Metal cabinets are a versatile storage solution for both homes and offices. They are durable, customizable, and available in a wide range of sizes, colors and styles. But with so many retailers to choose from, it can be tricky to find the right store that sells quality metal cabinets to suit your needs. This comprehensive guide covers the top stores that sell metal cabinets, the types available, pricing and key factors to consider when choosing metal cabinetry for your space.

Overview of Metal Cabinets

Metal cabinets provide sturdy and reliable storage while adding an industrial vibe to your decor. Here are some of their key benefits:

• Durability – Made from high-gauge steel or aluminum, metal cabinets are extremely durable and long-lasting. They are dent, rust and peel-resistant.
• Customization – Metal cabinetry is available in a myriad of sizes, colors, finishes and hardware options allowing you to customize to your exact storage needs.
• Versatility – Metal can suit any style from industrial to modern. Cabinets come in utility, storage, medicine, office and garage styles.
• Value – Metal is budget-friendly option compared to wood or laminate cabinetry. You get great quality and longevity per dollar spent.

Types of Metal Cabinets

Before exploring top retailers, it’s helpful to understand the common types of metal cabinets available:

Storage Cabinets

Metal storage cabinets provide closed storage behind doors or in drawers. Popular options include:

• Lateral file cabinets – Used for storing files and paperwork in office settings. Drawers allow easy access.
• Utility cabinets – Freestanding cabinets for garage, laundry room or workshop storage. Shelves and drawers provide open or closed storage.
• Wardrobe cabinets – Tall storage cabinets with doors ideal for anywhere from closets to offices.

Shelving Units

Open shelving metal cabinet units allow you to display contents. Types include:

• Bookcases – Ideal for displaying books, collectibles and accessories.
• Display cases – Glass doors allow you to display valuables while keeping them secure and dust-free.
• Wall mounts – Floating metal shelves that mount directly to the wall. Great for tight spaces.

Specialty Metal Cabinets

Specialized metal cabinetry is designed for particular uses:

• Tool cabinets – For neatly organizing hardware, tools and workshop supplies. Often have deep drawers.
• Medicine cabinets – Designed for bathrooms to store toiletries behind a mirror or regular door.
• Garage cabinets – Rugged cabinets that mount to garage walls to keep automotive supplies organized.
• Lockers – Provides secure storage with individual compartments and often used in schools, gyms or employee areas.

Now that you understand the most common metal cabinet types, let’s look at top retailers selling quality options in today’s market.

Top Retailers of Metal Cabinets

Many big box stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s offer a small selection of stock metal cabinets. However, for the best quality selection consider these retailers:

IKEA

The Swedish furnishing giant offers a vast selection of metal utility cabinets, bookcases, wardrobes and display cases.

Key Features

• Wide range of sizes including tall wardrobe cabinets up to 90″.
• Large selection of colors and finishes like white, stainless steel, black and gray.
• Affordable pricing starting around $50 for bookcases up to $499 for large storage cabinets.
• Online or in-store shopping across USA.
• Options like sliding doors, glass fronts and interior lighting available.

Considerations

• Assembly required for most cabinets.
• Limited customization compared to made-to-order cabinetry.
• Quality and durability varies greatly by price point.

The Container Store

This storage-focused retailer sells a variety of high-quality metal utility and display cabinets.

Key Features

• Large selection of sizes, colors and configurations.
• Durable steel construction and quality door hardware.
• Modular so you can expand storage as needed.
• Prices from $59.99 up to $599.99.
• Fully assembled cabinets.

Considerations

• Mostly utility style with limited specialty options like medicine or wardrobes.
• Pricing at mid to higher end.
• In-store shopping only with locations in 33 states.

Wayfair

The ecommerce giant offers one of the largest online selections of metal cabinets in every style.

Key Features

• Over 500 metal cabinet options.
• Broad selection of specialty cabinets like garage, medicine, display hutches.
• Affordable with prices as low as $50.
• Free shipping on most orders.
• Ability to read customer reviews.

Considerations

• No ability to see in person before purchasing.
• Quality varies greatly so check reviews carefully.
• Limited customization to existing cabinet options only.

Sandusky Lee

This retailer specializes in high-quality metal cabinetry for commercial and industrial use.

Key Features

• Huge selection of metal storage and shelving.
• Very durable construction from 18 to 22 gauge steel.
• Ability to customize dimensions, doors, shelves and hardware.
• Prices from $200 to over $1000 based on size.
• Options like ventilation holes, sloped tops or drawer dividers.

