Finding affordable yet durable outdoor cabinets can feel like a difficult task. With so many options on the market ranging drastically in price, it’s hard to know where to find quality outdoor cabinets at reasonable prices. This comprehensive guide will walk through everything you need to know to find budget-friendly outdoor cabinets that check all your boxes in terms of functionality, style, and pricing.
What to Look for When Buying Outdoor Cabinets
When evaluating outdoor cabinets, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:
Durability
Since outdoor cabinets will be exposed to the elements, durability is a top priority. Look for cabinets made from weather-resistant materials like powder coated steel, aluminum, synthetic wood composites, or stainless steel. Avoid cabinets made from low quality woods like particleboard which can easily warp or rot when exposed to moisture.
Weatherproofing
Outdoor cabinets should be weatherproofed to protect the contents inside. Look for cabinets with features like watertight seals, drainage holes, and sloped roofs. The doors should close tightly against weatherstripping to prevent rain, dirt, and pests from getting inside.
Security
Many outdoor cabinets come with locking mechanisms to keep the contents secure. Look for cabinets with secure latches, keyed locks, or combination locks if security is a concern.
Style
While durability comes first, you’ll also want to consider the aesthetics of the outdoor cabinet and make sure it fits in with your outdoor décor. Look for neutral colors or finishes that will blend in outside. Also consider the cabinet shape and hardware options to complement your space.
Size & Shelving
Consider what you intend to store in the cabinet and choose one with adequate interior dimensions and adjustable shelving to accommodate your needs. Measure the space available on your patio or deck and ensure the cabinet will fit.
By keeping these factors in mind while shopping, you’ll be able to identify durable and functional outdoor cabinets to suit your budget and needs.
Where to Find Reasonably Priced Outdoor Cabinets
Finding affordable outdoor cabinets involves knowing where to look. Here are some of the best places to buy budget-friendly outdoor cabinets without sacrificing quality:
Home Improvement Stores
Big box home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s offer a wide selection of outdoor cabinets at reasonable price points. Brands like Rubbermaid and Suncast have many heavy duty resin options under $200. You can also find stainless steel or powder coated steel cabinets for under $300. Home improvement stores frequently run sales and you can score great deals if you shop at the right times.
Online Retailers
Websites like Wayfair and Overstock have a huge selection of discounted outdoor cabinets across various materials and sizes. Look for free shipping or discounted pricing on large items. Online retailers allow you to easily compare different brands and prices.
Warehouse Clubs
Warehouse clubs like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s sell outdoor storage items, often at prices lower than other retailers. Their outdoor cabinet selection tends to be more limited, but you can find solid options for under $250. These warehouses sometimes run special sales on outdoor furniture and storage.
Restaurant Supply Stores
Restaurant supply stores are an underutilized resource for finding commercial-grade outdoor cabinets at reasonable costs. Brands like Metro, Eagle Group, and Advance Tabco manufacture sturdy stainless steel outdoor cabinets designed for restaurants that work perfectly for residential use. Prices range from $200-$500.
Secondhand
Check used listings on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and apps like OfferUp for quality used outdoor cabinets. Look for virtually new condition or gently used items from brands like Keter, Suncast, and Lifetime. Expect to pay 50-75% off retail price. Inspect carefully for damage prior to purchasing.
DIY
For the most budget-friendly option, build your own outdoor cabinet using weatherproof materials like cedar wood, treated lumber, or metal. Make a simple cabinet with a plywood box, doors, and watertight sealant. DIY is more labor intensive but allows you to customize the size and features.
Within these various retailers, keep an eye out for sales, coupons, clearance deals, and open box discounts to get the lowest prices on outdoor cabinets. Avoid settling for cheaply made cabinets that won’t withstand outdoor conditions. Focus your search on retailers likely to carry weather-resistant cabinets at reasonable price points.
