Introduction
Building your own DIY garage cabinets can be a fun and rewarding project that allows you to customize your storage exactly how you'd like. With some basic carpentry skills and tools, you can design and install garage cabinets that fit your space perfectly at a fraction of the cost of buying pre-made cabinets.
This project overview will cover the complete process of constructing sturdy garage storage cabinets from scratch. We'll go over planning the layout, selecting materials, cutting and assembling the cabinet boxes, adding doors and drawers, applying finishes, installing the cabinets, and adding final trim details.
The required tools for this DIY garage cabinet project include a circular saw, drill, tape measure, level, screwdrivers, clamps, and basic safety gear like eye and ear protection. You'll also need wood materials like plywood, boards, trim, hinges, drawer slides, and cabinet hardware. In total, expect to spend $500-1000 in materials to build out a full set of cabinets, compared to $3000+ for custom ordered pre-fabs. With some handy skills and a weekend's worth of work, you can create high-quality cabinets tailored to your garage's dimensions.
Planning the Layout
The first step in building DIY garage cabinets is to measure your garage space and decide how you want to configure the cabinets. You'll need to determine the height, width, depth and number of cabinets that will work best for your needs and available space.
When measuring, make sure to account for garage door tracks, water heaters, electrical panels or any other elements that take up wall space. It's a good idea to create a rough sketch of your garage with measurements noted so you can experiment with different cabinet sizes and layouts. Standard garage cabinet height is 84-96 inches, but you may want to go lower or higher depending on your needs.
Cabinet depth is normally around 24 inches, but you can go as shallow as 12 inches for narrow spaces. Take into account that deeper cabinets allow you to store more. For upper cabinets, consider the height of ceiling mounted objects so cabinets don't interfere. Make sure to plan for enough open wall space in between and on the outer sides of cabinets to open doors and drawers fully.
Once you've determined the measurements, calculate the number of base and upper cabinets needed for your desired configuration. Standard base cabinets are 34-36 inches wide and uppers are 12, 18 or 24 inches wide. Allow for at least a few inches between cabinets to accommodate trim. Creating a cabinet plan will ensure you build the right size and amount.
Buying Materials
When building DIY garage cabinets, you'll need several key materials:
Plywood and Boards
- Plywood is used for the sides, tops, bottoms, backs, and shelves of the cabinets. Go with 3/4" thick plywood for maximum durability. Birch plywood offers an attractive look.
- Boards are used to frame the cabinet boxes. 2x4s or 1x3s work well. Select straight, knot-free boards. Pine boards are affordable and paint up nicely.
Hardware
- Hinges connect the doors to the cabinets. Look for durable soft-close hinges designed for heavy use.
- Handles and knobs add style while providing a grip for opening doors and drawers. Stainless steel or black hardware suits a garage aesthetic.
- Drawer slides enable smooth drawer operation. Look for full extension slides rated for 100+ pounds.
Interior Parts
- Shelves provide storage space within the cabinets. Use 3/4" plywood cut to size.
- Drawers offer dedicated storage for tools. Use 1/2" plywood for the sides, front, and back.
Carefully measure your cabinets to determine the required materials. Having all necessary materials on hand before starting will make the project go smoothly.
Building the Cabinet Boxes
Building the cabinet boxes is one of the most important steps in the process. Take your time here to ensure you end up with sturdy, square boxes that will support whatever you want to store in them.
Cut the plywood pieces for the sides, top and bottom of each cabinet box according to the measurements you took during planning. Use a circular saw for long straight cuts and a jigsaw for any openings or cutouts. Make sure the edges are smooth and square.
Assemble the boxes using wood glue and nails. Apply wood glue to the edges of the plywood and clamp pieces together. Use a pneumatic nail gun to reinforce the joints, nailing through the plywood every 4-6 inches. Make sure the corners are square by measuring diagonally across them - the measurements should be equal.
Let the glue fully cure before moving on to adding doors, drawers or installing the cabinets. Well-constructed boxes will provide a sturdy foundation for your DIY garage storage system.
Adding Doors and Drawers
One of the most satisfying parts of building DIY garage cabinets is adding the doors and drawers. This really makes the cabinets feel complete and gives them a custom, built-in look.
When adding doors and drawers, you'll need to:
- Attach hinges
- Install knobs or pulls
- Add drawer slides
Attaching Hinges
I recommend using European-style concealed hinges for a clean look. Make sure to get the correct type for your door thickness and weight. Hold each hinge up to the door to mark where to drill the screw holes. Use a drill/driver to install the screws and attach the hinges to the doors.
Adjust the hinges so the door aligns properly when closed. Most concealed hinges allow you to adjust them side-to-side, depth, and height. Take your time getting the perfect alignment.
Installing Handles
Once the doors are hung, it's time to add the knobs or pulls. I prefer a simple bar pull to match the modern style of the cabinets. Measure and mark where you want the pulls located. Drill holes to attach them.
For a seamless look, make sure the hardware matches on all doors and drawers.
Installing Drawer Slides
High-quality drawer slides will ensure smooth operation for years to come. Ball bearing slides are best for heavy use. Make sure to get the correct length slides for your drawer depth.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to securely mount the drawer slide pieces onto the drawers and cabinet interior. The drawer should glide effortlessly when properly installed.
