How Much Do Garage Cabinets Cost?

Having organized garage storage can make a world of difference in keeping your garage tidy and functional. Garage cabinets are one of the best ways to add storage and organization to your garage. But how much do garage cabinets cost? Here is a detailed overview of garage cabinet costs and factors that impact the price.

Introduction

The cost of garage cabinets can range quite a bit based on the size of your garage, the types of cabinets you select, and the quality of the materials. Basic pre-fabricated garage cabinet sets can cost as little as $150. High-end custom cabinetry built with solid wood can cost $10,000 or more.

Most homeowners spend $800 to $3,500 for installed garage cabinets. Keep reading to learn more about what impacts garage cabinet costs and how you can get the storage you need at a price you can afford.

Factors That Impact Garage Cabinet Costs

Many factors influence how much you will pay for garage cabinetry. Below are some of the main considerations to keep in mind.

Garage Size

The overall size of your garage and how much wall space you have available will determine how much cabinetry you can install. A one-car garage may only accommodate wall cabinets on one wall while a three-car garage offers ample space for floor-to-ceiling cabinets along multiple walls.

In general, more garage cabinetry equals higher cost. Measure your available wall space to determine linear footage so you can estimate costs accordingly.

Cabinet Type

There are three main types of garage cabinets:

Prefabricated cabinet sets – These modular cabinet systems come in standard sizes and configurations. They typically cost $100-$300 per section.
Stock cabinets – Stock cabinets include standard cabinet sizes and layouts that can be combined in different configurations. They typically cost $80-$200 per cabinet.
Custom cabinets – Custom cabinets are designed specifically for your garage and needs. They cost $150-$500 or more per cabinet.

Custom and stock cabinets cost more than prefabricated systems but provide a more customized look and fit.

Materials

Garage cabinet materials also impact the cost:

Engineered wood – The most budget-friendly option, starting around $80 per cabinet.
Plywood – Offers durability at a moderate cost of $150 per cabinet.
Solid wood – The most expensive option at $250+ per cabinet but will last for decades.
Metal – Known for strength, metal cabinets start around $120 each.

Plastic laminate and stainless steel cabinets are two other material options. In general, solid wood and stainless steel cabinets cost the most while laminates and engineered wood are cheaper options.

Cabinet Quality

As you would expect, higher quality garage cabinets made with thicker materials, soft-closing hardware, and intricate details cost more than basic utilitarian cabinetry. Focus on quality for cabinets that will stand the test of time.

Installation

You can save money by installing garage cabinets yourself. But factor $40-$100 per hour for professional installation services to ensure your new cabinets are securely fastened to the wall and look their best.

Average Costs for Garage Cabinets

Now that you know what impacts garage cabinet pricing, what is the typical range? Here are average costs for common garage cabinetry projects:

Basic prefab cabinet set – $500
Stock cabinetry along one wall – $1,200
Custom cabinetry along two walls – $3,000
Built-in cabinetry and storage throughout – $5,000+

These numbers assume average quality cabinets professionally installed. Higher end cabinetry or DIY installation would affect the pricing.

To determine your budget, first decide how much wall space you want to fill then multiply by the average cost per linear foot:

Prefab cabinets – $25-$50 per linear foot
Stock cabinets – $50-$100 per linear foot
Custom cabinets – $100-$200+ per linear foot

This will give you an estimated budget to work with. Just keep in mind that specialty storage items like workbenches and overhead racks will add to the cost.

Cost to Install Garage Cabinets

If you plan to install garage cabinets yourself, your only costs will be the cabinetry and materials like mounting hardware, trim, and tools. This can save you 20-30% off the total project cost versus hiring installation.

If you do want to hire a pro, expect to pay:

Carpenter – $70 per hour
Handyman – $40-$60 per hour
Cabinet installer – $50-$100 per hour

Installers may charge a flat project rate based on the scope of work rather than hourly. For a full garage, costs typically range from $1,000 to $3,000+ for professional installation.

Factors That Increase Installation Costs

More complex garage cabinet projects will have higher installation costs:

Difficult garage layout or access
Tall ceiling heights requiring scaffolding
Built-in cabinetry requiring new framing
Additional rewiring or electrical work
Removal of existing fixtures or finishes
Custom cabinet designs requiring precision installation

Any variables that make the install take longer equate to higher labor costs.

Cost Saving Tips for Garage Cabinets

To get the garage storage you need while sticking to your budget, keep these tips in mind:

Buy prefabricated cabinets – Modular systems offer major cost savings over custom cabinetry.
Install cabinets yourself – Skip hiring a pro and save 20-30% on installation costs.
Choose stock cabinets – Provides more customization than prefab at a lower cost than fully custom.
Mix and match materials – Use solid wood only for visible cabinet fronts to save costs.
Focus on key areas – Prioritize cabinetry along the main garage walls first.
Add cabinets gradually – Start with critical storage needs and add more over time.
Buy used cabinets – Secondhand cabinets in good shape offer big savings.
Use plywood instead of solid wood – Opt for plywood cabinet boxes to save over pricier solid wood.
Install DIY countertops – Use inexpensive materials like plywood for countertops.

