Outdoor cabinets provide a great way to add storage and organization to your patio, deck, or other outdoor living space. With so many options available, it can be tricky to know where to start when picking out outdoor cabinets. This guide covers everything you need to know to choose the perfect outdoor cabinets for your needs.
Determine Your Needs
The first step is identifying what you plan to store in your outdoor cabinets. This will help narrow down the size, style, and features you need. Consider the following:
Storage Needs
- Grill supplies like propane tanks, grilling tools, mitts, seasonings
- Gardening tools and gloves
- Pool/beach towels and accessories
- Outdoor dishware and glassware
- Cushions or pillows for outdoor furniture
- Firewood or kindling
- Sporting equipment like balls, frisbees, bats, etc.
Cabinet Location
- Deck or patio? Under an overhang or fully exposed?
- Near an outdoor kitchen or standing alone?
- Next to a grill or firepit?
Aesthetic Preferences
- Color/finish – natural, painted, stainless steel?
- Door style – doors, drawers, open shelves?
- Modern, rustic, industrial, or traditional look?
Choose a Material
Outdoor cabinets come in a variety of different materials, each with their own pros and cons.
Wood
Pros
- Natural look, available in many stains/finishes
- Can be painted any color
- Relatively affordable
Cons
- Requires more maintenance – sealing, staining, etc.
- Can warp or deteriorate over time when exposed to weather
Metal
Pros
- Very durable against outdoor elements
- Low maintenance
- Available painted or with stainless steel finish
Cons
- Can show dents/dings over time
- Can get hot in direct sunlight
Wicker/Rattan
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Water-resistant
- Natural outdoor look
Cons
- Not as sturdy or secure as wood/metal
- More prone to fading over time
Weather-Resistant Plastics
Pros
- Durable, won’t chip, peel, or crack
- Resists moisture and humidity
- Stainless steel options mimic metal look
Cons
- Plastic doesn’t have the same visual appeal for some
- Can become brittle in extreme cold
Measure Your Space
Once you know the general size of cabinet you need, take exact measurements of the installation spot. This ensures your new cabinet will fit the space properly. Measure:
- Width & depth of area cabinet will sit
- Height – from floor to bottom of roof/overhang
- Distance to nearest outlets or light fixtures
This will determine the maximum dimensions for your cabinet size. Allow a few extra inches clearance on each side. It’s easier to fill a slightly oversized cabinet than dealing with one that’s too cramped.
Assess Other Considerations
Factor in a few other things as you choose your outdoor cabinetry:
Weather Protection
Look for cabinets marketed as “outdoor” or “all-weather” that are designed to withstand moisture, humidity, sun exposure, etc. Key features include:
- Weather-resistant materials/finishes
- Water-tight door seals
- Ventilation holes for airflow
- Drain holes to prevent water pooling
- Hardware designed not to rust
Locking Mechanism
An outdoor cabinet should have a way to lock it securely. Look for:
- Locking doors handles
- Hasp and staple locks
- Combination or key locks
- Locking drawer slides
This keeps your contents protected.
Adjustable Shelving
Having shelving you can move around as needed makes it easy to customize the cabinet’s storage. Look for:
- Removable shelves
- Shelves that adjust to different heights
- Cabinet depths >=16″ to hold bulkier items
Lighting
Task lighting inside the cabinet or above it makes finding things easier when visibility is low. Options include:
- Battery powered push lights
- Motion-sensor lights
- Integrated LED strips/puck lights
- Hardwired interior lighting (need outlet access)
Choose Quality Hardware
Don’t skimp on the hardware like hinges, pulls, and locks. Look for:
- Hinges: Stainless steel or coated hinges resist rusting. Concealed hinges provide a seamless look.
- Pulls/Knobs: Go for durable materials like brushed nickel, stainless steel, or zinc. Recessed pulls keep a smooth facade.
- Locks: Seek locks made of rust-resistant metals. Keyed locks provide more security than combination locks.
Solid hardware ensures your cabinet functions properly for years of outdoor use.
Select Within Your Budget
Outdoor cabinets come in a wide range of prices. Setting a budget helps narrow the options.
Under $150: Basic wood or metal cabinets, smaller in size, minimal features.
$150-$300: Mid-range wood or metal cabinets with good weatherproofing.
$300-$800: High-end wood cabinets with premium finishes. Customizable systems.
$800+: Luxury metals like stainless steel and aluminum. Commercial-grade.
Look for sales or clearance options if sticking to a tight budget. Or save up for a higher quality cabinet built to last.
Order Assembly or DIY Install
Many outdoor cabinets ship ready to assemble. This saves on shipping costs. If you aren’t handy, seek cabinets that come pre-assembled or offer assembly services.
If installing yourself:
- Review instructions before starting
- Have all tools/hardware needed
- Clear the installation area
- Work on a flat, level surface
- Get help lifting heavy cabinets
Take care to assemble the cabinet properly for optimal weather protection and performance.
