Galvanised metal has become increasingly popular for use in cabinets due to its durability, corrosion resistance, and affordability. Using galvanised metal for cabinets provides many benefits that make it an ideal material for kitchens, garages, outdoor storage and more. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using galvanised metal for your cabinet projects.

An Introduction to Galvanised Metal

Galvanised metal refers to steel or iron that has been coated with a protective layer of zinc. The zinc coating provides a barrier between the base metal and the elements, preventing rust and corrosion.

The most common method of galvanising is hot-dip galvanising. In this process, clean pieces of steel or iron are submerged in a bath of molten zinc. The zinc bonds to the metal surface creating a durable coating. The thickness of the coating can vary depending on the length of time in the zinc bath.

Galvanised metal is affordable, readily available, and requires little maintenance. The zinc coating is self-healing, meaning that if the coating gets scratched, the exposed steel will still be protected from corrosion. Simply leaving the metal exposed to air will allow a new zinc coating to form.

Compared to other metals like stainless steel or aluminum, galvanised steel provides excellent corrosion resistance at a fraction of the cost. It is an ideal choice for many applications, including:

• Outdoor furniture
• Animal cages/kennels
• Greenhouses
• Sheds
• Trailers
• Garbage bins
• HVAC ductwork
• Electrical enclosures
• Roofing and gutters
• Fencing

Using galvanised metal for cabinets combines the material’s inherent durability and affordability with the versatility of cabinetry. Keep reading to learn more about successfully working with galvanised metal for your cabinet projects.

Benefits of Using Galvanised Metal for Cabinets

There are several key advantages that make galvanised metal an excellent choice for cabinetry:

Corrosion Resistance

The zinc coating provides superior corrosion resistance, even when exposed to weather, moisture, and humidity. Galvanised metal cabinets can withstand the elements in outdoor environments. The coating also prevents rust from forming inside cabinets used for garage storage or laundry rooms.

Durability

Galvanised steel is extremely durable and impact resistant. Cabinets made from this material will stand up to years of regular use without showing much wear. The surface resists dents, dings, and scratches better than many other metals.

Affordability

Galvanised steel tends to cost significantly less than stainless steel or aluminum. You can achieve the sleek, modern look of metal cabinets for a fraction of the price by opting for galvanised steel.

Low Maintenance

Once installed, galvanised metal requires little ongoing maintenance. You don’t need to seal, finish or regularly repaint it like wood cabinets. Simply wipe down occasionally with a wet cloth.

Design Flexibility

Galvanised steel is easy to bend, shape and cut. This allows for very flexible cabinet designs and customizations. Curved doors, angled fronts, and more unique elements are possible.

Fire Resistance

The non-combustible zinc coating makes galvanised steel cabinets highly resistant to fire damage. This added safety precaution is ideal for garage cabinets or other high-risk areas.

Using Raw Galvanised Metal vs Powder Coated

When working with galvanised metal for cabinets, you have two main finishing options:

Raw Galvanised Metal

Using the unfinished galvanised metal exposes the dull gray zinc coating. This industrial look provides a more budget-friendly option. However, the visible zinc coating can show scratches over time. Fingerprints and smudges may also accumulate on the raw metal surface.

Powder Coated

Powder coating applies a colored polymer resin as a decorative finish on top of the galvanised metal. This creates a hard, smooth surface that resists scratches and hides the underlying galvanised layer. Powder coated finishes are available in a wide range of colors from bold to neutral. They provide good stain and fade resistance when used indoors.

Powder coating is more expensive than raw galvanised metal, but offers a more refined, finished look. Weigh your project budget and visual preferences when deciding between the two options.

Design Considerations for Galvanised Metal Cabinets

Careful planning during the design process will ensure your galvanised metal cabinets not only look great, but function well. Keep these tips in mind:

Select Appropriate Gauges

Galvanised steel comes in a range of metal gauges or thickness levels. Thinner 22 gauge steel provides an economical choice for cabinet walls and shelving. For doors and frames, opt for 18 to 20 gauge for adequate durability and dent resistance. Consider 14 gauge steel for high-traffic commercial applications.

Incorporate Ventilation

The non-porous metal surface limits natural air flow. Integrate ventilation slots, mesh panels or louvered vents as needed to prevent condensation build up and allow airflow. Proper ventilation is especially important for metal cabinets used around high-moisture appliances like laundry or dishwashers.

Include Strong Hinges

Look for galvanised steel hinges with a ball-bearing pivot made for heavy use. Concealed hinges also provide a sleek, modern finish. Avoid lighter weight brass or plastic hinges that could bend or break over time.

