Stainless steel outdoor cabinets are a popular choice for outdoor kitchens, storage, and entertainment spaces. When properly maintained, stainless steel offers unparalleled durability and weather-resistance compared to other cabinet materials like wood, laminate, or painted steel.
However, stainless steel cabinets also come at a higher initial investment than other options. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss the factors that influence the cost of stainless steel outdoor cabinets so you can determine if they are the right choice for your outdoor project and budget.
What Influences The Cost of Stainless Steel Outdoor Cabinets
Several key factors impact the overall price of stainless steel outdoor cabinets:
Grade of Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is available in different grades that denote the quality, strength, and corrosion resistance. Higher grades are more durable and retain their shiny silver luster longer when exposed to the elements. However, they also come with a higher price tag.
Most stainless steel outdoor cabinets are constructed using grades 304 or 316 stainless steel:
- 304 stainless is the most affordable and commonly used grade. It offers good corrosion resistance for most outdoor environments.
- 316 stainless offers improved resistance to chlorides and salt exposure. It’s generally recommended for coastal areas but comes at a 15-20% premium over 304 stainless.
Gauge
The gauge indicates the thickness of the stainless steel used. Like grades, thicker gauge materials are more durable but also more costly.
Typical gauges for outdoor stainless steel cabinets are:
- 20 gauge – Offers a good balance of strength and affordability but dents more easily. Best for low-traffic outdoor kitchen areas.
- 18 gauge – More dent-resistant for high-traffic areas while still reasonably affordable. Typically used for doors, larger cabinets, and cabinet frames.
- 16 gauge – Heavier and more dent/impact-resistant. Used for cabinet doors in busy outdoor kitchens or bars. Adds 15-20% to the cost over 18 gauge.
- 14 gauge – The thickest and most durable option but also pricier. Ideal for extreme climates or applications with heavy usage. Adds approximately 30% over 16 gauge.
Construction
How the cabinets are constructed also influences cost:
- Modular pre-fabricated cabinets are the most affordable. They come in standard sizes and configurations for easy DIY installation.
- Semi-custom cabinets offer more flexibility in sizes and layouts. They are pre-fabricated but can be adapted onsite if needed. Pricing is moderate.
- Fully custom cabinets are hand-built to your specifications and allow for maximum customization. However, they are the most expensive due to high material and labor costs.
Size
Not surprisingly, the larger and more cabinets required, the greater the overall cost. Large base cabinets, tall pantry cabinets, and additional specialty storage options like drawer banks, trash pull-outs, etc will increase the price over a basic starter set of wall cabinets. Consider how much storage you really need when budgeting.
Features & Accessories
Upgrades like glass cabinet doors, soft-close hinges and slides, interior lighting, locks, pull-out shelves, and other specialty hardware will drive up costs. But they may be worthwhile if you’ll use and enjoy the features.
Brand
Higher-end brands like Viking, Lynx, Brown Jordan, and Cal Flame offer thicker gauges, commercial-grade features, and tighter quality control standards in their construction. However, their cabinets cost significantly more than entry-level import brands.
Location & Shipping
If you don’t live near a retailer, shipping large stainless cabinets can become expensive. Factor this into your budget or look for free shipping deals.
Installation
DIY installation will be most affordable but can be challenging. Professional installation by the retailer or a local contractor adds convenience but also cost.
Typical Cost Ranges
With all of those factors in mind, here are some typical price ranges for stainless steel outdoor cabinets based on common configurations:
- Prefab modular cabinets in 20 gauge 304 stainless with few frills run $1,500 – $4,000 for a basic L-shaped outdoor kitchen setup.
- Semi-custom cabinets in 18 gauge 304 stainless with some upgrades like soft-close hinges and glass doors average $5,000 – $8,000 for an L-shaped configuration.
- Fully custom cabinets in 16 or 14 gauge 316 stainless with high-end features can cost $8,000 – $15,000+ depending on the size and amount of cabinets.
Of course, costs in your area may vary based on retailer margins, labor rates, and other factors. The prices above are rough averages to give you a ballpark idea for budgeting purposes.
Now let’s take a more detailed look at how the different factors influence cost…
Stainless Steel Grades & Your Budget
Choosing between 304 and 316 stainless is one of the first decisions that will impact your budget. Here are some tips:
When to Choose 304 Stainless
Grade 304 stainless offers good corrosion resistance at the lowest cost. It’s a great choice when:
- You’re on a tighter budget
- Your climate is milder – no extreme humidity or constant saltwater exposure
- Appearance isn’t critical – some corrosion pitting will eventually occur
To maximize affordability, select entry-level cabinets made overseas in 20 gauge 304 stainless. Check that welds are clean and edges are smoothed to avoid premature corrosion.
