How to Make Shelves for Metal Cabinets

Adding shelves to metal cabinets can help maximize storage space and organize contents. With some simple tools and materials, you can easily make custom shelves for your metal cabinets.

Introduction

Metal cabinets are sturdy, durable, and versatile for storage. However, the fixed shelving that comes with most metal cabinets does not always make the best use of vertical space. Custom shelves allow you to fully optimize the storage potential of your metal cabinets.

DIY shelves for metal cabinets can be made from various materials like wood, glass, or metal. Wood is the most common choice as it provides a nice finish and is easy to work with using basic tools. The design of the shelves can also be customized to fit the cabinet space and what you intend to store on them.

Making your own shelves allows you to get the exact size and number of shelves you need. It is also a budget-friendly option compared to buying premade shelving units. With a few simple tools and materials, you can create functional and great-looking shelves tailored specifically for your metal cabinets.

Planning Your Shelf Design

Before starting to make the shelves, take some time to plan out the design. Here are the key factors to consider:

Measure the Cabinet Interior

Take accurate measurements inside the cabinet so you can cut shelves to the perfect size. Measure the width, depth, and height of the interior space. Also take note of any obstructions like pre-drilled holes or protruding hardware.

Choose Material and Thickness

Wood is the most popular choice for DIY shelves to add to metal cabinets. Plyboard, MDF, and solid wood boards all work well. Opt for 3/4″ thickness for sturdiness. Avoid very thin woods prone to bowing or warping over time from weight.

Determine Number of Shelves

Look at the vertical space inside the cabinet and decide how many shelves you want to add and at what heights. Space shelves based on what you intend to store. Allow at least 3-4 inches of clearance between shelves.

Consider Shelf Supports

Shelf pins, brackets, standards, or ledges can provide extra support for shelf stability. Choose support options suitable for your cabinet’s interior that align with your planned shelf spacing.

Choose Finish

Unfinished, painted, or stained wood can all look great. Just ensure the finish is moisture-resistant and durable. For metal shelves, coating or powder-coating prevents rusting.

Making Wood Shelves for Metal Cabinets

Wood is easy to work with using basic tools to create custom shelves. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Materials Needed

• Plywood, MDF, or solid wood boards
• Power drill
• Circular saw or handsaw
• Sandpaper
• Wood glue
• Finishing supplies (stain, paint, polyurethane)
• Shelf pins, standards, or brackets

Cut the Shelf Boards to Size

Referring to your shelf measurements, cut the boards to the correct width and depth using a circular saw or handsaw. Cut all pieces to the same dimensions for uniformity. You can round-off the corners too if desired.

Sand Edges and Surfaces

Use medium to fine grit sandpaper to smooth any rough edges and surfaces. Sanding preps the wood for an even, attractive finish.

Apply Protective Finish

Applying stain, paint, or polyurethane protects the wood from moisture damage and gives a polished look. Allow sufficient drying time per the product directions.

Drill Holes for Shelf Supports

If using pins or standards, mark and drill holes in the side boards of each shelf. Place holes at the same distance from edges/ends for consistency.

Assemble the Shelves

For plywood or MDF shelves, apply wood glue to join pieces flush at corners and clamp until the glue sets. With solid boards, you can leave a small gap for wood movement.

Install Shelf Supports in Cabinet

Insert the shelf pins, brackets, or standards in the cabinet sides, aligning with your planned shelf spacing. Tap in securely with a mallet.

Mount Shelves and Adjust Fit

Set each shelf in place on the supports. Check for level and make any adjustments. Add shelf edge trim or end caps for a finished look.

Glass Shelving Options for Metal Cabinets

Glass shelves provide an elegant touch and easily allow you to see stored contents. Here are two good glass shelf options:

Glass Cut to Size

Have plain glass cut at a hardware store or glass shop to the measurements of your cabinet shelving area. Finish the edges for safety. Use glass shelf clips or brackets within the cabinet to support the glass.

Buy Modular Glass Shelves

Many hardware stores sell interlocking modular glass shelving units that are adjustable. The glass shelves fit into metal side tracks secured inside the cabinet. This allows you to reposition or add shelves easily.

When installing glass shelving in a metal cabinet, ensure the tracks or hardware provide adequate support underneath for the glass. Heavier items may require additional bracing. Also take care not to bump or scratch the surfaces of glass shelves.

