Garage cabinets – how to choose the best garage storage cabinets

Garage cabinets are especially important and necessary furniture which helps prevent chaos. Everyone knows that a chaos in the garage is not just unpleasant, it can be potentially dangerous if you have various tools, spare parts, tires, etc. scattered around. Organizing the space could be a challenge as often the space is limited which means you need to plan the design very carefully. In addition to that, it is not uncommon, that this is a multi-functional area which combines the functions of a home office or a home gym with the storage functions and the car protection. What are the options to have a modern looking, neat garage? Special storage cabinets, racks and shelves will help you in the organization. There is no need to explain why organization is important, right? Not only for the neat and tidy look, of course, but a good storage system will allow you to know where things are at any moment, and the precious space will not be cluttered by numerous tools, garden tools, holiday decoration, seasonal clothing, etc.

 

Garage cabinets – contemporary storage system ideas

 

How to arrange the best garage storage system? What are the perfect garage cabinets? What is better – wall cabinets or overhead storage? How to combine different types of storage options? We shall give you some useful tips and ideas and will show you how you can achieve a modern look without much effort.

Many people wonder how to arrange and make the best use of the space. There are some important basic principles which should be the guidelines in the design of any garage storage system. A modern garage is not only a place to keep your vehicle. It is a utility room, a hobby room, an office, a storage room and all of these rooms have to be squeezed in a limited space. You need to create a versatile space that provides enough space and is comfortable and safe. You do not need to be a specialist on ergonomics to design a place that meets your needs and personal requirements for functionality. Correct planning, measuring and zoning will make sure that you have the space to move comfortably and store all the tools and equipment. It is best if you draw a sketch of the project and the layout of the garage so that you can easily determine the length, width and height of the cabinets that you will need.

Make sure that your storage cabinets and shelves leave enough space for your vehicle and for comfortable getting in and out of the car. In a small garage it is best to opt for wall mounted alternatives and leave the floor space free. Choose the type of cabinets, as the market offers different options – metal, plastic, wooden, etc. The choice of the material will set the design concept. Of course, you need to think of suitable flooring, ventilation, lighting, what type of door you need as well as wall paint and any additional equipment.

Garage shelving systems are always useful. Those are stationary systems, mounted on the walls and provide a lot of storage space. However, shelves are not a good storage solution for heavier and bulkier items. Shelves are an excellent DIY project but they do not offer much of a visual aesthetics compared to cabinets, as all the stuff is exposed. The shelves can be made from solid wood and chipboard or metal, sometimes plastic but that is the least popular option.

Garage cabinets come in different sizes, height, depth and colors and often they are equipped with adjustable shelves so that you can customize the storage space. Many manufacturers offer modular storage solutions and this allows each homeowner to create his own design. You can add corner cabinets or wall cabinets to your design if you have the required space.

Also read: Garage Shelving Organization – Storage Ideas to Help You Declutter the Space

Plastic garage cabinets – pros and cons

 

Plastic garage cabinets are an excellent option when you need a cost effective storage and organization system. They are cheap and can be installed quickly and easily and are almost maintenance free as they do not get stained. Plastic cabinets have a great advantage of being resistant to water and will not warp or buckle if wet for an extended period of time.

Durability – plastic storage systems offer a long lifespan and great durability. However, they are not a suitable option if you plan to store heavy items as this may cause the cabinets to buckle over time and even crack. Unfortunately, the market is flooded with cheap alternatives which may bring a lot of disappointment to their owners. It is advisable that you choose plastic storage systems from a reputable manufacturer or seller which will guarantee you that the material is of high quality so that you do not have to send everything to the trash in a year or two. If you have to replace all of your cabinets, the low price is not really a comforting thought. As we mentioned the cost of plastic cabinets, you need to know, that those are cheaper than wood and metal alternatives. The low cost makes plastic cabinets ideal for a quick storage solution but if you are looking for high quality storage cabinets that will last a long time and can support the weight of some very heavy equipment, it is advisable that you choose an alternative option.

 

Advantages and disadvantages of metal garage cabinets

 

When it comes to choosing the best garage cabinets, the most popular options among customers are Lowes, Home depot and Sears, as those are among the biggest chains and they offer a great variety. Let’s look at the advantages of metal cabinets. They can be made of aluminum or stainless steel.

Metal cabinets are strong, durable and they are able to hold a higher weight load. They have a much longer lifetime than other materials. It is unlikely to see metal warp or break. Modern cabinets are manufactured with galvanized coating or powder enamel which protects them against corrosion and give them a presentable appearance with exceptionally good aesthetics. The majority of storage systems are equipped with individual locks, which adds to the safety and you can store sharp objects or chemicals away from the children. The cabinets come in a variety of color options and you find something to match your individual taste. Garage cabinets on wheels are a good option which allows greater flexibility and you can re-arrange the layout to suit the needs of the moment. You can combine wall mounted ones with  some number of cabinets on wheels and create a dynamic composition and original storage solution.

Despite the many advantages and the modern sleek appearance, metal garage cabinets have some drawbacks. On the first place, they are more expensive than wood and plastic options. Sharp edges and corners can be dangerous, especially to small children. Metal can be damaged by water and moisture and is susceptible to rust.

Maintenance of metal garage storage cabinets is very easy, as they do not stain easily. You can wipe them with a damp cloth to remove dust and paint (or re-paint) them if necessary.

 

Wood storage cabinets with modern design

 

You may have heard the saying that garage cabinets are quite similar to kitchen ones. It is quite true as they store a variety of tools, equipment and belongings just like kitchen cabinetry. When it comes to choosing the material for your cabinets wood is classic and has proven its advantages. Wood storage solutions can be found in as many designs, sizes, color options and style as kitchen cabinets designs and in addition, you can opt for a custom made storage system or choose to build your own one as a DIY project. Wood storage cabinets offer the advantage of being versatile and easy to install and use. You can install them almost anywhere and in any way you want. They are durable and good looking as well and you can choose from many colors, patterns wood grain finishes. You can re-finish or re-paint them and when you are on a budget, you could buy a number of second hand cabinets and customize them to your taste and preferences by stripping and applying a new coat of paint.

The major drawback of wood storage systems is that they are not resistant to moisture and due to the fact that the insulation of garages is often poor. They would warp, bow and crack and can be easily damaged by water. Wood requires regular maintenance as well so you need to keep that in mind.