When it comes to choosing materials for outdoor cabinets, homeowners and contractors have several options to consider. Two of the most popular choices are high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and wood materials such as cedar and redwood. There are pros and cons to each material that are important to weigh when deciding what type of material to use for your outdoor cabinets.
An Overview of HDPE for Outdoor Cabinets
HDPE is a lightweight and durable plastic that is commonly used for a variety of outdoor applications. Here are some of the benefits HDPE provides for outdoor cabinetry:
Durability
One of the biggest advantages of HDPE is its durability. HDPE is resistant to many common causes of damage and degradation from outdoor exposure:
- Weather resistance – HDPE is not damaged by exposure to sunlight, rain, snow, or temperature swings. It won’t warp, crack, or deteriorate when left outside in all weather conditions.
- Fade resistance – HDPE resists fading and discoloration better than many plastics. Its color will remain true even after years outdoors.
- Dent/scratch resistance – HDPE has a smooth surface that resists dents and scratches from regular outdoor use. Minor scratches can be buffed out easily as well.
- Rustproof – Unlike wood and metal, HDPE cannot rust or corrode.
Low Maintenance
Another benefit of HDPE is that it requires very little maintenance compared to other materials:
- HDPE does not need to be stained, sealed, or painted like wood cabinets.
- It never needs repainting or refinishing to maintain its appearance.
- Simple soap and water cleaning is all that is needed to keep HDPE cabinets looking like new.
Customization
HDPE can be fabricated in a wide range of custom colors, sizes, and styles. It’s easy to get HDPE cabinets made to your exact specifications.
Affordability
HDPE is one of the more affordable options for premium outdoor cabinetry. It’s usually comparable in price to high-end woods or composites but will outlast most of those materials.
Lightweight
HDPE is lighter than wood or metal. This makes HDPE cabinets easier to transport and install.
Downsides of HDPE for Outdoor Cabinets
Despite its many strengths, HDPE isn’t necessarily the best choice in every situation. Here are some potential downsides to consider:
Heat Sensitivity
One shortcoming of HDPE is that it can become pliable and lose its rigidity in extremely hot conditions. In very hot climates or applications where cabinets will be exposed to direct sunlight for long periods, the material may warp or sag over time.
Appearance
The appearance of HDPE is smooth and uniform, lacking the natural grain patterns and variations of real wood. Some homeowners find the look of HDPE to be too artificial or “plastic-like” for their taste.
Difficult Repairs
While HDPE resists dents and scratches very well, when damage does occur it can be difficult to fix. Scrapes and gouges require cutting out and replacing whole sections rather than simple touch up repairs.
Limited Color Range
There are fewer color/finish options for HDPE compared to real wood cabinets or some composites. The range of colors and tones available can make it tricky to match existing color schemes.
Static Build Up
Static electricity can build up on HDPE much more than other materials. This can attract more dust and require additional cleaning. Touching the cabinet can result in minor static shocks as well.
How HDPE Compares to Wood for Outdoor Cabinets
Wood is one of the most classic and attractive choices for outdoor cabinetry. Within the broad category of wood, there are premium options like cedar and redwood that are naturally resistant to outdoor conditions. How does HDPE compare?
Durability
- HDPE advantages: More dent, scratch, and fade resistant. Won’t split, crack, warp or rot from moisture.
- Wood advantages: Naturally resistant varieties can still last 20+ years with proper maintenance. Easier to spot treat damage vs. replacing whole HDPE sections.
Appearance
- HDPE advantages: Consistent, uniform look. Available in wide range of color options.
- Wood advantages: Natural beauty and variation of real wood grain. Ability to stain/finish allows more customization.
Maintenance
- HDPE advantages: Requires very little maintenance beyond occasional cleaning.
- Wood advantages: With proper prep and sealing, can go years between refinishing. Ability to spot treat or re-stain damaged areas.
Cost
- HDPE advantages: Comparable or lower cost than premium wood species.
- Wood advantages: Lower grades with less outdoor durability may be slightly cheaper upfront.
Installation
- HDPE advantages: Lighter weight than wood makes installation easier.
- Wood advantages: Easier to work with standard woodworking tools for modifications.