Top Brands of Reasonably Priced Outdoor Cabinets
These leading outdoor cabinet brands offer quality construction, weatherproofing, and attractive designs at accessible price points under $500:
Keter
- Known for durable plastic resin cabinets with wood-like finishes
- Various size options all under $300
- Fade and rust resistant, waterproof, easy to assemble
- 10 year limited warranty
- Lowes, Home Depot, Wayfair
Suncast
- Leading maker of resin outdoor furniture and accessories
- Cabinets available in small, medium, large from $100-$400
- Durable polyresin won’t warp, dent, or rust
- Easy to maintain and clean
- Available at Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart
Lifetime
- Best for high capacity plastic storage cabinets
- Prices range from $120-$450
- Resistant to weather, fading, and cracking
- Lockable doors for security
- 10 year limited warranty
- Sold at Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart
Rubbermaid
- Known for rugged outdoor storage solutions
- Vertical storage sheds and horizontal cabinets
- Prices from $200-$500
- Durable resin or stainless steel options
- Lowes, Home Depot, Walmart
Costway
- Budget-friendly steel and wood cabinets
- Small and large options from $100-$300
- Powder coated steel frame resists rust
- Assembly required
- Available on Walmart, Overstock, eBay
While you can certainly find very cheap outdoor cabinets for under $100, they likely won’t last more than one or two seasons. Stick to reputable brands known for weather-resistant materials and construction. The small extra investment upfront will pay off in the long run with cabinets that will last for years outside.
Material Options for Affordable & Durable Outdoor Cabinets
Outdoor cabinets are constructed from a variety of different materials, all with their own pros and cons. Here is an overview of popular materials used for reasonably priced outdoor cabinets:
Polyresin
- Made from synthetic polymers mixed with resins
- Brands like Keter and Suncast use polyresin
- Resists moisture, warping, denting, and rust
- Requires very little maintenance
- Large variety of color and size options
- Prices range from $100 to $400
Powder Coated Steel
- Steel coated with a colored powder finish
- Resists chipping, peeling, corrosion
- More durable than painted steel
- Cooler finish than stainless steel
- Typically $200 to $500 range
- Often require assembly
Stainless Steel
- Very durable, rust and moisture resistant
- Easy to clean, modern appearance
- More expensive than powder coated steel
- Prices from $300 to $600
- Touch cooler than other materials
- Found at restaurant supply stores
Aluminum
- Lightweight yet very sturdy
- Resists rusting and cracking
- Sleek silver color
- Costs more than steel
- Expect to pay $400+
- Dents more easily than steel
Wood Composites
- Mix of wood particles and synthetic resins
- Brands like Trex use wood composites
- Resistant to moisture, rotting, cracking
- Requires sealing to prevent stains
- Prices range from $250 to $500
Prioritize weather resistance and durability over the material type when choosing an affordable outdoor cabinet. All of these materials can provide quality function at reasonable price points when manufactured properly.
Key Features to Look for in Budget-Friendly Outdoor Cabinets
While you’ll likely need to compromise on some features to keep costs down, there are certain aspects you shouldn’t skimp on when buying inexpensive outdoor cabinets:
Waterproofing
At minimum, doors should have a tight seal with weatherstripping and seams should be sealed. Drainage holes also help. Look for full waterproof designs if within budget.
Rust-Resistant Hardware
Hinges, handles, locks, and screws should be made from galvanized, stainless steel or zinc-plated materials. Avoid easily rusted hardware.
Locking Mechanism
A basic latch or padlock is sufficient for keeping contents secure. Keyed locks and combination locks provide further protection.
Modular & Adjustable Shelving
Having the ability to customize interior storage is useful. Look for removable shelves, racks, and tool holders.
Sloped Roof
A sloped roof with overhanging eaves helps prevent rain accumulation and moisture damage. Prioritize this if possible.
Durable Materials
Cabinets made from all-weather materials like powder coated steel, polyresin or composite wood will outlast other options. Don’t buy furnishings made with particleboard or low-quality wood.
Anchors/Mounting Kit
For any freestanding cabinet, having the option to bolt it down for added stability is recommended.
Although you can find outdoor cabinets without some of these features for under $100, it’s worth spending a little more to get weather-resistant construction that withstands the elements. Consider which features are essential to you and allocate more of your budget to those aspects.
Style Ideas for Budget Outdoor Cabinets
Just because you have a tight budget doesn’t mean you have to settle for an ugly metal box on your patio. Here are some stylish yet wallet-friendly outdoor cabinet ideas:
Opt for Neutral Colors
Neutral colored cabinets in shades of black, brown, tan, cream, and gray blend in with most color schemes. Subdued colors are also less likely to clash with future décor choices.
Add Beautiful Hardware
Updating standard knobs with decorative hardware, like black wrought iron pulls, can give inexpensive cabinets a high-end facelift.
