed specifically for exterior use. Look for brands like Rev-A-Shelf.
- Hardware stores provide cheaper accessibility for DIYers, though selection is more limited.
- Cabinet distributors cater more to pros and contractors, with wide product lines but possible minimums.
- Buying direct from manufacturers works for big projects but has account order minimums.
- Online marketplaces like Amazon provide convenience but can lack customization options.
- Used drawer boxes offer affordability if carefully inspected for quality prior to purchasing.
Whatever purchasing option you select, be sure to closely check metal drawer box construction for weatherproofing and durability to yield years of performance in your outdoor kitchen. With some savvy shopping, you can find the ideal solution for your storage needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Purchasing Outdoor Drawer Boxes
Q: Are plastic drawer boxes ok for outdoor kitchen cabinets?
A: Plastic is not recommended for exterior drawer boxes. It can warp or deteriorate over time when exposed to weather. Stainless steel and aluminum are your best options.
Q: How much do metal outdoor drawer boxes cost?
A: Pricing averages $75-$300 per drawer box, with most quality stainless steel options ranging from $125-$225 per box. Larger widths cost more.
Q: Where can I buy just one outdoor drawer box for a DIY repair?
A: Online retailers like Amazon allow you to purchase individual drawer boxes without large order minimums required at some distributors.
Q: What’s better – soft close or self close drawers?
A: Self closing drawers with magnetic or spring loaded hinges make the most sense for outdoor kitchens to contain contents securely when closed.
Q: Should I seal outdoor drawer boxes?
A: Use exterior grade silicone to seal any gaps and prevent moisture intrusion. Avoid solvent-based glues which can degrade metal.
Conclusion
Outdoor kitchens require durable, weather resistant drawer boxes that can stand up to humidity, rain, UV rays, and temperature swings. Stainless steel or aluminum construction provides needed longevity. When purchasing, shop specialty outdoor retailers first for the best selection. Hardware stores, distributors, manufacturers, and online sellers offer alternative options. With so many sources available, you can find high quality metal drawer boxes for your outdoor cabinet project at any budget level. Just be sure to inspect carefully for exterior rated designs. With proper installation, your new outdoor kitchen drawer boxes can provide years of smooth sliding performance.