How to Buy Outdoor Cabinets - Outdoor Cabinets

Buying outdoor cabinets can seem overwhelming with so many options to choose from. But with some basic knowledge, you can easily find the perfect outdoor cabinets for your needs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process step-by-step.

Introduction

Outdoor cabinets are a great way to add storage and organization to any outdoor space. They can be used for storing grilling supplies, gardening tools, pool accessories, and much more. When shopping for outdoor cabinets, there are several key factors to consider:

Types of Outdoor Cabinets

There are three main types of outdoor cabinets:

Metal: Most commonly made of stainless steel or aluminum. Very durable but can get hot in direct sunlight.
Wood: Usually made of weather-resistant woods like teak or cedar. Require more maintenance but have a classic look.
Plastic: Affordable but less durable option. Usually made of polyethylene. Withstand weather but can fade over time.

Size and Dimensions

Consider the size of items you want to store. Measure the area where the cabinet will go. Standard cabinet widths are 18”, 24”, 30” but custom sizes are available. Height and depth also vary.

Doors and Hardware

Look for cabinets with full-length piano hinges for added stability. Magnetic catches keep doors firmly closed. Keyed locks will add security.

Construction and Build Materials

Seek cabinets made of thick, high-quality materials that can withstand weathering. Look for powder-coated steel, stainless steel hardware, and reinforced corners.

Ventilation and Drainage

Proper airflow and drainage will extend the life of outdoor cabinets. Look for cabinets with ventilation holes and elevated floors.

Style and Finish

Consider cabinets that match your home’s style. Look for neutral colors or finishes that coordinate with outdoor décor.

How to Choose the Right Outdoor Cabinets

Follow these tips to select the ideal outdoor cabinets for your space:

Step 1: Assess Your Storage Needs

What will be stored in the cabinets? Grilling tools? Pool floats? Gardening supplies?
How much storage space do you need? Measure items to determine ideal cabinet size.
Will you need shelves, hooks, drawers or other interior organizers?

Step 2: Measure Your Space

Note the size and shape of the area where cabinets will be installed.
Measure to ensure the cabinets will fit into the allotted space.
Consider existing architectural features like walls, corners, overhangs.

Step 3: Choose Placement

Determine if cabinets will be freestanding or built-in.
For built-in, place against a wall or between structural features.
Freestanding cabinets can go anywhere but allow for repositioning.

Step 4: Select Material

Consider your climate. Metal and wood have pros and cons.
Choose powder-coated steel, aluminum or stainless steel for durability.
Teak and cedar are weather-resistant wood options.
Plastic is affordable but susceptible to sun damage over time.

Step 5: Pick Size and Style

Opt for standard cabinet widths (18”, 24”, 30”) or customize size.
Determine needed height and depth based on items being stored.
Match style to your home’s design: contemporary, classic, rustic, etc.

Step 6: Choose Special Features

Look for cabinets with ventilation holes, drainage, and elevated floors.
Seek heavy-duty hardware: hinges, catches, locks.
Add interior organizers: shelves, racks, hooks, drawers.
Include lighting for visibility: battery-operated or hardwired.

Where to Buy Outdoor Cabinets

There are many options for purchasing quality outdoor cabinets:

Big box stores: Home Depot, Lowe’s and Walmart carry affordable stock models. Limited sizes.
Hardware stores: Ace Hardware and True Value have mid-range models in common sizes.
Specialty retailers: Stores like Patios & Beyond offer high-end custom designs.
Online: Wayfair and Overstock have a huge selection with discounted prices.
Cabinet specialty stores: Cabinet dealers have many custom and stock cabinet choices.
Classified ads: Check Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace for used cabinets.

How Much do Outdoor Cabinets Cost?

