How to Get Custom Metal Cabinets - Outdoor Cabinets

Getting custom metal cabinets installed in your home or office can transform the look and utility of the space. With custom cabinets, you can get exactly the size, shape, color and configuration you want to perfectly suit your needs. However, ordering and installing custom cabinets requires more time, expertise and expense than buying pre-made stock cabinets. Follow this guide to learn everything you need to know about getting high-quality custom metal cabinets.

Determine Your Needs

Before beginning the process of acquiring custom metal cabinets, take time to determine exactly what you need.

Consider the Following:

What rooms will the cabinets be installed in? Make a list of all the areas you want to include new cabinetry so you can get accurate measurements.
How will the cabinets be used? Think about what you will need to store and access. For example, cabinets in a garage will have different requirements than those in a kitchen.
What is the available space? Take detailed measurements of the installation areas so you can design cabinets to maximize the storage capability.
What size cabinets do you need? Consider both width and height. Standard kitchen cabinets are 24 inches deep and 34-36 inches high.
How many cabinets will you need? Take into account all of the items you want to store. More cabinets provide greater organization but will cost more.
What configuration do you want? Determine the optimal layout like number of doors, drawers, shelves, etc.
What style cabinets do you prefer? There are many options like shaker, modern, traditional, etc.
What material and color scheme? Metal cabinets come in various finishes like stainless steel, galvanized, powder coated, etc.
What type of hardware? Choose knobs, pulls, hinges and other hardware to match your style.
What kind of countertops? Your cabinet supplier can coordinate countertop materials and installation.
What is your budget? Custom metal cabinets are more expensive than stock cabinets. Determine how much you can spend.

Thoroughly planning your custom cabinet needs will ensure the finished product fulfills your storage, style and functionality requirements.

Select a Reputable Cabinet Supplier

Once you determine your needs, research cabinet suppliers. Look for an experienced company that specializes in custom metal cabinetry.

Here are important factors to consider:

Services offered – do they design, manufacture and install custom cabinets? Ideally you want to work with one company throughout the process.
Types of cabinets – confirm they work with high-quality metal cabinets in a variety of styles and configurations.
Experience level – choose a supplier that has many years of experience with custom cabinet projects. Ask for referrals from past clients.
Design expertise – look for a supplier that provides 3D design renderings to preview the finished cabinets.
Quality craftsmanship – be sure they follow rigorous standards and use durable materials that will last.
Project management – the supplier should oversee the entire process and coordinate all trades.
Installation services – full-service suppliers have their own installation teams to ensure proper fit and function.
Range of services – many suppliers also offer countertops, sinks, lighting, flooring and other kitchen and bath upgrades.
Pricing options – get an estimate for the cost of your custom cabinetry including all associated fees.

Take the time to thoroughly research cabinet suppliers. A reputable company with expertise in custom metal cabinets will seamlessly guide you through the design and installation process.

Start the Design Process

Work closely with your cabinet supplier’s design team to create your ideal custom cabinet layout.

Key steps in the design phase include:

Initial consultation – discuss your needs, style preferences, budget and project timeline. Provide room dimensions and your vision for the finished look.
Measurements – the design team will get detailed measurements of the full installation area. For kitchen cabinets, this includes the floor plan and all ceiling heights, windows, doors and lighting elements.
Floor plan – you will be provided with a basic floor plan showing the room layout. This is where you can start mapping out cabinet configurations.
3D renderings – work with the designers to create digital 3D models showing your cabinet designs. This allows you to visualize the finished project.
Material selection – choose the cabinet materials, colors, hardware and accents to match your vision. Metal cabinets can have various finishes like brushed stainless steel or antiqued copper.
Lighting plans – many cabinet installers can integrate lighting into the cabinets for maximum function and aesthetic appeal.
Countertop design – select countertop materials that complement your custom cabinetry. Granite, marble, quartz and wood are popular options.
Finalizing plans – work through multiple design drafts until the renderings match your perfect vision. The final designs can be quickly modified later if needed.

Invest time upfront in the design process. Meticulous 3D renderings ensure your finished custom cabinets match your personalized style.

Order Your Custom Metal Cabinets

Once you approve the 3D renderings from your cabinet designer, it’s time to officially order the custom cabinetry.

Be prepared with the following:

Finalized drawings – supply the designer with signed-off renderings of all cabinet elevations, needed parts and specifications.
Completed order forms – provide all selections for cabinet materials, colors, hardware, lighting, accessories, etc.
Project timeline – if working on a deadline, make the cabinet company aware of any time constraints. Most take 6-8 weeks for fabrication.
Contract – thoroughly review and understand the contract terms, then sign to formalize the order. This covers scope, specifications, price, installation, warranty, etc.
Deposit – custom cabinet orders typically require a 50% deposit at the time of order, with the balance due upon delivery and before installation.
Permits – find out if any permits are needed for the installation work. The cabinet company can usually pull all required permits.
Coordinating trades – make arrangements for countertop fabrication, electrical, plumbing, flooring and other related projects to coincide with cabinet delivery.