Considerations

• Focus is on utility cabinets so style options are limited.
• Expect commercial grade pricing.
• Primarily online purchasing unless local dealer.
• Assembly required.

KabinetKing

For custom-built metal cabinets, KabinetKing fabricates affordable options with great quality.

Key Features

• Customize size, layout, colors, doors and hardware.
• Choose stainless steel or powder coated finishes.
• Options for interior cabinet lighting or glass fronts.
• Factory pre-assembly so just minor work upon delivery.
• Price depends on size and customization, approximately $150 to $700 per cabinet.

Considerations

• Online purchasing process can be tricky.
• 12-16 week lead time for custom cabinet fabrication.
• Limited style options.

Metal Cabinet Pricing

Budget, mid-range, and luxury options are available when shopping for metal cabinets allowing you invest based on your needs. Here are typical price ranges:

• Budget – $50 to $250 per cabinet or unit. Best for small basic storage.
• Mid-Range – $250 to $500 per cabinet. Provides good durability and style.
• Luxury – $500+. Heavy gauge steel and premium hardware. Commercial quality.
• Custom – $200 to $1000+. Allows custom sizes and configurations.

Other factors impacting price are size, construction quality, style and retailers’ profit margins. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true as it often indicates lower quality.

Choosing the Best Metal Cabinets

With an overview of top retailers and pricing, let’s discuss key factors to choosing the ideal metal cabinets for your space:

Usage

Consider how you will use the cabinetry to determine the best type. Filing cabinets for paperwork, display cases for collectibles, utility cabinets for garage storage, etc. Measure the area to ensure the cabinet dimensions accommodate your intended purpose.

Quality Construction

Look for cabinets made from 16, 18 or 22 gauge steel for maximum durability and dent resistance. Check for strong welded joints. Look for solid steel wraparound hinges that do not just screw into the side.

Style

While metal cabinets skew modern in style, you can find options with more traditional doors or finishes. Choose a style aligned with your existing decor. Glass fronts add style while still allowing you to display items.

Adjustable Shelves

Having multiple adjustable shelves allows you to customize interior storage as your needs change. This provides convenience and flexibility.

Safety Features

Look for rounded corners and edges to prevent cuts and nicks. Have locking mechanisms on doors and drawers for security and peace of mind.

Finishes

Powder coated paint is most durable. Look for metal that is coated on both sides to prevent rusting. Consider stainless steel for a modern look that is easy to clean – albeit shows fingerprints.

Brand Reputation

Read reviews and look for reputable retailers or manufacturers that have a track record of good quality. This helps ensure you get durable products that last.

FAQ About Metal Cabinets

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about purchasing and using metal cabinets:

Are metal cabinets better than wood?

Metal is more durable, dent-resistant and requires less maintenance than wood. The downside is metal looks more industrial. Ultimately it depends on the style you want and how you will use the cabinets.

How do you clean metal cabinets?

Use a mild detergent with warm water and soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. For stainless steel, rub gently in the direction of the grain – not across.

Should I get assembled or ready-to-assemble cabinets?

Assembled cabinets simply need to be placed. But this limits your shipping options. Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets are more affordable and ship easier but require assembly.

How thick of metal should cabinets be?

14 to 16 gauge steel provides a good balance of strength and affordability for residential use. Go with 18 to 22 gauge for commercial applications.

Should I get glass or solid doors?

If concealing contents, solid doors are best. Glass fronts add style and allow you to display items while keeping them dust-free. Tinted glass provides a dark interior while still letting you see contents.

What are metal cabinets made of?

Steel and aluminum are most common. Stainless steel is used for a modern look but has lower durability. Some have galvanized steel interior walls for moisture resistance.

How much weight can metal shelves hold?

Cabinets made from 16 gauge steel can support 20-30 lbs per square foot while heavier duty 11 gauge can hold 35+ lbs per square foot. Refer to specs for max recommended weight capacity.

Conclusion

Metal cabinets offer timeless versatility to add enclosed or open storage to any room. While selections will vary by retailer, you are sure to find a style that suits your space by shopping at leading stores like IKEA, The Container Store, Wayfair or KabinetKing. Take time to carefully evaluate the construction, durability, and sizing of any metal cabinetry you are considering to ensure it fits your storage needs and withstands the test of time. Investing in quality metal cabinets will lead to years of reliable use.

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