Outdoor cabinets, whether made of wood, metal, or plastic, need protection from the elements to stay in good condition. Excess moisture can lead to warping, corrosion, rot, mold growth, and more. Protecting outdoor cabinets is crucial for longevity and appearance. Follow these tips to properly safeguard outdoor cabinets from water damage.
Choose Appropriate Materials
Selecting suitable materials is the first step in protecting outdoor cabinets. Consider these guidelines when choosing cabinet materials:
Wood
- Opt for naturally rot-resistant woods like cedar, cypress, and teak. Avoid particle board or low-density fiberboard as they deteriorate rapidly outdoors.
- Use exterior-grade plywood with waterproof glue for a durable option. Marine-grade plywood is best.
- Choose wood treated with water-repellent preservatives. Look for terms like “exterior” and “weather/water resistant.”
Metal
- Powder-coated steel and aluminum are very water-resistant options. Opt for heavy-gauge metals.
- Stainless steel is rust-resistant but more expensive. Good for coastal areas.
- Avoid unfinished steel as it corrodes easily. Don’t use indoor metal cabinets outside.
Plastics/Composites
- Polyethylene and polypropylene plastics resist moisture well.
- PVC, vinyl, and resin materials hold up better than wood pulp composites.
- Avoid any cabinet with visible wood shavings/particles as moisture causes rapid swelling.
Select cabinet materials rated for outdoor/wet use. Avoid any unfinished, porous, or absorbent materials.
Use Protective Coatings
Applying water-repellent finishes and paints prevents moisture damage:
Sealants
- Penetrating wood sealants (e.g. linseed oil) protect against water absorption. Reapply annually.
- Spar varnish forms a glossy moisture barrier ideal for outdoor use. Apply 2-3 coats.
- Waterproofing sealers for masonry/concrete (e.g. silanes/siloxanes) reduce porosity.
Paints
- Exterior-grade acrylic latex paint sheds water once fully cured. Scuff sand between coats.
- Oil-based alkyd paints create an impermeable finish but require mineral spirits for cleanup.
- Marine paints withstand moisture, sun, and salt spray on boats. Great for seaside cabinets.
- Renew paints/sealants every 2-3 years as they degrade over time.
Plastic Coatings
- Flexible vinyl coatings adhere to many surfaces, providing a waterproof barrier.
- Polyurethane coatings form a durable, abrasion-resistant finish. 2-part versions last longer.
- Epoxy paints resist moisture, chemicals, and impact while providing UV protection.
Apply coatings per manufacturer directions, allowing proper drying/curing times. Sand and prep surfaces thoroughly before applying finishes.
Utilize Overhangs for Shelter
Installing overhangs above the cabinets prevents direct water exposure:
- Roof overhangs, awnings, and pergolas provide protection from falling rain.
- Overhangs must extend at least 2-3 feet past the cabinet to keep rain off. Larger is better.
- Place cabinets in covered spots like under eaves and porches whenever possible.
- Alternatively, build a dedicated overhang just above the cabinets for full coverage.
Position cabinets away from areas where water drips down from overhead structures. Overhangs divert rainwater and help keep cabinets dry.
Keep Cabinet Interiors Dry
The cabinet interior should remain dry to prevent moisture damage:
- Caulk around doors, corners, joints, and hardware using silicone caulk. Seal any gaps.
- Install weatherstripping around doors to prevent water intrusion. Choose high-density stripping.
- Keep contents organized so items don’t press against cabinet sides. Allow airflow.
- Avoid storing paper or easily water-damaged materials in outside cabinets.
- Drill 1/4″ drainage holes on cabinet bottoms so moisture can escape.
Check cabinet interiors occasionally for dampness or leaks. Remove standing water immediately to limit harm.
Elevate Off Wet Ground
Ground contact allows moisture to freely transfer into the cabinet:
- Install cabinets on pedestals/risers to provide several inches of clearance.
- Use concrete paver stones or blocks under cabinets to separate from soil.
- Position cabinet against exterior walls or porches to minimize ground contact.
- For walk-in sheds, build a wood pallet or frame platform as a moisture barrier.
Keep cabinets away from puddles, sprinklers, and areas of poor drainage. Check for standing water under cabinets after heavy rain.
Add Gutters Above Cabinets
Rain gutters divert water away from cabinets:
- Fit continuous gutters above cabinets to catch and redirect roof runoff.
- Use sufficient downspouts to prevent overflow. Space downspouts every 40-50 feet.
- Direct downspouts away from cabinets onto splash blocks. Keep gutters clean.
- For sheds, install gutters only on surrounding eaves near cabinets for protection.
Gutters prevent heavy water flow directly over cabinets. But avoid locating cabinets under downspouts where overflow occurs.
Provide Adequate Ventilation
Allowing air circulation inside cabinets reduces condensation buildup:
- Drill a series of 1-2″ holes on cabinet sides near tops/bottoms for cross-ventilation.
- Install vents along the roofline or eaves above cabinets when possible.
- Use moisture-resistant vents with screens to prevent pest entry.
- Place cabinets in areas with good airflow and avoid cramped spaces.
Ventilation allows humid air to escape so moisture cannot accumulate inside cabinets.
Use Sun Exposure Strategically
Strategic sun placement helps dry out cabinets:
- Put cabinets in sunny areas so the heat can evaporate moisture.