Outdoor cabinet pricing depends on:

Materials: Plastic is cheapest. Wood and steel cost more. Stainless steel is premium.
Size: Larger cabinets cost more. Standard widths start around $100. Larger cabinets can be $500+.
Features: Ventilation, drainage, locks, lighting add cost. Basic cabinets start under $200.
Construction: Thicker metals and woods are pricier but more durable.
Brand: Leading brands like Suncast and Keter cost more than generic cabinets.
Customization: Unique sizes, materials and features raise the price.

What to Look for When Buying Used Outdoor Cabinets

Buying used can save money, but inspect carefully:

Check for signs of weathering like fading, cracks, peeling surfaces.
Open and close doors and drawers to ensure proper functioning.
Examine hinges and hardware for corrosion or damage.
Check for pests like insects or rodents. Look for chew marks or nesting.
Ensure cabinets are structurally sound. No major dents, broken pieces or holes.
Odors like mildew are problematic. May require extensive cleaning or resealing.
Measure cabinets to confirm listed dimensions match your needs.
Look for water damage or stains which can indicate leaks.

DIY vs Professional Installation of Outdoor Cabinets

You can install outdoor cabinets yourself or hire a professional:

DIY Pros:

Less expensive option. Save on installation costs.
Flexibility in placement. Easily make adjustments.
Learn a new hands-on skill by doing it yourself.

DIY Cons:

Requires tools you may not have like a power drill.
Leveling and securing cabinets properly can be tricky.
Built-in cabinets require expertise in carpentry.

Professional Pros:

Experts can properly measure, level, and anchor cabinets.
Built-in cabinets will be carved and installed correctly.
Professionals have right tools and skills to do the job efficiently.

Professional Cons:

Added expense for installation fees.
Wait for installer’s availability to schedule the work.
Less flexibility in placement.

Outdoor Cabinet Installation Guide

Follow this DIY guide to install your outdoor cabinets properly:

Gather Supplies

Power drill and drill bits
Level
Anchors appropriate for mounting surface
Fasteners: screws or bolts
Tape measure
Stud finder
Protective equipment: goggles, gloves

Choose Installation Site

Consider ease of access, weather protection, and aesthetics.
Ensure the floor is level and surface is structurally sound.
Built-ins require solid backing like wall studs or concrete.
Freestanding cabinets need a flat, stable base.

Prepare and Level Cabinet

Remove doors and drawers during installation.
Check that corners and tops are square.
Use shims under cabinet if floor is uneven.
Level the cabinet both vertically and horizontally.

Drill Holes for Anchors

Mark stud locations for built-ins or pre-drill holes for anchors.
Hole size and depth must match the anchor specifications.
Wear goggles when drilling overhead.

Secure the Cabinet

Attach built-in cabinets to studs with long screws.
Use appropriate anchors and fasteners for the mounting surface.
Do not overtighten screws into plastic cabinets.
Follow any specific hardware instructions.

Seal and Finish Cabinet

Caulk around built-ins to seal any gaps.
Touch up paint on drilled holes if needed.
Replace doors, drawers, and shelving.
Weatherproof with sealants to prevent water damage.

Outdoor Cabinet Safety Tips

Follow these precautions to safely enjoy your outdoor cabinets for years:

Mount wall cabinets at a height where children cannot reach.
Anchor freestanding cabinets to prevent tipping.
Install child safety locks on doors and drawers if needed.
Keep flammable liquids in metal cabinets away from ignition sources.
Check for sharp edges and pad with corner protectors if needed.
Close lids and doors when not in use to limit moisture damage.
Use cabinet contents soon after opening to prevent spoilage or pests.
Frequently clear out fallen leaves or other debris around cabinets.
Check for signs of damage after major storms.
Wipe up spills quickly to prevent wood swelling or mold.
Keep combustibles away from hot grills right below wall cabinets.
Follow all assembly instructions carefully. Do not overload shelves.