With proper care, 304 stainless cabinets can still last 10 years or longer in many areas before corrosion becomes a problem.
When to Upgrade to 316 Stainless
For just 15-20% more, 316 stainless provides substantially better pitting and corrosion resistance. It’s worth upgrading to 316 stainless when:
- Your cabinets will be exposed to salty coastal moisture regularly
- You want to virtually eliminate corrosion concerns for 15-20+ years
- Keeping appearances pristine over time is important
The small upcharge for 316 stainless can pay off in the long run if it helps your cabinets retain their original luster and avoids the need for extensive refinishing or replacement in under 10 years.
Choosing the Right Gauge for Durability & Cost
The gauge of stainless steel used plays a critical role in durability. Here are tips on choosing the optimal balance of affordability and dent/impact resistance:
When to Use 20 Gauge
20 gauge stainless keeps costs down while providing adequate robustness for:
- Protection from light impacts – it won’t dent when bumped into occasionally
- Low traffic areas away from high activity
- Climates with mild weather year-round
Avoid 20 gauge if kids or heavy usage will be common to avoid dents. Also skip it in extreme climates – thinner metal will show distortion over time.
When to Upgrade to 18 Gauge
18 gauge stainless offers notably better dent resistance and rigidity while still keeping costs reasonable. It’s ideal when:
- Cabinets will see moderate traffic and usage
- You expect some accidental bumps but not frequent heavy impacts
- Your climate includes extreme cold, heat, or wind
- You prefer a sturdier feel and appearance
The moderate upcharge for 18 gauge is worthwhile for the added peace of mind and lifespan compared to 20 gauge.
When to Use Heavy 16 or 14 Gauge
Commercial-grade 16 or 14 gauge stainless prevents almost all dents while providing maximum structural rigidity. It’s overkill unless:
- Your cabinets will see extremely heavy usage
- They’ll be installed in an area with constant extreme weather shifts
- Appearance must remain pristine despite inevitable bumps and scrapes over time
- Budget is not a concern and you want the ultimate in durability
For most residential settings, 16 or 14 gauge is unnecessary. But it might be justified for an outdoor kitchen or bar that will see near-constant use.
Cabinet Construction Comparison
The manufacturing method used to construct the cabinets also impacts the cost:
Prefab Modular Cabinets
Pros:
- Most affordable option
- Available in convenient standard sizes
- Quick DIY installation
Cons:
- Limited customization
- Prone to sagging over time unless reinforced
Semi-Custom Cabinets
Pros:
- Moderate pricing
- Custom sizing with onsite modifications
- More durable construction
Cons:
- Still some limits on layouts
- Professional installation often required
Full Custom Cabinets
Pros:
- Fully customized fit, features, and layout
- Extremely durable and robust construction
- Prestigious higher-end brands
Cons:
- Very expensive, especially for larger kitchens
- Long lead times for manufacturing
- Complex professional installation required
For most homeowners, semi-custom cabinets provide the best balance between customization, cost, and ease of installation. But modular works well for simple DIY projects on a tight budget.
Factors That Increase Your Total Cost
Several other factors can quickly inflate the total investment in your outdoor stainless steel cabinetry:
The Sheer Number of Cabinets
It’s easy to get carried away dreaming up everything you could include in your outdoor kitchen or entertaining space. More cabinets mean more storage but also more cost.
Create a budget and prioritize the cabinetry and features that are must-haves vs nice-to-haves. Don’t overdesign for an elaborate kitchen that gets minimal use.
Larger Sizes
In particular, large pantry cabinets, tall cabinets, and oversized base cabinets cost proportionally more than compact wall cabinets. Measure carefully and substitute multiple smaller cabinets if possible.
Specialty Storage Features
While very convenient, options like pull-out pantries, drawer banks, trash/recycling rollouts, paper towel holders, and appliance garages come at a premium. Limit these options to keep costs down, especially with lower gauge steel.
Upscale Hardware & Accessories
Upgrades like soft-close doors/drawers, interior lighting, glass cabinet inserts, warming drawers/shelves, and stainless cabinet tops also bump up costs quickly. Decide which high-end features are must-haves versus nice extras.
Shipping Expenses
Don’t underestimate shipping costs for large, heavy cabinets if you don’t live near the retailer. Factor this into your budget or look for free shipping promotions.
Professional Installation
DIY installation can save thousands compared to hiring a contractor. But if DIY is daunting for you, an experienced installer may be worth the investment to ensure cabinets are properly leveled, secured, sealed, and configured.