Carefully placing the order will get the manufacturing process started and ensure your new custom metal cabinets are delivered on schedule. Maintain frequent contact with your cabinet supplier throughout the fabrication and delivery timeframe.

Prepare for Cabinet Installation

Completing preparatory work before the installation day will allow the process to go smoothly.

To get ready for cabinet installation:

Clear the area – remove all existing cabinets along with any countertops, sinks, appliances and flooring materials that need to be replaced.
Clean surfaces – scrub the walls, floors and any existing structures to remove grease and debris so the new cabinets adhere properly.
Install reinforcements – cabinets may require additional brackets or sturdy backing on the walls they will mount on.
Make electrical and plumbing adjustments – arrangements need to be made for installing under-cabinet lighting, sinks, faucets and appliances.
Take time off work – expect installation to take multiple days, especially for larger kitchens or multiple rooms. Make sure to be home to answer any questions.
Prepare refreshments – it’s nice to have water, coffee and snacks available for the installation professionals. A comfortable work environment helps the project run efficiently.
Have a contingency plan – if existing issues are uncovered during installation, be prepared with a plan for addressing them promptly so the project is not delayed.

Adequately preparing for the installation ahead of time will get the job off to a smooth start and prevent unexpected delays.

Enjoy Your New Custom Metal Cabinets

Once installation is complete, it’s time to load your new custom cabinets, admire the finished look and optimize the storage capacity.

Here are tips for getting the most from your new custom metal cabinets:

Stock cabinets strategically – place frequently used items at convenient heights while maximizing hard-to-access space for specialty or seasonal items.
Add organizers – use drawer dividers, shelves, racks and other organizers to optimize the storage space.
Label storage areas – use labels so other household members can efficiently put items away.
Clean cabinets regularly – wipe down shelves and surfaces periodically to keep cabinets looking new. Use appropriate metal cleaners.
Add lighting – install task lighting inside cabinets or under them to improve visibility.
Childproof if needed – adhere cabinet safety locks and install safety brackets on heavy cabinets to prevent accidents.
Follow care instructions – certain metal finishes require special cleaners to prevent damage to the surface coating.

With proper organization and care, your custom metal cabinets can maintain their beauty and utility for decades, providing personalized storage and display space.

FAQ About Custom Metal Cabinets

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about acquiring custom metal cabinets:

How much do custom metal cabinets cost compared to stock cabinets?

Custom cabinets cost 50-100% more than stock cabinetry. The exact price depends on factors like materials, size, configuration and hardware options. Expect to pay at least $300 per linear foot for basic custom metal kitchen cabinets.

What are the lead times for getting custom metal cabinets?

On average, custom cabinet orders take 6-8 weeks from order date to delivery. More complex projects with multiple cabinet types can extend the fabrication time to 10-12 weeks. Rush orders are sometimes possible for an upcharge.

What custom cabinet materials are best for high-moisture areas?

Stainless steel, copper and powder coated steel are very durable and water-resistant metals suitable for bathrooms, laundry rooms and other wet areas. Avoid unprotected carbon steel that can rust over time.

Should I order cabinets before or after countertop installation?

It is best to have countertops installed after cabinet delivery so the counter slabs can be scribed and cut precisely to fit the new cabinetry. Ensure the installation is coordinated between trades.

What is the most durable finish for custom metal cabinets?

Powder coating is extremely durable and available in any color. It outperforms paint for scratch resistance and longevity. Other tough finishes include stainless steel, textured copper and brushed nickel.

How are custom metal cabinets attached to walls?

Professional installers use shims, heavy-duty ledger boards and brackets secured firmly to wall studs. Improper installation can lead to loose cabinets that detach from walls over time.

Can I get matching custom metal cabinetry for multiple rooms?

Yes, experienced cabinet makers can create coordinated custom cabinets for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, garages, basements and more using matching styles, materials and finishes.

Do cabinet suppliers also offer installation services?

Many custom cabinet showrooms have their own skilled installation teams. Others partner with reputable independent contractors to handle cabinet installations. Be sure to inquire about installation offerings.

Conclusion

Custom metal cabinets allow you to design your perfect storage solution tailored to your unique space and needs. By partnering with an experienced cabinet provider, obtaining 3D renderings of your design, overseeing professional installation and properly maintaining your new cabinets, you can enjoy customized function and style for many years. Take time to carefully plan so you wind up with durable and beautiful custom metal cabinetry.