Maintaining and Caring for Outdoor Cabinets

Routine maintenance keeps outdoor cabinets looking their best:

Annually re-seal cabinets with outdoor waterproofing products.
Touch-up paint any chips or scratches to prevent corrosion and rot.
Keep wood cabinets free of mildew and mold with bleach solution.
Use stainless steel cleaner and polish on metal cabinets as needed.
Lubricate door hinges and locks with WD40® or triflow oil when stiff.
Weatherstrip doors if gaps appear and replace worn gaskets as needed.
Keep drainage holes unclogged and clear debris from door tracks.
Check for signs of pests and treat humanely with traps or natural repellents.
Avoid using harsh abrasives or scouring pads which can damage finishes.
Consider covers or indoor storage during extreme weather.

With proper installation, care and maintenance, quality outdoor cabinets can last for many years while housing your grilling, pool, patio or gardening gear conveniently outdoors. Investing in sturdy, weather-resistant outdoor cabinets from trusted brands is worth the money for the years of use you will gain. Follow this guide to choose the right style, size and features to meet your unique storage needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Outdoor Cabinets

How to buy outdoor cabinets?

When buying outdoor cabinets, first assess your storage needs and space, then measure to determine the right size. Choose a durable material like powder-coated steel, aluminum or weather-resistant wood. Look for heavy-duty hardware and water-resistant features. Purchase from stores, online retailers or cabinet specialists.

What material is best for outdoor cabinets?

The most durable outdoor cabinet materials are stainless steel, powder-coated steel, aluminum and weather-resistant woods like teak and cedar. Plastic is affordable but can deteriorate over time when exposed to sun and rain.

Do outdoor cabinets need to be sealed?

Sealing outdoor cabinets with waterproofing products will extend their life. Apply sealants when installing, then reapply annually or as needed to protect from moisture damage. Silicone and polyurethane are common sealants.

How deep should outdoor cabinets be?

The ideal depth depends on your storage needs. Standard depths are usually 12″, 16” or 24″. Deeper 24″ cabinets fit larger items. Optimal depth also depends on cabinet height and width. Lowe wider cabinets usually need more depth for stability.

What is the most weather resistant outdoor cabinet material?

Stainless steel is the most weather resistant option for outdoor cabinets. It won’t rust, peel or corrode. Next best are powder-coated steel, anodized aluminum, and marine grade woods like teak. Plastic is more susceptible to sun damage over time.

How much weight can outdoor cabinets hold?

Most quality outdoor cabinets can safely hold 20-50 lbs per shelf. Wall mounted cabinets typically hold less than freestanding. Look for cabinets reinforced with aluminum or steel frames and thick shelving if heavy objects will be stored. Always check weight capacity before loading.

Should outdoor cabinets be raised off the ground?

Yes, elevating outdoor cabinets a few inches off the ground improves airflow and drainage to prevent moisture damage. Place shims or blocks under the cabinet corners when installing. Anchoring the cabinet prevents tipping.

What is the most expensive outdoor cabinet material?

Stainless steel is generally the most expensive outdoor cabinet material given its high corrosion resistance and durability. Teak wood is also pricey due to its natural weather resistance and beautiful finish. Polyethylene plastic is the most budget-friendly material.

What companies make the best outdoor cabinets?

Top outdoor cabinet brands include Suncast, Keter, Rubbermaid, Campania Outdoor, Costway, Rev-A-Shelf, Deckmate, and Three Posts. Look for cabinets made with quality materials, reinforced corners, and durable finishes.

How to build your own outdoor cabinet?

Building your own outdoor cabinet starts with choosing plans and materials. Use moisture-resistant wood, plywood, plastic or aluminum. Cut pieces with a circular saw. Drill shelf pin holes. Assemble cabinet box with waterproof wood glue and fasteners. Add doors, hinges, handles and shelf supports. Paint or stain for weather protection. Add sealant before installing outdoors.

And that covers the essential information you need to know when shopping for and installing outdoor storage cabinets! Let me know if you have any other questions.