Using Metal for Shelves in Metal Cabinets

Matching metal shelves with your metal cabinets can give a cohesive, sleek look. Here are tips for metal shelves:

• Use galvanized steel or aluminum for corrosion resistance.
• Match the thickness and finish of the cabinet metal.
• Cut metal to size with tin snips or a hacksaw for a perfect fit.
• File or sand edges smooth so they don’t snag contents.
• Powder coating or spray painting metal provides protection and color.
• Use threaded shelf standards or supports rated to hold metal.
• Consider adding rubber shelf liners to prevent rattling and slipping.
• Avoid overloading metal shelves and distribute weight evenly.

Metal shelves are durable and easy to clean for intense storage needs. Just ensure the horizontal supports and backings are sturdy enough to handle the shelf weight.

Installing Shelves in Existing Cabinets

For pre-assembled metal cabinets, you can still install custom shelves with some modifications. Here are tips for existing cabinets:

• Remove any existing shelving to open up the interior space.
• Measure carefully to work around any hardware or fasteners inside the cabinet.
• Look for solid vertical surfaces along the cabinet sides or back panel to anchor standards for shelves.
• Attach standards using machine screws and nuts through pre-drilled holes if needed.
• Use threaded insert nuts if you need to create new mounting holes for standards.
• Consider cabinet face-frame mounted brackets if side mounting is not possible.

Take care not to damage the cabinet when drilling new holes or inserting hardware for shelves. With careful planning and hardware selection, your custom shelves can still work in an assembled cabinet.

Safety Tips When Installing Shelves

When mounting any shelving, following basic safety precautions will help ensure the shelves are secure and prevent accidents:

• Make sure shelves are level and well-supported on both ends by hardware.
• Evenly distribute stored load; avoid placing all heavy objects on one area.
• Check for sharp shelf corners or edges and cover with edge banding if needed.
• Ensure shelving is secure and will not pull out from wall fasteners if used.
• Mounted shelves higher than 5 feet should be installed into wall studs for security.
• If cabinets may get bumped or leaned on, use shelf locking clips or pins.
• Follow all manufacturer instructions for recommended load capacity per shelf.
• Consider earthquake safety straps or child-proofing if needed.

FAQs About Installing Shelves in Metal Cabinets

What type of screws should be used to mount the shelf standards?

Use machine screws or wood screws in cabinets with no backing. For metal cabinets with a wood back panel, wood screws attach standards securely.

What is the best way to mount shelves if there are no standards?

Individual floating shelves attached to the cabinet sides with L-brackets can work. Face-frame mounted clips are another option if the cabinet has a face frame.

How much weight can shelves hold?

Wood shelves 3/4” thick can hold about 20-30 lbs per square foot safely. Thinner wood or glass shelving reduces capacity. Check manufacturer specs and do not overload shelves.

Should I finish shelves before or after installation?

Finishing shelves beforehand is best so that all sides/edges get properly sealed. Be careful not to damage the finish when mounting them into the cabinets.

What do I do if shelves are a loose fit?

Use small rubber pads or felt strips to give shelves a tighter fit. Or attach a thin trim piece to edges to increase thickness. Just avoid making shelves so tight they cannot be removed.

How much space should I allow between shelves vertically?

Leave at least 3-4 inches of clearance between shelves. More for very tall items. Scale spacing based on your cabinet height and what will be stored.

Should I secure shelves to the cabinet with screws?

If shelves fit snugly on ledges or standards, securing with screws is not necessary. Screws are recommended for floating shelves or metal cabinets to prevent slipping.

Conclusion

Installing custom shelves is an easy DIY project that can maximize your metal cabinet storage. Carefully measure your cabinet space, choose materials and finishes that suit your needs, and follow safety precautions for secure shelves.

Wood, glass, or metal shelves can all work well to equip your metal cabinets with optimal, customized storage. Enjoy the benefits of being able to fully utilize vertical space and organize cabinets precisely for your needs. Just be sure to properly support the shelves within the cabinet for durability and security.

With a few basic tools and materials, you can build and mount great-looking shelves sized perfectly for your metal cabinets. The end result will be storage that looks great while offering accessible, uncluttered space to keep items organized.