Outdoor garden cabinets provide a stylish and functional storage solution for yards, patios, and other outdoor living spaces. With so many options to choose from, you can find garden cabinets to suit any style or storage need. Discover everything you need to know about selecting and installing outdoor garden cabinets for your home.
What Are Outdoor Garden Cabinets?
Outdoor garden cabinets are freestanding storage units designed specifically for use outside. Built using weather-resistant materials, they stand up to sun, rain, snow, and humidity without deteriorating. Garden cabinets come in a range of styles to match different exterior designs and provide customized storage options.
Unlike indoor cabinets, outdoor versions feature rust-resistant hardware, water-repellent finishes, and durable construction to withstand the elements. Many include ventilation to prevent moisture buildup inside. Outdoor-rated composite woods, along with metals like aluminum and stainless steel, are common materials.
These versatile storage units allow keeping essentials neatly organized and close at hand on the patio, deck, or yard. Their functionality and good looks make garden cabinets a popular choice for enhancing outdoor living areas.
Benefits of Installing Outdoor Garden Cabinets
Outdoor garden cabinets offer many advantages for creating an organized, stylish, and functional outdoor living space:
- Convenient storage – Keep grilling tools, gardening supplies, cushions, and other items tidy and easily accessible outside.
- Stylish accent – Available in numerous colors, materials, and designs to complement your exterior décor.
- Protection from weather – Made of durable, weather-resistant materials to prevent damage from exposure to the elements.
- Secure storage – Many feature locking doors to keep contents safe and prevent theft.
- Easy access – Position garden cabinets where you need storage the most for quick everyday use.
- Low maintenance – Require little upkeep other than occasionally cleaning with soap and water.
- Flexible placement – Freestanding design allows positioning in different garden beds, patios, decks, or yard areas.
- Adds value – Attractive outdoor storage boosts a home’s curb appeal and can increase resale value.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Outdoor Garden Cabinets
Several factors come into play when selecting the best outdoor cabinets for your home and needs:
Location
Consider the cabinet location and measure the space to ensure proper fit. Check for level ground if freestanding or solid wall support for mounted units. Determine how much foot traffic the area receives.
Size
Choose the right cabinet size based on what you need to store. Anticipate future needs as well as immediate ones. Larger storage units accommodate more but may overwhelm a small space.
Material
Outdoor cabinet materials like wood, metal, fiberglass, and composites each have pros and cons. Compare durability, weather resistance, cost, weight, and aesthetics.
Construction
Look for sturdy cabinet construction including rust-resistant hardware, weather stripping, and ventilation. Robust framing and thick panels endure better outdoors.
Style
Select a style harmonious with your home’s architecture and outdoor décor. Contemporary to rustic designs allow coordinating garden cabinets with different aesthetics.
Color
Neutral, earthy, or bold—the color palette offers versatile options. Factor in existing color schemes, ease of matching, and whether the cabinet will be painted.
Specific Storage Needs
Opt for specialized features like interior shelving, cabinets, hooks, and racks to accommodate specific storage requirements.
Budget
Outdoor storage cabinets range widely in price. Determine how much you can invest and expect to pay more for larger premium materials and construction.
Popular Types of Outdoor Garden Cabinets
Wooden Garden Cabinets
- Traditional style, warm and natural look
- Rot-resistant woods like cedar and redwood recommended
- Require staining/sealing for weather protection
- Ventilation helps prevent mildew
Metal & Aluminum Garden Cabinets
- Lasting corrosion and rust resistance
- Lighter weight than wood
- Can dent; prone to condensation without ventilation
- Often cost less than wood
Resin & Plastic Garden Cabinets
- Low maintenance, no staining required
- Molded construction resists splitting
- Insulated options help regulate interior temps
- Can fade over time from sun exposure
Wicker & Rattan Garden Cabinets
- Decorative natural basket-weave look
- Resilient but not impervious to weathering
- Prone to mildew in damp climates
- Typically used in covered outdoor areas
Concrete & Stone Garden Cabinets
- Extremely durable and weatherproof
- Can be stained or painted
- Substantial weight requires sturdy base
- Natural stone provides upscale look
Ideal Places To Install Outdoor Garden Cabinets
Patio
Garden cabinets stationed on the patio keep outdoor dining supplies, cushions, towels, and toys organized yet conveniently accessible.
Deck
Cabinets on the deck offer handy storage for barbecuing essentials, pool items, gardening tools, and more.
Backyard
Freestanding waterproof cabinets in the backyard provide enclosed storage safe from the elements.
Balcony
Apartment balconies and condo patios can benefit from the organized storage smaller cabinets provide.
Pool Area
Near the pool, cabinets allow stashing floats, toys, towels, and chemicals within arm’s reach.
Courtyard
Positioned in a courtyard, garden cabinets store firewood, gardening accessories, or anything needed in close range.
Front Porch
On the porch, cabinets keep seasonal items like cushions in summer and snow gear in winter neatly stowed but handy.
Garage
Garage-positioned cabinets offer supplementary storage of lawn care supplies, automotive accessories, and other equipment.