- Keep cabinets out of heavily shaded spots where drying is slower.
- Let cabinets receive at least 4-6 hours of sun daily if dampness is an issue.
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure on vulnerable finishes to prevent UV damage.
Sunshine helps eliminate condensation quickly after humid or wet conditions. But limit sun on susceptible surfaces.
Check Drainage Slope Around Cabinets
Proper drainage carries rainwater away from cabinets:
- Grade soil sloped away from cabinets at a 1% – 3% incline or more.
- Use gravel, mulch, or vegetation to prevent mud buildup near cabinets.
- Consider raising cabinets on a platform if the surrounding area retains water.
- Make sure downspouts and gutters divert water at least 3 feet from cabinets.
Check for puddles or soggy ground after heavy rain, and improve drainage as needed to keep cabinets dry.
Add a Roof or Lid
For additional protection, install a complete roof or lid:
- Freestanding roof structures with overhangs provide sheltered storage space.
- Waterproof fabric covers shed rain when secured tightly over cabinets.
- Hinged lids with latch allow easy access while keeping interior dry.
- Use moisture-resistant materials like metal, fiberglass, or treated canvas.
Total roof coverage guarantees cabinets stay dry. But condensation can still occur, so allow ventilation.
Maintain Good Seals
Preserve weather resistance by maintaining seals:
- Reapply protective coatings like paints/sealants as needed, about every 2-3 years.
- Check caulk annually and redo any cracked/missing sections to prevent leaks.
- Replace worn or loose weatherstripping to keep water out of cabinet interiors.
- Tighten any hardware securely to prevent openings for water intrusion.
Check cabinets regularly for cracks, gaps, or failing finishes requiring new seals to stop moisture entry.
Consider Storage Location
Selecting the right placement can help minimize wetness:
- Avoid low-lying areas that collect water. Higher elevation is better.
- Keep cabinets away from sprinkler coverage zones.
- North/east facing walls see less rain exposure than south/west.
- Areas under foliage have more moisture from drips and less sun exposure.
Carefully choose cabinet location based on environmental factors to prevent excess dampness.
Clean and Dry Regularly
Regular cleaning prevents damaging moisture buildup:
- Wipe down cabinet exteriors after wet weather to remove standing water.
- Absorb small interior leaks quickly with a towel. Wet-dry vacuum larger spills.
- Leave cabinet doors open on sunny days to air out interior and dry remnant dampness faster.
- Check under and around cabinets periodically for hidden moisture or leaks.
Frequent cleaning and drying minimizes chances for water damage and secondary issues like mold.
FAQs About Protecting Outdoor Cabinets
What is the most waterproof material for outdoor cabinets?
Marine-grade stainless steel provides maximum water resistance and won’t corrode in wet conditions. Fiberglass and plastic composites are also highly waterproof cabinet materials.
How do you waterproof a wood cabinet for outside use?
Use exterior wood glue to assemble the cabinet. Caulk joints and seams. Apply 2-3 coats of marine-grade spar varnish or external semi-gloss paint. Add weatherstripping to doors and keep the interior dry.
Should outdoor cabinets be covered?
Adding a roof or cabinet cover provides full protection from rain. But cabinets don’t necessarily need total coverage if properly constructed and sealed. Use overhangs above cabinets to divert most moisture instead.
How long do outdoor cabinets last?
With proper materials and regular maintenance, outdoor cabinets typically last 4-7 years on average. Higher-end cabinets built of durable materials and with added protection can last 10-15 years or longer.
What causes mold and mildew in outdoor cabinets?
Consistent moisture allows mold and mildew growth. Prevent it by keeping cabinet interiors dry, sealing any leaks, ventilating to reduce condensation, and limiting damp wood exposure. Clean up spills immediately before mold develops.
How do you keep plywood cabinets dry outside?
For plywood cabinets, apply water-sealant paints or varnishes. Caulk seams and use weatherstripping. Keep the interior dry by drilling cabinet-bottom drainage holes. Add an overhang for shelter and place in a sunny spot.
What can damage outdoor cabinets?
Moisture, standing water, humidity, and excess dampness cause most outdoor cabinet damage via swelling, disintegration, mold, and corrosion over time. UV exposure also degrades finishes. Pests like termites or carpenter ants may eat away at wood as well.
How often should you replace seals and finishes on outdoor cabinets?
Seals like caulk, paints, varnishes and wood sealants should be reapplied every 2-3 years on average. Check condition annually and redo any failing, cracked or worn sections prone to water intrusion.
Should you put sealant inside outdoor cabinets?
Sealants are not necessary inside cabinets if the interior is kept dry. Silicone caulk can be used sparingly on corners/joints to prevent moisture migration. But avoid coating the entire interior, as sealants may degrade contents or prevent wood drying.
Conclusion
Protecting outdoor cabinets from excessive moisture requires strategic material selection, overhangs, drainage, ventilation, and maintenance. Sensible placement also reduces exposure. Apply finishes like varnish and exterior-rated paint to create water-shedding barriers. Keep the cabinet interior dry by sealing any entry points for water like doors and joints. With careful construction and regular upkeep, outdoor cabinets can last for many years despite humid, wet conditions. Implement these tips to get the most life out of cabinets and keep stored items safe from moisture damage.