Key Factors to Consider for Your Outdoor Cabinet Material
When deciding between HDPE vs. wood for your specific needs, here are some important factors to weigh:
Climate Conditions
What is the typical weather like in your region? Are summers extremely hot? Is outdoor humidity high? Wood holds up best in more mild and dry conditions. HDPE resists humidity and heat better than most woods.
Hours of Direct Sunlight
Will the cabinets be in full sun or partial shade? HDPE withstands UV rays well, but full sun can cause heat-related warping. Wood requires shading from intense direct sunlight.
Desired Lifespan
Do you want cabinets that will last 5-10 years or 20+ years? With proper maintenance, wood or HDPE can achieve long lifespans. But HDPE requires less maintenance for maximum lifespan.
Color/Finish Needs
HDPE has less color variety than wood that can be stained, but HDPE colors won’t fade over time. Consider which material offers suitable color/finish options for your needs.
Budget
HDPE is generally on par with premium wood options. Lower grade woods may be slightly cheaper upfront but won’t have the same durability.
Ease of Installation
HDPE’s lighter weight makes DIY installation easier. But wood is simpler for on-site modifications.
Best Practices for Maximizing Durability
To get the longest possible lifespan out of outdoor cabinets, follow these tips:
Overhangs/Awnings
Provide shade from direct sunlight and rainfall dripping onto the cabinets with rooflines, awnings, or adjacent structures. This protects both wood and plastic from intense UV exposure and excessive moisture.
Raised Bases
Elevate cabinets off the ground with a raised base or foundation to prevent standing moisture and splashback. Make sure there is adequate drainage under and around cabinets.
Weatherproofing
Use exterior-rated, waterproof adhesives and hardware. Seal seams and edges. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for prep and installation.
Climate-Specific Prep
In wet climates, seal the bottom edges and backs. In hot climates, choose light colors and ventilate to allow airflow. In cold climates, avoid trapping standing water in cabinet frames.
Regular Maintenance
For wood, apply fresh sealant regularly. For HDPE, periodically wash and inspect for damage. Address any issues promptly to prevent bigger problems down the road.
HDPE vs Alternative Plastic/Synthetic Materials
HDPE is far from the only plastic or synthetic material option on the market. How does it stack up against other plastics for outdoor cabinetry?
PVC
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is another inexpensive, waterproof plastic used for some cheaper or DIY style outdoor cabinets. Compared to PVC, HDPE is more resistant to UV damage, won’t warp or discolor as readily in sunlight, and has a higher-end aesthetic.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate sheets are used to manufacture some semi-transparent outdoor storage units. Polycarbonate is lighter and more flexible but less scratch resistant than HDPE. It also tends to discolor faster from UV exposure.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass has good durability and is sometimes used for mold-formed cabinet bodies. But fiberglass can become brittle and crack over time. HDPE maintains its flexible strength longer. Fiberglass also requires more caution when cutting and drilling during installation.
Acrylic
Acrylic sheets are commonly used for full transparent outdoor cabinets. But acrylic is easy to scratch and crack. It also becomes brittle and yellows with age. HDPE is the superior choice for long lasting colored cabinets.
Recycled Plastics
Some companies make outdoor cabinets from recycled milk jugs or detergent bottles. The durability and quality varies. In general recycled plastics are less rigid and consistent than HDPE, with more chance of warping or deterioration.
Conclusion
For most homeowners, HDPE represents an excellent combination of durability, appearance, and affordability for outdoor cabinetry. It resists weathering, rot, and pests very well.
Compared to wood, HDPE requires less maintenance while offering similar or lower costs. Wood still provides a classic look when properly maintained, but fails sooner than HDPE in harsh conditions.
HDPE also compares favorably to other plastics and synthetics like PVC, polycarbonate, and acrylic in terms of its all-around resistance to outdoor elements.
Taking extra steps like providing shade, ventilation, drainage, and routine upkeep will maximize the lifespan of any outdoor cabinet materials. But starting with a inherently durable and resilient material like HDPE is recommended to minimize headaches down the road.
For attractive, long lasting, low maintenance outdoor storage, HDPE is hard to beat. Just be sure to match the material’s strengths to your specific climate and site conditions. With proper installation and care, HDPE cabinets will provide many years of outstanding performance outside the home.