Building your own outdoor TV cabinet allows you to create functional storage while protecting your TV from the elements. With some basic DIY skills and the right materials, you can build a customized outdoor TV stand that suits your space. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to build an outdoor TV cabinet yourself.
Choose a Location with Overhead Protection
When deciding where to place your outdoor TV, opt for a covered space like a patio, pergola, or covered porch. This protects your TV from rain and provides shade from direct sunlight which can damage the screen.
Consider how the location impacts viewing angles. Mount the TV so it can be seen from seating areas or while cooking at the grill. Also take into account glare from sunlight so the picture is clearly visible any time of day.
Select Appropriate Materials
Building an outdoor TV cabinet requires weather-resistant materials that can withstand moisture, humidity, and temperature fluctuations.
The best choices include:
- Marine grade plywood – Use at least 3/4″ thick plywood rated for outdoor use. The plies are sealed together with waterproof glues.
- Aluminum – A rust-proof metal that holds up well outdoors. Opt for heavy duty aluminum framing.
- Stainless steel hardware – Choose stainless steel screws, bolts, and fasteners. They resist corrosion better than other metals.
- Exterior wood glue – Waterproof wood glue bonds plywood pieces together tightly so moisture cannot seep in between the layers.
- Weather resistant paint or stain – Seal all wood surfaces with exterior grade finishes to prevent moisture damage, mold, and mildew.
Design the Cabinet Frame
Start by planning out the size of the full cabinet frame using your measurements:
- Measure the width and height of your TV screen. Leave at least 2″ of clearance around the edges of the TV. This gives room to access ports and buttons on the back and sides.
- Decide on the overall height, width, and depth for the cabinet. Standard depths are between 15″ to 24″. Allow enough depth for your TV mount hardware.
- Design the layout of shelving, cabinets, and drawers if desired. Be sure to leave room for ventilation around electronic components.
- Draw up plans viewing the cabinet from all sides. Include exact measurements for cutting.
Cut Pieces from Plywood
Use a circular saw with a fine-toothed blade to cut your plywood pieces to size based on your plans. Wear safety goggles, ear protection, and a dust mask when cutting.
Cut pieces for:
- Top and bottom panels
- Side, back, and front panels
- Shelves
- Door frames
- Drawers
- Any trim pieces
Mark cut lines carefully and cut slowly for smooth edges. Sand cut edges to remove splinters or rough spots.
Join the Cabinet Box
Assemble the main cabinet structure first before adding shelves, doors, and drawers.
- Apply exterior wood glue to the edges of the side panels. Clamp the top and bottom panels between the sides.
- Add the back panel last. Use fasteners like stainless steel screws every 8-12 inches to reinforce the glue joints.
- Let the glue cure fully before unclamping according to the glue instructions.
- Sand any dried glue squeeze-out. Wipe the cabinet box clean.
Install Shelving
Cut shelves from plywood, leaving a 1/4″ gap between shelves and cabinet sides for ventilation.
Attach shelves using exterior screws or brackets. Space shelves based on the items you want to store, leaving the bottom shelf open for the TV.
Add a ventilation hole pattern to the back panel if electronic components will be stored inside. Use a drill or jigsaw to create the holes.
Add Doors and Drawers
Follow these steps to install hinged cabinet doors:
- Cut door pieces to size from plywood. Brace with crosspieces for stability if needed.
- Attach weatherstrip foam around the door edges to seal against the frame when closed.
- Mount adjustable hinges using exterior screws. Test the doors open and close smoothly.
- Add handles or pulls for easy access.
For drawers:
- Assemble drawer boxes from plywood using glue and nails. Install drawer slides.
- Use exterior grade wood glides on the bottom edges so drawers slide smoothly.
- Attach drawer fronts using screws. Align fronts evenly with cabinet edges.
Apply Protective Finish
Sealing the wood properly is crucial for weather resistance.
- Sand all surfaces smooth with 150 grit sandpaper. Vacuum dust.
- Apply 2-3 coats of exterior grade primer, sanding lightly between coats.
- Finish with 2-3 topcoats of exterior grade paint, stain, or sealer. Allow full drying time between coats.
- Caulk any gaps or joints with exterior silicone caulk. Smooth the caulk with a wet finger.
Reapply the finish every 1-2 years to maintain protection.
Mount the TV
Install a wall mount bracket for outdoor TVs following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Position it at a comfortable viewing angle. Use the proper hardware like lag bolts to anchor it into wall studs.
Carefully mount the TV onto the bracket arm and lock it in place. Run cords through openings in the back panel.
Add Finishing Touches
Consider additional features to complete your outdoor TV stand:
- Lighting – Install LED strip lights to illuminate the interior of the cabinet at night. Use a dimmer switch for adjustability.
- Speakers – Mount weatherproof outdoor speakers and route speaker wires through the cabinet. Hide the receiver inside.
- Ventilation – Add a quiet ventilation fan if needed to keep components cool.
- Remote holder – Mount a magnetic strip or holder inside to keep the remote easy to find.
- Cable management – Use cord clips and channels to neatly run cables from the TV to devices inside the cabinet.
With an outdoor TV cabinet you built yourself, you can relax outdoors watching movies, sports, and shows, protected from the elements. Customize your DIY cabinet to suit your space and storage needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Building Outdoor TV Cabinets
What is the ideal height to mount an outdoor TV?
The ideal mounting height depends on your viewing distance. As a general guideline, mount the center of the TV screen around eye level when seated. For standing viewers, place the bottom of the screen about 4-5 feet above the floor.
What kind of wood should be used?
Marine grade plywood is best since it resists moisture and rotting. Cedar and redwood also perform well outdoors. Avoid low quality plywood or particle board which can swell and deteriorate.
Do I need to waterproof the back of the cabinet?
Yes, it’s important to apply water-resistant finish to the entire cabinet, including the back and bottom. This seals the wood from moisture damage. Leave ventilation gaps for air circulation.
What should I use to join wood pieces together?
For outdoor projects, use weatherproof exterior wood glue when joining plywood edges. Reinforce with corrosion resistant screws rated for outdoor use.
How do I keep the TV screen from overheating?
Proper ventilation is key. Leave open gaps around the TV edges inside the cabinet so airflow can circulate. Install ventilation holes or fans to allow hot air to escape.
How can I protect the TV from rain or sprinklers?
Install the TV in a covered area like under an eave or pergola. You can build an overhang above the TV spot to deflect water. Use outdoor rated TV covers when not in use.
What is the benefit of building it myself vs. buying a pre-fab stand?
DIY cabinets let you fully customize the size, storage options, and look to fit your space. Pre-fab stands offer quicker installation but limit you to standard sizes and configurations.
Should I insulate an outdoor TV cabinet?
Insulation helps moderate temperature swings inside the cabinet which can damage electronics. Use faced insulation boards on the back and sides. Seal seams with exterior caulk.
How do I mount the TV bracket to the cabinet?
Most TV wall mounts have a standard VESA mount pattern on the back. Install a mounting board aligned with the studs. Attach the wall mount bracket to the board to safely hold the TV.
What kind of sealant should I use on an outdoor cabinet?
For weatherproofing wood, use a high quality exterior grade caulk. Look for caulk formulated for sealing windows, doors, siding, and trim. Siliconized acrylic or polyurethane caulks work well.
Final Thoughts
Constructing an outdoor TV cabinet allows you to build custom storage and protect your TV from weather damage. Use dense, weather-resistant materials and finishes suited for outdoor exposure. Mount the TV securely under an overhang and allow for ample ventilation. With proper planning, you can DIY an outdoor TV stand that looks great and lasts for years in any climate.