With the doors hung and the drawers sliding smoothly, you now have professional looking garage storage cabinets! Take pride in this DIY project every time you access your tools or supplies.
Finishing the Cabinets
Once the cabinet boxes are built and doors and drawers installed, it's time to finish them. Proper finishing is important both for appearance and protection.
Sand Edges
Lightly sand all edges and surfaces with fine grit sandpaper. This helps smooth any rough spots and allows the paint or stain to adhere well. Be sure to sand in the direction of the wood grain.
Apply Primer
Primer creates a bonding layer so the paint adheres to the wood. Use a high-quality primer suited for the type of paint you'll be using. Apply a thin coat of primer and allow it to fully dry before painting.
Paint/Stain as Desired
You can paint or stain your cabinets depending on the look you want. Paint comes in any color and provides a uniform finish. Stain allows the natural wood grain to show through while coloring the wood. Apply in thin, even coats and allow drying fully between coats. Add two to three coats for best coverage and protection.
Proper prep work and finishing transforms basic wood into beautiful, durable cabinets that will last for years to come. Take your time with the finishing steps to achieve a professional looking end result.
Installing the Cabinets
After building your DIY garage cabinets, it's time to mount them on the wall. Proper installation is crucial for functionality and safety.
Carefully mark the exact positions on the wall where you want to install the cabinets, according to your layout plan. Use a level to ensure your marks are perfectly horizontal.
It's critical that you attach the cabinets directly into the wall studs for maximum strength and stability. Locate the studs using a stud finder and mark their positions.
Use appropriate screws designed for fastening cabinets (often 3-4" wood screws). Drill pilot holes to avoid splitting the wood. Hold each cabinet in place, either solo or with a helper, and screw firmly into the studs through the cabinet back. Go slowly and double check for level.
If needed, use wall anchors rated for substantial weight in between the studs. However, the majority of the attachment points should be directly into studs.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions if you purchased ready-to-assemble garage cabinets. They may recommend specific mounting brackets, hardware, and methods.
Proper installation is the final crucial step in creating DIY garage cabinets. Taking your time to securely fasten the cabinets to the wall will ensure they function safely and effectively for years to come.
Adding Trim
After the cabinets are installed, it's time to add trim around the edges for a polished, finished look. Carefully measuring and cutting the trim pieces is an important step to achieve a professional result.
When selecting trim, opt for materials that match or complement the look of your cabinets. Hardwoods like oak or poplar are classic choices, while PVC and cellular PVC trim boards are lower maintenance options. Measure the perimeter of the cabinet installation and purchase trim boards accordingly.
Cut the trim just slightly longer than needed, allowing some room for adjustment. Use a miter saw to cut neat 45 degree angles at the corners. Having tight seams where trim boards meet is the hallmark of quality trim work.
Before installing the trim, make sure the cabinet edges and walls are clean. Run a bead of wood glue on the back side of the trim and press firmly in place around the cabinets. Use finishing nails and/or wood screws to securely fasten.
Fill any nail holes with wood filler and sand smooth. Caulk along the top edges and joints for a seamless look. Finish by painting or staining the trim to match the cabinets. Properly installed trim gives DIY garage cabinets a built-in, high-end appearance.
Stocking the Cabinets
Once your DIY garage cabinets are fully installed, it's time to add the interior components and organize all your stuff. Here are some tips:
Add Shelves and Drawers
- Measure your cabinet interiors and cut shelving boards to size. You can use plywood, MDF, or solid wood boards. Sand the edges smooth.
- Install shelf support pegs or metal brackets at your desired spacing. Make sure shelves are level.
- Build drawers to fit the specific openings. The drawer fronts can match or coordinate with the cabinet doors.
- Add drawer slides so the drawers glide smoothly. Soft-close slides prevent slamming.
- Consider using trays or small bins to help organize contents.
Organize Contents
- Think about what you will be storing and group similar items.
- Use upper cabinets for lightweight items or things not often accessed.
- Put frequently used tools and supplies in the lower and middle cabinets for easy access.
- Store hazardous chemicals properly for safety.
- Use drawer organizers and dividers to neatly arrange contents.
- Label shelves and bins so items have a “home.”
- Leave room for future items. Don’t overstuff cabinets right away.
Organizing your DIY garage cabinets makes your workshop more productive and efficient. Take the time to optimize the space for your needs.
Conclusion
Building your own DIY garage cabinets can be a very rewarding project. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you now have the knowledge to design, build, and install customized garage cabinets that meet your specific storage needs.
This project does require some woodworking skills, but as long as you take it step-by-step, it is very achievable even for beginner DIYers. And you'll save a tremendous amount versus buying pre-made garage cabinets. Depending on the size of your garage and materials used, you could potentially save hundreds or even thousands of dollars with this DIY approach.
As you make your cabinets, don't be afraid to customize and make changes to better suit your needs. For example, you could:
- Vary the height, width, and depth of cabinets and drawers.
- Add extra interior organizing features like shelving, hooks, bins, etc.
- Use different materials like plywood, solid wood, or medium density fiberboard.
- Paint or stain the cabinets in your preferred color.
- Add doors, drawers, or open shelving anywhere you like.
- Install extra lighting or power outlets inside the cabinets.
The options are endless when you DIY. And you'll end up with durable, high-quality cabinets tailored specifically for your garage. Enjoy the satisfaction of having custom storage you created yourself.
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