With smart planning, you can install garage cabinets that meet your storage needs and won’t break the bank!

Typical Garage Cabinet Dimensions

Garage cabinet sizes vary based on the type of cabinet:

Base cabinets – Typically 24-30 inches deep and 34.5-35 inches tall. Widths range from 12-48 inches wide, increasing in 3 inch increments.
Wall cabinets – Standard depth around 12 inches. Heights range from 30-42 inches tall while widths span 12-48 inches.
Tall cabinets – Base cabinet depth of 24-30 inches and height of 70-84 inches. Widths range from 12-24 inches.
Sink cabinets – Base cabinet sizing of 24-30 inches deep and 34.5 inches tall. Sink cutout width averages 25 inches.

Measure your garage space carefully to determine what cabinet sizes will fit your available layout and storage needs.

Planning Your Garage Cabinet Layout

A well-planned garage cabinet layout is crucial for functionality. Follow these tips when planning:

Take measurements – Map out your garage’s dimensions, doors, windows, and any obstructions.
Mark utilities – Note the locations of electrical, plumbing, gas lines, heaters etc. to avoid conflicts.
Identify activities – How will you use the garage space? Tailor the layout accordingly.
Include lanes – Leave ample room for walking paths and opening car doors.
Incorporate openings – Allow space for garage doors to fully open.
Choose focal points – Plan cabinets with convenient access to work areas.
Allow for growth – Leave room for additional cabinets and storage to be added over time.

With measurements and an idea of your priorities in hand, you can map out an efficient cabinet layout.

Popular Garage Cabinet Ideas

Beyond just everyday storage, garage cabinetry can incorporate specialized spaces for your hobbies and interests. Some popular garage cabinet layout ideas include:

Workbench Cabinetry

Optimize garage work space with:

Sturdy countertop workbenches
Base cabinets for storage below
Pegboards for hanging tools
Extra electrical outlets

Gardening Station

Create a space for potting, planting and yard storage with:

Countertop potting table
Cabinets for fertilizer, pots, and tools
Sink and sprayer faucet
Drying racks overhead

Bike Storage

Store bikes, gear, and tools neatly and accessibly:

Vertical bike racks mounted on the wall
Floor-to-ceiling cabinets specially sized to hold bikes
Drawers for helmets, pads, pumps etc.

Appliance Garage

Hide mess with a custom closet for large appliances:

Deep cabinets to enclose refrigerators or freezers
Ventilation for integrated garage fridge or beverage coolers
Power supply for appliances

Get creative with how you incorporate cabinetry catered to your hobbies and interests!

Choosing Garage Cabinet Materials

Optimal garage cabinet materials will be durable, moisture resistant, and able to withstand temperature swings. Top options include:

Steel

Pros:

Extremely strong and impact resistant
Moisture resistant finish
Affordable compared to wood

Cons:

Prone to dents
industrial look

Steel provides rugged storage at a reasonable price point. It works well for workbench cabinets and hardware storage.

Engineered Wood

Pros:

Budget-friendly cost
Consistent quality construction
Easy to clean

Cons:

Prone to moisture damage
Less durable than solid wood

Engineered wood like particle board is cost-effective but shouldn’t be used in damp areas.

Plywood

Pros:

Durable and resistant to warping
Easy to paint and finish
Withstands moisture better than MDF

Cons:

Not as strong as solid wood
Can split over time

Plywood is a versatile option suitable for most garage cabinets. Opt for moisture-resistant plywood.

Wood

Pros:

Beautiful natural look
Extremely durable over decades
Can be sanded and refinished

Cons:

The most expensive option
Heavy
Can warp or split with moisture

Solid wood offers timeless quality and appearance but comes at a premium price.

Laminate

Pros:

Most budget-friendly option
Easy to clean
Durable laminated surface

Cons:

Not as strong as solid wood
Can peel or bubble when wet
Prone to scratches and dents

Laminates provide affordable storage but lack in durability.

Evaluate your priorities to select the ideal materials for your garage cabinets. The right combination provides long-lasting function and beauty.

Building Your Own Garage Cabinets

For the most customization at the lowest price, you can build DIY garage cabinets. This allows you to:

Choose ideal materials and sizes
Personalize cabinets for specialized storage
Save money with DIY labor

Follow these steps to build your own garage cabinets:

Plan the Design

Take detailed measurements of your garage.
Map out where cabinets will go, leaving ample room for doors and vehicles.
Determine cabinet sizes and configurations needed. Mix and match standard dimensions as needed.

Purchase Materials

Buy pre-cut plywood or wood panels to eliminate much of the cutting. Home improvement stores will precision cut sheets down to size for you.
For cabinet faces, select attractive plywood or solid wood boards.
Purchase necessary hardware like hinges, pulls, and shelf pins.

Cut Pieces to Size

Carefully cross cut panels for sides, tops, bottoms, shelves etc. according to your measurements using a circular saw.
Rip longer boards to width for the face frames.