Tips for Installing Outdoor Garden Cabinets
Proper installation ensures your outdoor cabinets remain securely in place and weather-resistant:
- Check for level ground or wall if mounting before installing.
- Use corrosion-resistant hardware suitable for outdoor conditions.
- Allow space between cabinet and wall for ventilation to minimize condensation.
- Seal any gaps with caulk where the cabinet meets the wall or floor.
- Consider installing cabinet on cinder blocks or wood platform to prevent moisture damage.
- Follow manufacturer’s weight load limits if using cabinet as a work surface.
- Situate cabinet away from sprinklers and garden hoses to keep the interior dry.
- Keep combustible materials away from cabinet if positioned near outdoor fireplace.
- Avoid placing directly under roof overhangs and window sills where rainwater drips.
- Check interior ventilation and drainage if cabinet has a flat top that can collect standing water.
Maintaining Your Outdoor Garden Cabinets
A few maintenance practices will keep your outdoor cabinets looking like new:
- Wipe down regularly with mild soap and water to remove dirt and debris.
- Check for signs of weathering at least twice a year and touch up paint or sealant when needed.
- Inspect interior for any leaks, cracks, or damage that require repair.
- Clear cabinet ventilation holes of any obstructions, dust, or nesting insects.
- Use rust inhibitor aerosol on metal hardware if signs of corrosion appear.
- Check door alignment and hinges annually, adjusting or lubricating as needed.
- Move freestanding cabinets onto blocks or pallets during wet months if prone to moisture damage.
- Remove cushions, textiles, or paper goods over winter months if cabinet isn’t fully weatherproof.
- Reseal wooden cabinets every 1-2 years to protect the wood from moisture and UV damage.
Enhancing Your Outdoor Living Space With Garden Cabinets
Outdoor garden cabinets lend beauty, versatility, and functionality wherever installed. Utilitarian or decorative, large or small, they provide enclosed storage not possible with open shelving. Strategic placement in high traffic areas makes stowing and retrieving porch, patio, deck, or yard essentials much more convenient.
Durable outdoor-rated construction ensures garden cabinets withstand all types of weather while keeping contents protected. Their versatility allows customizing with interior organization systems, shelves, racks, and hardware to accommodate specific needs. With the range of stylish designs available, it’s easy to coordinate cabinets with existing architecture and outdoor spaces. Just avoid treating them as an afterthought—garden cabinet placement merits careful planning to maximize their usefulness and aesthetics. With the right outdoor cabinet additions, you can take your patio, deck, or yard from simply ordinary to a well-organized and enjoyable outdoor living space.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Garden Cabinets
What are the most weather resistant materials for outdoor cabinets?
Metal, high-density polyethylene plastics, reinforced concrete composites, and naturally rot-resistant woods like cedar and redwood have the best weather resistance for outdoor cabinet construction.
How deep should an outdoor garden cabinet be?
The depth depends on what you intend to store. 12-16 inches deep accommodates most general outdoor gear. Go deeper if storing larger items like gardening tools or shallower for pool towels and table linens.
What design styles are best for small outdoor spaces?
For small patios or balconies, choose compact, slim cabinets with minimal ornamentation. Neutral colors help the cabinet recede visually. Avoid towering cabinets that overwhelm the available footprint.
Should I choose freestanding or wall-mounted cabinets?
Freestanding cabinets work anywhere outdoors and don’t require mounting. Wall cabinets maximize storage without taking up floor space. Consider location, footprint, weight capacity, and if you can anchor safely.
How do I deter insects from nesting in my outdoor cabinets?
Ensure cabinets include ventilation holes large enough for airflow but too small for entry. Avoid food residues, stagnant water, or gaps that attract pests. Use insect repellent disks during bug season.
What kind of maintenance do outdoor cabinets need?
Clean regularly with mild detergent, check for weathering, reseal wood cabinets seasonally, inspect for leaks or damage, adjust doors that become misaligned, and keep ventilation holes clear of debris.
Should I mount cabinets on elevated stands if the ground isn’t level?
Yes, small adjustable stands can level freestanding cabinets on uneven ground and prevent moisture damage to the base.
How can I make DIY concrete outdoor cabinets?
Building simple concrete block cabinets is very doable. Use concrete bonding agent between blocks, anchor to slab or wall, waterproof inside, and paint/seal exterior. Add doors as desired.
Are plastic resin cabinets durable enough for the outdoors?
Quality polyethylene plastic resins resist weathering for years. Look for reinforced panels at least 5mm thick, durable hinges, and fully sealed seams. Avoid flimsy big box store versions.
How do I keep the interior of outdoor cabinets from getting wet?
Ventilation, weatherstripping, sealing gaps, and overhang placement all help keep cabinet interiors dry. Check drain holes so moisture doesn’t pool. Remove contents if very damp.
Conclusion
Outdoor garden cabinets make an excellent addition to any patio, deck, or backyard. The wide selection ensures finding just the right freestanding or wall-mounted cabinets to suit your exterior design needs, storage requirements, and budget. Proper placement paired with weather-resistant construction enables garden cabinets to offer durable, secure, and low maintenance storage. A few easy maintenance practices will keep your outdoor cabinets looking like new for years of stylish functionality improving your outdoor living space.