What Cost More – Cabinets or Metal Shelving?

Cabinets and metal shelving are two popular storage solutions for homes and businesses. When choosing between the two, cost is often a major deciding factor. In most cases, metal shelving is the more affordable option compared to cabinets. However, there are some factors to consider that can impact the overall cost comparison.

Cost Factors for Cabinets

Cabinets are generally more expensive than basic metal shelving units. Some key factors that contribute to the higher cost of cabinets include:

Materials

Cabinets are typically constructed from higher quality materials like wood, laminate, or thermofoil. Hardwood cabinets are the most expensive option. The material costs alone for solid wood or plywood cabinets often exceed the total cost of basic metal shelves.

Construction

The manufacturing process for cabinets is more extensive, involving cutting, joining, finishing, and installation of multiple components. More labor and time is required compared to basic shelving units. Custom or semi-custom cabinets are costlier than stock or RTA (ready-to-assemble) options.

Features

Cabinets include features like doors, drawers, adjustable shelves, and hardware. These add functionality but also cost. Metal shelving is simply an open framework without storage options inside each unit.

Finishings

Cabinets can be stained, painted, or laminated to match a desired interior decor. These finishing steps add to the overall fabrication costs. Metal shelves typically have a simple powder coated finish in neutral colors.

Installation

Most cabinets need professional installation which is an added service cost. Freestanding metal shelves can generally be installed DIY style.

Cost Factors for Metal Shelving

Metal shelving is economical compared to cabinets, but there are still factors that cause pricing variances:

Gauge/Thickness

Thicker steel gauges and heavy duty shelving is more durable and costlier than light duty options. Industrial grade shelving costs more than basic household units.

Size

The overall size and load capacity impact the price. Larger shelving units or systems cost more than smaller individual units.

Portability

Stationary shelving is typically less expensive than mobile units on casters which provide flexibility.

Adjustability

Models with height/width adjustability allow for some customization but generally cost more than fixed units.

Accessories

Add-ons like bins, drawers, and locking cabinets for metal shelves add convenience at an extra cost.

Brand

Reputable commercial brands like Metro and Intermetro have higher prices than generic discount brands.

Material

Stainless steel and aluminum shelves are more corrosion resistant but also pricier than powder coated steel.

Cost Comparison

Taking the various factors above into account, some general cost comparisons can be made between basic storage cabinets and standard metal shelving units:

• A base cabinet with two doors/one shelf can range from $150-300. The same storage capacity in a basic wire shelving unit would cost approximately $40-75.
• A two door wall cabinet runs $200-400. A wall mounted metal shelf of the same size is $60-100.
• A stainless steel commercial baker’s rack (6-8 shelves) costs $300-500. A 6-8 shelf wooden pantry cabinet can cost anywhere from $500-1500.
• Chrome wire closet shelving systems for a reach-in closet run $80-150. Custom closet cabinets for the same space could be $3000-5000.

The cost difference is especially noticeable when outfitting large spaces like warehouses, kitchens, garages, and storage rooms. Overall, metal shelving provides more economical storage. But for built-in permanence and higher aesthetics, cabinets remain a popular choice if budget allows.

When to Choose Cabinets Over Shelving

Despite the higher price, cabinets are still a preferred choice in many situations:

• Built-in kitchen cabinetry creates a seamless finished look. Mixing cabinets and open shelves looks disjointed.
• Bathrooms benefit from the clean look of vanities and linen cabinets. Shelves appear cluttered and messy.
• Cabinet doors allow hiding away clutter and create a tidier appearance. Open shelves show everything.
• Adjustable shelves, specialized storage fittings, and pull-out options provide optimized space and access within cabinet boxes.
• Glass doors on wall cabinets effectively display collectibles and attractive dishware.
• Cabinets come in a wide range of styles from modern to country. Shelving looks strictly utilitarian.
• Staining or painting cabinets allows matching other rooms. Shelves are limited in color/finish options.
• Cabinets muffle noise from appliances and tools stored inside. Open metal shelves reflect more noise.
• Enclosed cabinets provide security and child-safety if storing dangerous or fragile items.

When to Choose Metal Shelving Over Cabinets

In other situations, the lower cost and flexibility of metal shelves makes them the better choice:

• Shelving maximizes storage density in tight spaces. More adjustable shelves can be fit compared to fixed cabinet heights.
• Commercial, industrial and utility settings value inexpensive shelving over built-ins.
• Shelves conveniently display retail inventory and parts. Cabinet doors require frequent opening/closing.
• Open metal units allow for easy cleaning access to stored items. Cabinets collect more dust and dirt inside.
• Mobile shelving on casters provides reconfigurable flexibility. Cabinets are fixed in place once installed.
• Shelving creates better ventilation for appliances like routers, paints, cleaners etc. Cabinet enclosures trap fumes.
• DIYers often lack the skill for cabinet building. Off-the-shelf shelving is simple to put together.
• Renters don’t want permanent cabinets. Freestanding shelves are ideal short term storage.
• Shelving works well in detached outdoor sheds and garages vulnerable to moisture damage.

Bottom Line

When cost is the foremost factor, metal shelves provide the most economic storage solution in the majority of situations. But for many homeowners, the extra investment in cabinets pays dividends in aesthetics, functionality and added value to living spaces. Consider how shelving or cabinets best meet the long term needs for the intended storage area. Installation costs, ability to DIY, and desired lifespan should also factor into any comparison of the two options. With some planning and research, it’s possible to find the right balance of shelving and cabinets tailored to both the space and budget available.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are custom built cabinets more expensive than prefabricated cabinetry?

A: Yes, custom cabinets generally cost 50-100% more than stock or RTA cabinetry. The precise construction and installation of custom cabinets requires greater time, material, and labor costs.

Q: Does the type of material impact the cost of shelving?

A: Shelving material plays a big role in price. Chrome wire is the most affordable. Wood or stainless steel costs more. Industrial grade steel shelving is pricier than household varieties.

Q: Can cabinets be DIYed less expensively than buying pre-assembled?

A: If you have the skillset, DIY cabinets from scratch materials may cost 20-30% less than prefab. However DIY takes extensive time and tools. Quality may also suffer if not an expert.

Q: Will open shelving look bad or get dusty in a kitchen?

A: Open shelving does require diligent cleaning. Minimize dust and grease splatter by not storing commonly used items. Use for display or infrequent access items.

Q: Can metal shelves hold heavy weight without buckling?

A: Industrial grade steel shelving with additional cross-braces can support 500-1000 lbs per shelf evenly distributed. Consumer grade may only hold 50-100 lbs. Check weight ratings.

Conclusion

When evaluating the costs for any storage system, it’s wise to look at long term return on investment and functionality gained, not just initial price. Higher quality solutions made of durable materials often justify added expense over the years of use. But overspending on unnecessary features or finishes makes little sense if budget is tight. Finding the right balance between needs and affordability requires honest assessment of each storage space. In many circumstances, shelving successfully provides budget friendly utility while cabinets lend built-in sophistication. Considering all the options and cost factors before deciding on cabinets, shelving or a combination of both ultimately leads to smart, practical storage at any budget level.