Use Durable Joints

Riveted, interlocking, or welded joints better withstand the weight of metal versus simple fasteners. This provides extra stability and prevents sagging doors or shelving. For a seamless look, choose welding for joints and seams.

Add Functional Interior Fittings

Incorporate galvanised metal shelves, racks, or drawers fitted to the cabinet interior. This provides optimal storage capability. Shelves should be removable or adjustable to allow flexible arrangements.

Plan for Added Weight

Galvanised steel weighs more than wood or composites. Properly reinforce walls and use sufficiently robust hardware to support the weight of metal cabinets. Consider supplemental wall anchors or metal studs if installing on drywall.

Thoughtful design and material selections will yield galvanised steel cabinets tailored to your specific storage needs and built to last.

Working with Galvanised Metal for Your Cabinets

While galvanised steel offers many benefits, working with metal during cabinet construction requires some special considerations.

Gather the Right Tools and Safety Equipment

Cutting, drilling, grinding, and finishing galvanised steel generates sparks, sharp edges, and debris. Wear safety goggles, heavy work gloves, ear protection, and a dust mask or respirator. Work in a well-ventilated area.

Use power tools designed for cutting and drilling metal. Invest in quality abrasive metal cut-off wheels and drill bits specifically for steel. A angle grinder, nibbler, or plasma cutter make cutting curved openings or custom shapes easier. Have a fire extinguisher nearby when welding.

Mind Heat Distortion and Galvanic Corrosion

The zinc coating can turn matte and peel away if overheated while cutting or grinding. Avoid this by periodically dipping hot metal in water. The dissimilar metals of galvanised steel and stainless steel hardware can also react, damaging the finish. Use hot-dipped galvanised fasteners when possible.

Prime and Finish for Added Protection

While not mandatory, priming and painting provides extra corrosion resistance and a decorative finish. Degrease and lightly sand the metal to improve adhesion. Opt for a high zinc content primer to match the galvanised coating. Use an enamel topcoat for a durable, washable surface.

Allow Time for Proper Metal Handling

Compared to woodworking, allow extra time for safely managing the heavy steel, precise metal cutting, grinding any rough edges, welding strong seams, and finishing. Well-executed metalwork takes patience but provides lasting results.

While requiring some different techniques, galvanised steel can be successfully worked into durable, custom cabinets with the right planning and precautions.

Installing Your Galvanised Metal Cabinets

Once construction is complete, it’s time to install your galvanised metal cabinets for years of service. Here are some best practices:

Clean Surfaces

Wipe down existing walls, floors, and cabinets to remove dirt and debris. This allows for good adhesion of caulks, adhesives, and sealants during installation. Address any moisture issues beforehand.

Place on a Stable Base

Reinforce floors as needed to support the weight of metal cabinets. Set cabinets on a perfectly level and flat surface or sturdy platform. Shim as required to prevent rocking and flexing.

Fasten Securely

Use cabinet screws or bolts designed for metal and the appropriate hardware for your wall type. Consider supplemental anchors for attaching to drywall. Drill pilot holes and avoid overtightening screws to prevent tearing the metal.

Create a Tight Seal

Caulk perimeter edges and seams to limit moisture entry. Use non-hardening caulk or silicone for better longevity. Foam backer rod helps fill wider gaps before caulking. Allow full curing time before use.

Protect Surfaces from Scratches

Cover countertops, floors, and nearby cabinets when moving metal cabinets into place. Position carefully to avoid bumps and scrapes during installation. Use temporary padding on the base to slide into the final position.

Check Doors and Drawers

Confirm cabinet doors and drawers align properly and open/close smoothly once fully installed. Adjust hinges or slides as needed. Lubricate tracks and hardware if sticking occurs.

Taking the time to cleanly finish cabinets and carefully install them will keep your galvanised metal cabinetry securely in place and looking pristine.

Maintenance Tips for Galvanised Metal Cabinets

While galvanised steel requires minimal maintenance, follow these tips to keep cabinets looking their best:

• Wipe down periodically with a soft cloth, mild soap and water to remove dirt and grime before it builds up. Avoid abrasive cleansers or scouring pads.
• Rinse thoroughly after cleaning and wipe dry to prevent water spots.
• Re-caulk any cracked or dried caulking to maintain a weathertight seal.
• Spot clean any rust spots with naval jelly or phosphoric acid. Rinse and reseal.
• For powder coated finishes, reapply topcoat as needed if finish is compromised or begins to fade.
• Lubricate door hinges and slides annually to prevent squeaking.
• Avoid storing wet items inside cabinets long term and promptly address any moisture incursion.
• Remove rust stains from adjacent surfaces like countertops to limit spread.
• Inspect for dents, structural issues, or other damage annually and repair promptly.