Assemble Cabinet Boxes

Drill pocket holes to attach the sides to top and bottom panels and build each box.
Glue and clamp the pieces together securely.
Attach fixed shelves and divider panels if needed.

Attach Face Frames and Doors

Cut face frame boards to length and use pocket holes to attach them, creating a finished cabinet front.
Mount doors and adjust hinges so doors close flush.

Add Finishing Touches

Sand down any rough edges. Apply primer and paint or stain for protection and appearance.
Add hardware like handles and shelf pins.
Install the cabinets securely on garage walls.

With some carpentry skills and tools, you can create high-quality garage cabinets tailored specifically for your space and storage needs.

Popular Garage Cabinet Ideas

Incorporating specialty cabinetry and storage solutions can turn your garage into the ultimate workspace and maintenance hub. Some top options include:

Pegboard Walls

Pegboard walls utilize a grid of holes allowing you to hang tools and accessories anywhere using hooks. This provides completely customizable tool organization. Use pegboard above workbenches or cabinetry to maximize vertical storage.

Slatwall Panels

Slatwall panels create vertical tool storage like pegboards. Horizontal slats have repeating grooves allowing compatible slatwall accessories to be mounted anywhere. Slatwall panels come pre-assembled for fast installation.

Drawer Toolboxes

For mobile tool storage, add in full extension drawer toolboxes or chests. Mounted on ball bearing slides, the drawers open fully for easy access to tools. Use drawer liners and foam inserts to organize the contents. Locking options add security.

Overhead Racks

Racks mounted near the ceiling provide storage for ladders, pipes, and other long items. Hoists allow you to easily lift items up for storage overhead. For safety, securely bolt racks into studs.

Retractable Reels

Retractable hose reels, cord reels, and air hose reels keep these items neatly stored off the ground yet easily accessible. Reels mount to ceilings, walls, or cabinets.

Wall-Mount Cabinets

Take advantage of vertical space with wall-mounted cabinets. Opt for open shelves or enclosed cabinets with doors. Use near work areas to store small supplies within arm’s reach.

With well-planned specialty storage, you can keep all your gear organized and accessible.

Garage Cabinet Ideas to Maximize Space

Garages are prone to clutter and chaos. Make the most of your square footage and build optimized storage with strategies like:

Use Wall Space

Install tall wall cabinets that go all the way up to the ceiling. Use open shelving for visible access or closed cabinets to conceal contents. Opt for extra deep cabinets to hold large items.

Workbench Cabinetry

Incorporate base cabinets below a sturdy countertop. Full extension drawers provide ample storage that pulls all the way out for easy access to contents in the back.

Pegboard Walls

Cover open wall areas with pegboard panels to hang frequently-used tools, saving floor space. Use pegboard above workbenches or cabinets to utilize vertical real estate.

Slatwall Panels

Slatwall creates additional vertical storage like pegboard. The slots allow compatible accessories to be mounted anywhere on the panels.

Overhead Storage Racks

Install heavy duty racks near garage ceilings to get ladders, lumber, and other large items up and out of the way. Use a pulley system for convenient access.

Retractable Reels

Retractable reels for hoses, cords, and air lines keep these items off the floor yet easily accessible when needed. Reels mount to walls, ceilings or cabinets.

With clever storage options, you can comfortably fit everything you need in your garage.

Garage Cabinet Installation Tips

Proper installation ensures your new garage cabinets provide safe and sturdy storage for years to come. Follow these tips:

Use cleats to mount cabinets – Nail horizontal cleats made from 2x4s to garage walls, spaced to match cabinet height and width. Rest cabinets on the cleats.
Secure to studs – Ensure cabinets are screwed into wall studs for maximum strength and stability.
Use wall anchors – For added reinforcement, use hollow drywall anchors to anchor cabinets to the wall between studs.
Shim cabinets if needed – Use shims during installation to level wall-mounted cabinets and plumb base cabinets.
Pre-drill holes – Drill pilot holes before driving screws to prevent splitting cabinets.
Add supports and braces – For heavy cabinets, install supports like 2x4s between wall studs.
Check for plumb and level – Verify cabinets are plumb and level using a spirit level as you install. Make any needed adjustments.

With proper installation techniques, your garage cabinets will stay safely secured exactly where you want them.

Maintaining Garage Cabinets

Regular maintenance keeps your garage cabinets looking their best and functioning optimally:

Clean spills promptly – Immediately wiping any drips or spills prevents stains and damage.
Remove grease buildup – Degrease cabinet surfaces near work areas periodically using a quality degreaser.
Protect cabinet faces – Install removable plexiglass shields on frequently-used cabinets to prevent dings.
Touch up paint – Spot paint any scrapes or scratches to prevent rust or peeling.
Lubricate hinges – Keep cabinet hinges operating smoothly by occasionally applying silicone spray lube.
Check for loose hardware – Periodically inspect for any loose screws or pulls and re-tighten as needed.

With consistent care and cleaning, quality garage cabinets will serve you reliably for decades.

Garage Cabinet Ideas to Increase Functionality

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