Cost Saving Tips & Alternatives
If your budget is limited, here are some tips to cut costs on your stainless cabinetry:
- Start with just a few cabinets now and expand over time
- Use modular cabinets and DIY the install to minimize labor
- Choose 304 grade over 316 unless you absolutely need the extra corrosion resistance
- Use 20 or 18 gauge steel instead of heavy 16 or 14 gauge
- Skip custom and semi-custom designs in favor of prefab modular sizes
- Limit specialty features, accessories, and upgrades
- Compare shipping costs between retailers to find the best deals
- Take advantage of seasonal sales and clearance pricing
If stainless remains outside your price range, consider alternate materials like:
- Aluminum – More affordable, lighter than steel but still durable. Won’t stay pristine as long.
- Outdoor-Rated Wood – Requires sealing & maintenance but costs less upfront.
- Weather-Resistant Laminates – Most budget-friendly but lower lifespan. Annual sealing required.
Are Stainless Steel Outdoor Cabinets Worth the Investment?
At the end of the day, higher-quality stainless steel cabinetry represents a long-term investment in your outdoor living space.
The key is determining what balance of affordability and durability best fits your specific needs. Heavier gauges and grades of stainless steel offer superior performance and lifespan but naturally come at a higher initial price.
Here are the main benefits that can make stainless steel cabinets a worthwhile investment if they align with your goals:
Exceptional Durability
Properly constructed stainless steel cabinets will remain structurally sound and fully-functional for 15-20 years or longer. They are built to withstand full outdoor exposure year after year.
Ultimate Weather Resistance
Quality stainless steel offers unmatched resistance to moisture, humidity, salt air, extreme heat/cold shifts, wind, and sun exposure over decades. It will outlast almost any other cabinet material.
Minimal Maintenance
Aside from occasionally re-sealing joints and connections, stainless steel requires little maintenance. You’ll avoid the cracking, rotting, peeling, warping, and sealing required for other cabinetry.
Pristine, Consistent Appearance
Stainless steel retains its clean, attractive appearance far longer than most cabinet materials before showing any visible wear. It avoids sun-fading and damage over decades of use.
** Adds Value to Your Property**
Outdoor stainless steel kitchens and cabinetry maintain their value and become an attractive feature for future buyers. They signal permanent infrastructure rather than a temporary setup.
If those benefits are worthwhile to you, investing in quality stainless steel cabinets that fit your budget is likely to provide lasting enjoyment and value for your home and lifestyle.
Questions to Ask Before Buying Stainless Outdoor Cabinets
Before making your purchase, ask yourself these key questions:
How much outdoor entertaining/cooking do you plan to do?
If you’ll use your outdoor kitchen daily in summer and on weekends, higher-end stainless makes more sense than if you only plan occasional light use.
What is the climate and environment like?
Consider humidity, extreme temperatures, wind, and salt/chloride exposure that your cabinets must withstand when choosing grades and gauges.
How many years do you expect them to last?
Higher grades and thicker gauges provide longer lifespans. Make sure to select cabinets durable enough to meet your expected longevity.
How important is dent/impact resistance?
If kids or heavy usage are likely, upgrade to 16 or even 14 gauge steel to prevent dents and deformation over time.
What’s your budget for this project?
Keep the grades, gauges, sizes and features aligned with what you can comfortably afford without overspending.
What design support does the company offer?
Look for a retailer that provides design recommendations and quotes for your unique project if you need help customizing.
How experienced are you with installation?
Factor in costs of professional installation if you aren’t comfortable tackling a large DIY install for stainless cabinets.
How soon do you need the cabinets?
Custom and semi-custom designs have longer lead times. Modular pre-fab offers the quickest turnaround.
Do you need accessories like cabinet tops?
Account for expenses of cabinet tops, sinks, fixtures, covers, and integration hardware if purchasing.
Bottom Line
Stainless steel outdoor cabinets offer unmatched durability and weather-resistance for your investment. But they also come at a higher upfront cost than many alternate options.
Carefully weigh your specific needs, budget, and goals. Then work with a knowledgeable retailer to select the optimal balance of grades, gauges, sizes, and features to meet your needs at a price you feel comfortable with.
With some forethought and smart compromises, stainless steel outdoor cabinets can provide a beautiful, functional, and durable outdoor living space you’ll enjoy for decades to come.
Conclusion
When selecting stainless steel outdoor cabinets, understand how the grade, gauge, construction, and features impact pricing. Consider your budget, usage, climate exposure, and desired longevity. Taking the time to make informed decisions will help ensure your investment in stainless cabinetry will pay dividends through years of frequent use and enjoyment. With proper care and maintenance, you can expect high-quality stainless cabinets to provide a beautiful and durable outdoor living space for your family for decades to come.