With occasional cleaning and targeted upkeep, your sturdy galvanised steel cabinets will provide many years of durable service.

Galvanised Metal Cabinet Ideas

Galvanised steel is highly versatile for a wide array of cabinet projects. Here are some inspiring ideas:

Outdoor Kitchens

Create a full outdoor cooking and prep area with galvanised steel cabinets. The durable material withstands sun, rain, and humidity. Integrate a grill, sink, appliances, and weather-resistant countertops.

Garage Storage

Optimize garage space with custom storage cabinets. Use galvanised steel uppers for chemicals, paints, tools and more. Include galvanised metal drawers or a workbench below. Increase safety and organization.

Metal Lockers

Modernize school or office corridors with sleek galvanised steel lockers. Powder coat in school colors or neutral hues. The durable material prevents dents and rust in high-traffic areas.

Bathroom Vanities

Industrial style bathrooms are on trend. Compliment a galvanised metal tub or sink with matching steel vanity cabinets. Use tile or concrete for the countertop to tie the look together.

Laundry Rooms

Laundry rooms tend to be damp, so galvanised steel is ideal. Build shelving and cabinets to house laundry supplies and appliances neatly. Add ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.

Outdoor Cabinetry

Create weatherproof storage beside the garage, patio or pool using galvanised cabinets. Use the cabinetry to store pool supplies, patio furniture cushions or gardening tools.

With some creativity, galvanised metal can lend its strength and durability to cabinet projects throughout your indoor and outdoor living spaces.

Galvanised Metal Provides the Ideal Cabinet Material

Galvanised steel offers the perfect balance of resilience, versatility and affordability for cabinetry. With proper planning and handling, galvanised metal can be worked into durable and long-lasting storage solutions. Consider integrating galvanised cabinetry into your next building or remodeling project to take advantage of the material’s unique benefits. With the right design and care, your galvanised steel cabinetry will provide reliable service for many years to come.

how to use galvanised metal in cabinets: Frequently Asked Questions

Galvanised metal cabinets are growing in popularity due to their durability, corrosion resistance, and cost-effectiveness. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about using this material for cabinetry projects:

Q: What thickness of galvanised steel is best for cabinets?

A: 22 gauge steel is suitable for cabinet walls and shelves. For doors and frames, 18-20 gauge provides adequate durability. 14 gauge is recommended for high-traffic commercial applications.

Q: What’s the best way to cut and drill galvanised steel?

A: Use power tools designed specifically for cutting and drilling metal. Go slowly to avoid overheating and invest in quality abrasive wheels and drill bits. Proper PPE like goggles and gloves are a must.

Q: How are galvanised steel cabinets constructed?

A: Welded or riveted joints provide the most strength. Hardware like hinges and slides should also be galvanised steel. Include vented panels to allow airflow and prevent moisture issues.

Q: Should I prime and paint galvanised steel cabinets?

A: Priming and painting is optional but provides extra protection and allows for custom colored finishes. Use high zinc primer and enamel topcoats designed for metals.

Q: What’s the best way to install and mount galvanised cabinets?

A: Properly reinforce the mounting surface first. Use cabinet screws or bolts made for metal and pre-drill holes. Follow with caulk/sealant for water tightness.

Q: How do I address rust spots or scratches on galvanised cabinets?

A: Spot clean affected areas with naval jelly or phosphoric acid. Rinse thoroughly and reseal. For powder coated finishes, reapply coating to scratched spots.

Q: Can galvanised cabinets be used outdoors and withstand weather?

A: Yes, the zinc coating provides excellent corrosion protection even when exposed to rain, humidity, and sun. Galvanised steel is ideal for outdoor kitchens, storage, etc.

Q: Why choose galvanised over stainless steel?

A: Galvanised steel provides great rust resistance at a fraction of the cost of stainless steel. It’s the most budget-friendly option for durable metal cabinets.

Final Thoughts on Building Projects with Galvanised Metal

Galvanised steel provides an affordable, durable, and versatile material to create custom cabinets suited to a wide variety of applications. With thoughtful design and proper handling, do-it-yourselfers can construct their own long-lasting galvanised cabinets. Consider incorporating this strong, low-maintenance metal into both indoor and outdoor storage solutions. With the right approach, galvanised steel allows even novices to take on ambitious cabinetry building projects that stand the test of time and use.