Installing shelves inside a metal cabinet can provide extra storage and organization in areas like garages, pantries, closets, and more. With some planning and the right materials, it’s easy to add functional shelving that customizes the space. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to put shelves inside a metal cabinet.

Choose the Shelf Type

There are a few options when selecting shelves for a metal cabinet:

Metal Shelving

• Sturdy, long-lasting material that matches metal cabinets
• Available in different sizes and configurations
• Easy to cut to fit custom dimensions
• Typically need to be secured with brackets

Wood Shelving

• Provides an attractive, finished look
• Lighter weight than metal
• Requires drilling pilot holes for shelf supports
• Sealing/staining recommended for moisture protection

Glass Shelving

• Creates an open, visible display
• More delicate material that requires careful handling
• Often held in place with shelf pins or clips
• Provides a clean, sleek appearance

Consider the planned use of the cabinet, weight to be held, and desired aesthetic when deciding on metal, wood, glass, or other shelf materials.

Take Measurements

Carefully measure both the interior dimensions of the cabinet and the shelves to ensure a proper fit. Key measurements needed:

• Height – Measure from floor to ceiling inside cabinet. Account for any lip or overhang on a shelf when determining fit.
• Width and depth – Interior width and depth of cabinet. Make sure shelf is not too wide or deep.
• Shelf thickness – Thickness of the shelves being installed. This impacts clearance.

For a secure hold, shelves should be just slightly narrower than the cabinet width. Having measurements ahead of time prevents frustrations and returns.

Install Shelf Standards

Many metal shelves use standards – long metal strips with holes for shelf brackets. Measure and mark standards for correct placement.

To install standards:

• Position standards vertically using a level. Mark holes.
• Pre-drill holes in cabinet to avoid cracking metal.
• Attach standards to interior cabinet sides using screws.
• Standards may also be welded for permanent attachment.

Standards provide sturdy support and allow shelf height adjustment. Make sure screws or welds are strong enough to hold expected weight.

Add Shelf Brackets

Shelf brackets connect the standards to the shelves themselves.

To add brackets:

• Select appropriate load capacity and size.
• Insert shelf bracket hooks into holes in standard.
• Position at desired shelf height.
• Tighten bracket to lock in place.

Distribute weight by placing brackets evenly spaced below shelves. For longer shelves, use a bracket at each end plus equidistant supports along the length.

Insert Shelves

The shelves can now be inserted onto the brackets. Verify a secure, level connection.

To insert shelves:

• Tilt shelf to slide into place between standards.
• Rest shelf edges on bracket lips or fingers.
• Make any adjustments to level shelf.
• Add back support lip if needed to prevent sliding.

Take care not to force shelves that don’t quite fit. Trim as needed for proper clearance or use shims to take up extra space.

Finish Cabinet Interior

Apply finishing touches based on the cabinet purpose.

• Add drawer organizer trays for smaller items.
• Install cargo nets to prevent shifting.
• Attach LED motion light strips if interior visibility is low.
• Use contact paper to protect shelves or add grip.
• Adhere cushioned pads on wire shelves for softer storage.

Maximize function by including hooks, bins, baskets and other organizational accessories.

FAQs About Installing Shelves in a Metal Cabinet

What kind of screws should be used to install standards?

Self-tapping screws are recommended when securing standards to a metal cabinet. Pre-drilling the holes will also prevent cracking or deforming the cabinet sides.

What is the best way to measure and cut shelves?

Use a tape measure to measure the exact interior dimensions of the cabinet. Transfer those measurements to mark cuts on the shelf material. Clamps can hold wood steady for cutting. A hacksaw or metal shears cut metal shelves. File any rough edges.

How much weight can cabinet shelves hold?

The weight capacity depends on the shelf and bracket type. Medium duty metal brackets hold around 200-300 lbs per pair. Heavy duty models can handle 500 lbs or more. Always check manufacturer specifications. Reinforce shelves and use multiple brackets for heavier items.

Should you attach shelves to the standards?

Shelves resting on bracket lips is typically secure enough. For added stability, self-tapping screws or rivets can be used to attach the shelf sides to the standards. This prevents sliding or tipping but makes adjusting shelf height harder.

What is the best way to organize a cabinet with shelves?

Consider using clear plastic bins for visibility, turntables for access to items in back, drawer organizers for small parts, and labels for identifying contents. Install dividers or cubbies to separate categories of items. Maximizing vertical space with stacking bins or wall-mounted accessories can double storage capacity.

How can I add lighting inside a cabinet?

Battery operated LED lights, power strips with built-in lighting, and battery packs with remote switches provide easy ways to add lighting. For a permanent solution, low voltage puck lights can be hardwired to an internal power source and switch. Lighting greatly improves visibility.

Conclusion

Installing shelves in a metal cabinet provides a great way to maximize storage potential in a garage, pantry, closet, laundry room, or other space. Following basic steps for measuring, mounting standards, adding brackets, and inserting shelves allows you to create a custom storage solution. Choose shelf material, hardware, and accessories suited to your specific needs and cabinet dimensions. Take care to securely attach all components to safely support the intended contents. A well-organized interior ensures you can easily access all stored items. With some simple tools, materials, and a bit of effort, you can gain functional storage space exactly where you need it.