Building outdoor wood cabinets can be a fun and rewarding project for any DIYer. With the right materials, tools, and techniques, you can create stylish and functional storage for your patio, deck, or yard. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to build outdoor wood cabinets using instructions from YouTube.
Introduction
Outdoor wood cabinets are a great way to add storage and organization to your outdoor living space. They provide a place to stow away grilling tools, gardening supplies, pool floats, and more. Built properly, outdoor wood cabinets can withstand exposure to the elements while still looking good.
When planning your outdoor wood cabinet project, consider the location and purpose. Will it be used for grilling supplies by the BBQ? For pool toys and floats? For gardening tools by the shed? Determine the size, style, and features needed for your intended use. Gather ideas by browsing outdoor wood cabinet tutorials on YouTube.
Materials Needed
Before starting your build, acquire the necessary materials. Basic materials for an outdoor wood cabinet include:
- Plywood or boards: Use moisture-resistant plywood or cedar boards for the cabinet box. Opt for 3/4″ thickness for durability.
- Trim boards: Choose pressure-treated pine boards for the face frame and door trims. 1x3s and 1x2s are common sizes.
- Hardware: Galvanized screws, corner braces, shelf pins, cabinet door hinges, and a latch or magnet catch.
- Paint/stain/sealer: Exterior-grade paint, stain, or sealer to protect the wood from moisture damage.
- Tools: Saw, drill, tape measure, level, sand paper, clamps, and safety equipment.
Cutting the Cabinet Box Pieces
With your materials purchased, use a circular saw or table saw to cut the plywood into pieces for the cabinet box per the desired size. Typically you will need panels for:
- Top and bottom
- Sides
- Middle dividing shelf
- Back panel
- Door front
Follow along with the YouTube tutorial measurements for cutting the pieces accurately. Take your time to measure twice and cut once for best results.
Joining the Cabinet Box
There are a few methods for joining the cabinet box pieces together such as:
Pocket holes: Use a pocket hole jig to drill angled holes. Apply wood glue and drive pocket hole screws to assemble the pieces.
Butt joints: Cut pieces to overlap at 90 degree corners. Attach with exterior wood screws from the outside.
Dado joints: Cut grooves in the sides to slot the shelves into place. Glue and screw.
Rabbet joints: Cut rabbets (like a notch) in the back edges of the side pieces for the back panel to fit into.
Follow the specific outdoor cabinet YouTube tutorial you’re referencing for which joinery method to use. Apply wood glue at all joints for added strength. Clamp pieces together while screws are driven in. Check for square.
Adding the Face Frame
The face frame consists of trim boards around the front of the cabinet box to conceal the edges of the plywood. Cut 1x3s or 1x2s to size and attach to the front edges with exterior screws. Having a face frame gives the cabinet a more finished, furniture-like look.
Make sure the frame is square by measuring the diagonals before screwing it in place. Install any corner braces for extra reinforcement.
Hanging Cabinet Doors
There are several door styles to choose from for an outdoor wood cabinet such as:
- Slab door – A flat, solid plywood door. Simplest option.
- Frame & panel – Plywood panel bordered by a trim frame. Looks more elegant.
- Louvered – Angled slats with spacing to allow airflow. Great for a grill station cabinet.
- Chicken wire – Wire mesh infill for ventilation and visibility. Ideal for pool float storage.
- Glass – Glass panes framed with trim. Provides visibility inside the cabinet.
Install door hinges (exterior-rated) as directed in the YouTube guide you’re following. Typically 3 hinges for a standard sized door spaced evenly along the side. Test fit the door and make any adjustments needed to the hinges or cabinet frame to get proper alignment and clearance. Add a latch.
Adding Interior Storage
To make the most of the cabinet’s storage potential, add interior fittings such as:
- Shelves pinned in place on shelf pins
- Drawers for storing smaller items
- Pegboard for hanging tools
- Dividers or slots for organizing contents
- Hooks, bins, or trays for specialized items
Install these optional interior fittings according to the plans you’re referencing or to suit your unique storage needs.
Applying Protective Finish
The final step is to apply an exterior grade protective finish to the wood to guard against weathering and moisture damage over time.
- Paint: Use high quality exterior primer and paint for full coverage.
- Stain: Allows some wood grain to show. Apply exterior spar urethane over oil-based stains.
- Clear sealer: Clear water sealer leaves natural wood color intact. Reapply annually.
Apply finish per manufacturer instructions. Allow proper dry time before installing completed cabinet outdoors.
Extra Tips
- Use treated wood or marine-grade plywood for maximum moisture resistance.
- Raise cabinet off ground with legs or cement blocks to prevent rotting.
- Install cabinet undercover if possible for longer lifespan.
- Caulk around trims to prevent water intrusion.
- Check finishes annually and reapply as needed.
Conclusion
Building your own outdoor wood storage cabinet is a satisfying weekend project for any DIYer. Follow along with a well-made YouTube tutorial on outdoor cabinet construction. Gather the necessary supplies and use proper joinery and finishing methods for a long-lasting piece. Install interior storage fittings to maximize usefulness. Apply an exterior-grade finish to protect from the elements. Position your new outdoor cabinet in the perfect spot to enjoy for years to come.