Are Metal Kitchen Cabinets Lighter Than Wooden?

When designing or remodeling a kitchen, one of the biggest decisions to make is what type of cabinets to install. Two popular options are metal and wooden cabinets, each with their own pros and cons. One key difference between the two is weight – metal cabinets tend to be lighter than wooden ones. Let’s take a closer look at why metal kitchen cabinets are often lighter than their wooden counterparts.

Why Metal Kitchen Cabinets Are Lighter

Metal kitchen cabinets are generally made from steel, stainless steel, or aluminum. These metals are much less dense than wood, so metal cabinets have less overall weight and mass.

Here are some of the key reasons metal cabinets tend to be lighter:

• Steel has a density of about 8 g/cm3 compared to 0.6-0.8 g/cm3 for common wood types used in cabinetry. This makes steel nearly 10 times less dense than wood.
• Aluminum has an even lower density at around 2.7 g/cm3, making aluminum kitchen cabinets extremely lightweight.
• Metal can be formed into thinner sheets and panels than wood cabinets, further reducing weight. Wood requires a certain thickness for structure and durability.
• Metal framing often uses hollow tubing which cuts down on mass versus wood framing.
• Hardware and fasteners in metal cabinets are usually lighter as well.

So in summary, the lower density metals used, along with construction techniques aimed at reducing mass, all contribute to metal kitchen cabinets weighing less than wood varieties.

Typical Weight Differences

To give some real world examples, here are some rough estimates for cabinet weights:

• A 30″ base wood cabinet weighs between 75-100 lbs on average.
• A comparable 30″ steel base cabinet is typically 40-60 lbs.
• A 30″ wall cabinet made from wood is around 50-70 lbs.
• The same size wall cabinet in aluminum may be 25-35 lbs.

So for both wall and base cabinets, metal versions will be 25-50% lighter than wood models of the same size. The differences become more pronounced for larger cabinetry – a 60″ wood pantry cabinet might be 150-200 lbs whereas a steel pantry may clock in under 100 lbs.

These numbers can vary based on specific designs and materials used, but clearly demonstrate the considerable weight savings metal kitchen cabinets provide.

Benefits of Lighter Metal Cabinets

The lower weight of metal kitchen cabinets comes with several advantages:

• Easier handling and installation – Reduced weight makes metal cabinets easier to maneuver and hang up. This also makes DIY installation more manageable.
• Less strain on floors and walls – Metal puts less load on the floor compared to dense wood, reducing the chance of sagging or damage over time. Walls also undergo less stress from lighter overhead cabinets.
• Reconfiguration and moving easier – Metal cabinets can be moved and repositioned with less hassle down the road. This flexibility lets you easily update your layout.
• Shipping and transportation – Manufacturers and homeowners save on fuel and transport costs due to the reduced weight.
• Accessibility – Since they are lightweight, metal cabinets are a smart choice for senior or disabled homeowners who may have difficulty with heavier items.

So in many scenarios, the lighter load of metal kitchen cabinets provides significant functional benefits from installation through years of use.

Weight Considerations When Choosing Cabinet Materials

When deciding between metal versus wood cabinets, the weight difference is just one factor to keep in mind. Here are some other considerations:

• Wood types like pine are lighter than hardwoods, so choose wisely if seeking lighter wood cabinetry.
• Semi-custom wood cabinets allow you to specify lighter plywood boxes or frames to pare down wood weight.
• Opt for aluminum over steel if minimal weight is a priority.
• Use caution hanging heavy wall cabinets on metal stud walls which have lower weight limits.
• Evaluate your floor structure to ensure it can handle the load of heavyweight wood cabinets, especially upper units.
• Remember that custom wood cabinetry gives you creative options to mix materials, like using a metal base with wood uppers.

Taking the time to carefully weigh your kitchen plans, needs, and structure will help guide you to the best cabinet material and style choices.

Frequently Asked Questions About Metal and Wood Cabinet Weights

Are all metal cabinets lighter than wood cabinets?

In general, metal kitchen cabinets will be lighter than wood. However, some steel cabinets may be close in weight or slightly heavier than light wood varieties like pine. But overall, metal like aluminum and stainless steel will yield the lightest cabinets.

How much weight will metal cabinets save over wood?

On average, metal base cabinets are 20-40% lighter than wood counterparts of the same size. For wall cabinets, metal can offer 25-50% weight savings over wood. In real numbers, this can be a difference of 50 pounds or more per cabinet.

What are the lightest options for kitchen cabinets?

Aluminum cabinets are the lightest metal kitchen cabinets, followed by stainless steel. Bamboo is a very light wood material. And pine or maple provide lightweight options for more traditional wood cabinets. Also, consider frameless construction and smaller hardware.

Are metal cabinet frames much lighter than wood?

Yes, metal cabinet frames weigh significantly less than wood. For example, a stainless steel frame may weigh 50 pounds whereas an oak cabinet frame is often over 100 pounds for the same size. Opting for metal framing is a great way to cut cabinet weight.

Can heavy upper cabinets cause problems over time?

Yes, very heavy wood wall cabinets applied to drywall and studs can become problematic over many years of use. The weight can lead to loosening of connections, sagging, and possible collapse. Going with metal uppers significantly reduces this risk.

Is the weight difference really noticeable when installing cabinets?

Absolutely. Handling and hanging metal cabinets is markedly easier than wood ones. If doing a DIY kitchen installation, metal cabinetry will make the process faster and less taxing. Even for pros, the lighter materials reduce fatigue and injury risks.

Conclusion

When exploring kitchen cabinet options, recognizing that metal cabinets are generally much lighter than wooden varieties can significantly inform your decision. The reduced weight of metal cabinetry provides practical upfront benefits during installation, as well as long term perks like reduced strain on your home’s structure. Factors like cabinet material, construction, and size all impact the final weight. Carefully weighing these factors will help you select cabinetry that perfectly suits your space and needs.