Incorporate Natural Wood Accents
Look for cabinets with wood-look doors or composite shutters over the front to soften the visual appearance.
Choose a Complementary Design
Match the size, layout, and color of your cabinet to your existing outdoor furniture for a cohesive look.
Attach Creative Labels
Use vinyl cutouts or premade labels to add lettering identifying contents like “Gardening Supplies”.
Use Plants for Camouflage
Strategically place potted plants or trailing vines in front of your cabinet to help it blend into your outdoor landscape.
Add a Stain or Paint Finish
Staining, painting or adding a tinted transparent sealant allows you to match your cabinet to your color palette.
With a mix of practicality and personal flair, you can customize basic affordable cabinets to complement your space. Focus on functionality first then incorporate stylistic touches that reflect your personality and design aesthetic.
Where to Buy Outdoor Cabinets Reasonable: Bottom Line
Finding high quality outdoor cabinets at budget-friendly prices simply requires knowing where to look and what to look for. Focus your search on big box stores, online retailers, warehouse clubs, and secondhand marketplaces. Seek out durable brands known for weatherproof construction like Keter, Suncast, and Lifetime.
Prioritize weather-resistance, security, quality hardware, and adjustable shelving over aesthetic features. Powder coated steel, polyresin, aluminum, and composite wood provide the most bang for your buck. Include any essential waterproofing, locks, and hardware to get the most functional value from inexpensive outdoor cabinets.
With the right set of expectations and a willingness to research, you can outfit your patio with outdoor cabinets that check every box in terms of price, durability, security, and style. Protect your gardening tools, grill accessories, pool toys and more all year long with an affordable outdoor cabinet tailored to your space.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Cabinets (FAQs)
How much do outdoor storage cabinets cost?
Outdoor cabinets range in price from $50 on the very low end to $1,000+ for larger custom builds. Expect to spend $100 to $500 for a good quality outdoor cabinet from a trusted brand.
What is the most weatherproof outdoor cabinet?
Look for cabinets marketed as 100% waterproof or weatherproof, with sealed seams, water-tight doors with weather stripping, drainage holes, and sloped roofs. Stainless steel or polyresin cabinets tend to be very weather resistant.
How deep should an outdoor cabinet be?
The depth needed depends on the contents being stored. For general storage, 16 to 24 inches deep is common. For larger items like patio cushions, look for depths of 24 to 36 inches. Measure what you need to store before deciding.
What kind of wood is best for outdoor cabinets?
Marine grade plywood, cedar, cypress, and pressure treated pine are good wood options. Outdoor wood cabinets should be stained or sealed to protect from moisture damage. Durability will depend on wood grade and construction.
Should outdoor cabinets be raised off the ground?
Yes, it’s recommended to allow for drainage and airflow. Place freestanding cabinets on gravel or concrete pavers. Wall-mounted cabinets and plastic resin cabinet can sit directly on decking. Raising wood cabinets prevents rotting.
How are outdoor cabinets secured?
Freestanding cabinets can be bolted to the ground or wall for stability. Otherwise the weight of the cabinet and contents helps hold it in place. Place on a flat, level surface. Temporary methods like braces and anchors can also prevent tipping.
What is the most secure outdoor cabinet?
Look for pry-proof double walls, concealed hinges, and 3-point locking systems with pick-resistant tubular steel locks. Anchor to the ground or wall and store any valuables out of sight. Outdoor locks prevent casual intruders but are rarely completely theft-proof.
How much weight can an outdoor cabinet hold?
Look at the listed weight capacity which is typically 100 to 500 lbs for larger steel or resin cabinets. Weight limits refer to evenly distributed contents. Heavy objects like cinder blocks should sit on lower shelves to avoid stressing hinges and hardware.
Should I get a plastic or metal outdoor cabinet?
Both provide benefits. Powder coated steel is very strong and secure. Heavy duty resin like polyresin won’t rot, rust or warp. Go with metal for security or plastic for zero maintenance. Stainless steel combats rust but costs more.
What can I use instead of an outdoor cabinet?
Repurposed furniture like armoires, entertainment centers, or curio cabinets work well for covered storage. Waterproof deck boxes and plastic deck storage chests are very affordable options. Creative DIY alternatives include a wooden workbench with drawers or a converted kitchen cabinet. Consider your space, budget and needs when exploring options.