When furnishing the garage, people usually install old cabinets from the kitchen or the cheapest cabinets they can find. Although inexpensive cabinets are great for storing some items, they may not last very long due to the garage’s non-conditioned air and typical rough uses. For this reason and more, installing high-quality garage cabinets is highly recommended.
WHY SHOULD HOMEOWNERS AVOID LOW-END GARAGE CABINETS?
Since garage cabinets are exposed to heavy and wet items, they should be made of heavy-duty materials that can handle them. Cheaper cabinets made of thin materials will break much sooner and may require frequent replacements. It’s better to get cabinets with one-inch shelves, tops, and bottoms, and at least 3/4-inch sides, and be done with it, rather than worrying about them breaking.
Additionally, garage cabinets must have a thick backing because the backing supports most of the items stored. A wise investment is to buy cabinets with a 1/4-inch backing with nail supports.
Another reason inexpensive garage cabinets won’t work is that they tend to rip off the wall. These cabinets have to be strong and stay firmly on the wall so that they don’t fall and damage the garage contents. There are plenty of cabinets that can prevent such accidents. For example, many manufacturers use steel hardware and four-inch screws to handle a lot of weight and keep the cabinets securely nailed to the surface.
WHY AVOID REPURPOSING OLD KITCHEN CABINETS
Unless heated, garages in most parts of the United States are exposed to extreme temperatures. They are also susceptible to moisture, making them a hostile environment for kitchen cabinets.
Except for those specifically designed to endure harsh conditions, wood cabinets typically won’t last long in these conditions. They will degrade due to excess moisture, pest damage, and dry rot.
Moreover, wooden cabinets aren’t ideal for storing heavier garage items. Many models also have a set shelving height that can’t be modified.
Finally, consider the aesthetics of old kitchen cabinets. They are usually very natural and rustic-looking. Even with restaining or repainting, they likely won’t match the interior of the garage.
DON’T GO FOR PLASTIC EITHER
Plastic garage cabinets are by far the least durable. Even though they won’t rust like metal cabinets, the load capacity is entirely inadequate for the garage. Bulkier items, such as generators and compressors, will prove too heavy for these cabinets.
BUY WISELY
Overall, cabinets are crucial components of the garage. They can help save a lot of space, and the well-designed models will fit in with the rest of the area. Whatever the case, don’t buy the cheapest cabinets around as they only give the illusion of saving money. The lifespan is limited, and you’ll soon be forced to purchase and install replacement cabinets. For more information, talk to your garage cabinet specialist.
Quick Response Garage Cabinets provides excellent and secure storage solutions and epoxy flooring for Phoenix area residential garage needs. Call (480) 470-9213 or book an appointment online today!