Weatherproofing Tips
Proper placement and weatherproofing helps your outdoor cabinets last.
Location
- Place under roof overhangs or covered areas when possible
- Face cabinet away from prevailing winds/rain
- Allow space between cabinet and walls for airflow
Sealants
- Caulk around base of cabinet to seal it to surface
- Seal any cracks and unfinished surfaces
- Stain/seal wood cabinets annually
Climate Protection
- Keep cabinets covered in extreme weather
- Store cushions/fabric items inside during winter
- Remove liquids if below freezing
With proper care, your outdoor cabinets can stay looking great and last for many years.
Style Ideas
Consider these popular outdoor cabinet style ideas:
Simple Wood Storage Boxes
- Perfect for decks or patios
- Offer storage while doubling as extra seating
- Great for storing cushions, blankets, and more
Rustic Wood Cabinets
- Barnwood finishes complement rustic homes
- Glass-front doors showcase contents
- Use for firewood storage or pool accessories
Sleek Metal Lockers
- Brushed steel matches modern decor
- Magnetic or latch doors for clean look
- Great for grilling tools next to the barbecue
Concrete Cylinders
- Unique modern design
- Rotating design accesses contents
- Often used as ice/beverage stations
Repurposed Furniture
- Vintage kitchen cabinets work perfectly
- Old drawers give charming appeal
- Fun way to upcycle found items
Under-Stair Storage
- Use wasted space under deck steps
- Install drawer under each step
- Perfect for odds and ends, frees up other storage
Get creative and have fun designing unique outdoor cabinetry suited to your space!
Safety Tips
When installing and using outdoor cabinets, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Use heavy duty mounting hardware on wall-mounted cabinets
- Ensure cabinets are level and secured properly
- Keep flammable liquids/materials stored properly
- Use child safety locks to prevent kids accessing dangerous items
- Lock cabinets when not in use to prevent theft
- Check for signs of damage from weather/pests/wear periodically
- Repair issues immediately to prevent safety hazards
- Follow all manufacturer instructions carefully
Placing cabinets thoughtfully and taking proper safety precautions will keep your outdoor living space secure.
Maintenance
While outdoor cabinets are built to withstand the elements, some periodic care will maximize their lifespan.
Cleaning
- Wipe down exterior surfaces with mild soap and water
- Use all-purpose cleaners for interior (avoid heavy chemicals)
- Rinse well and dry completely
- Check/clean door seals and hinges
- Touch up paint as needed
Sealing
- Re-stain or seal wood cabinets every 1-2 years
- Use exterior finishes like polyurethane
- Replace seals around doors if any leakage
- Re-caulk base if gaps appear
Storage Tips
- Bring cushions and fabric items indoors during bad weather
- Keep interior dry by leaving door ajar on sunny days
- Use moisture-absorbing packs during humid season
- Avoid over-filling beyond recommended weight capacity
With proper cleaning and sealing, your outdoor cabinets can stay looking their best for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most weatherproof material for outdoor cabinets?
Metal and high-density plastic tend to be the most weather resistant options. Look for powder-coated steel, stainless steel, or rigid plastic marketed as outdoor-safe.
How deep should outdoor cabinets be?
The depth you need depends on what you intend to store. For larger items like patio plates and cushions, look for cabinet depths of 16-18+ inches. Standard depths of 12-15 inches work for general storage.
What should I look for in hinges?
Seeking hinges designed for outdoor use is critical – they resist rust and corrosion better than indoor hinges. Stainless steel hinges are ideal for cabinets exposed to the elements.
Should I caulk around my outdoor cabinet?
Yes, caulking around the base of an outdoor cabinet helps seal it to the floor surface you install it on. This prevents moisture ingress that can cause damage over time. Use a high-quality outdoor caulking.
How often should I apply sealant to wood cabinets?
Most manufacturers recommend re-applying exterior sealant or stain to wood cabinets about every 1-2 years. This protects the finish from damage caused by moisture and sun exposure.
Can I convert an old armoire into an outdoor cabinet?
While possible, an old armoire that isn’t specifically designed for outdoor use likely won’t hold up as well. You can try weatherproofing it with sealants and covers. But investing in cabinetry made specifically for outdoor use is best for long-term durability.
Final Thoughts
The right outdoor cabinet adds both form and function to your patio or deck. Take stock of your needs and style preferences. Seek cabinets made of weather-resistant materials like wood, metal, or rigid plastic. Look for quality hardware and weatherproofing features. Proper placement, sealing, cleaning and storage habits keep your new cabinet looking great.
With some smart shopping, you can find the perfect outdoor cabinet for your budget and decor. Organize your grill supplies, patio accessories, gardening tools and more so everything is at your fingertips – all while adding a stylish storage accent to your outdoor oasis.