Metal kitchen cabinets are a popular option for many homeowners due to their durability, stylish appearance, and wide range of customization options. If you’re considering metal cabinets for your kitchen remodel or new construction project, you may be wondering where you can purchase quality metal cabinets to fit your budget and style. This comprehensive guide will overview the best places to shop for metal kitchen cabinets, what to look for when buying metal cabinets, price ranges, and professional installation options.

Overview of Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Before diving into where to buy metal kitchen cabinets, let’s overview what exactly metal kitchen cabinets are and their key characteristics.

Metal kitchen cabinets are made from various types of metal material rather than traditional wood. Some of the most common metals used for kitchen cabinets include:

• Stainless steel
• Aluminum
• Galvanized steel
• Copper

Metal is valued in kitchen cabinetry for its:

• Strength and durability – Metal is very strong and withstands wear and tear well over time. Metal cabinets are highly resistant to warping, cracking, and denting.
• Resistance to water damage – Metal does not corrode or deteriorate when exposed to leaks, spills, and humidity like wood can. This makes it great for kitchens.
• Fire resistance – Metal is non-combustible and can hold up well in a kitchen fire.
• Pest/insect resistance – Insects cannot penetrate or bore holes into metal like they can with wood cabinets.
• Long-lasting finish – The colored finish on metal cabinets retains its look much longer than traditional wood stains and paints.
• Easy to clean – Metal cabinet surfaces can be cleaned easily without worry of damage.
• Modern aesthetic – Metal cabinets offer a sleek, contemporary look well-suited to modern kitchen designs. Brushed metal textures are very popular.
• Customization – Metal cabinets can be ordered with specialized designs, colors, hardware, and organizational features.

While very durable, metal cabinets do have some downsides to consider:

• Higher cost – Metal cabinets are typically more expensive upfront than wood cabinets.
• Fingerprints and smudges – Metal shows fingerprints and dirt more easily than other materials.
• Noise – Metal doors and drawers can make more noise when opened and closed than wood or plastic.
• Heat/cold conduction – Metal conducts hot and cold temperatures more readily than other materials.

With the pros and cons in mind, let’s look at the best places to shop for metal kitchen cabinets suited to your budget and needs.

Metal Kitchen Cabinet Retailers

There are many options for purchasing metal kitchen cabinets beyond just big box home improvement stores. Here are the top retailers selling quality metal kitchen cabinets across a range of styles and prices:

Big Box Stores

Stores like Home Depot and Lowes offer a small selection of mass-market metal cabinets among their kitchen offerings:

• Benefits – Convenience of one-stop shopping, ability to see products in person, discounted prices on bundled kitchen packages.
• Downsides – Limited metal cabinet selection focused on affordable models, may need separate countertop purchase, no customization.
• Prices – $200 – $1000 range per cabinet box.

Home Furniture Stores

Retailers like Ashley Furniture, IKEA, and more have a variety of metal storage solutions for the kitchen beyond just cabinets:

• Benefits – Wide range of style choices from modern to industrial. Lots of coordinating metal furniture and decor.
• Downsides – Less focus specifically on kitchen cabinetry. Limited selection of full cabinetry suites.
• Prices – $500 – $2000 range per cabinet box.

Metal Cabinet Specialty Companies

Companies like Top Knobs, Timberline, and Diamond Cabinets specialize specifically in metal cabinetry:

• Benefits – Wide range of metal kitchen cabinet choices. Custom metal colors and hardware available. Matching appliances.
• Downsides – Only sell metal options, no alternate materials. Primarily online only.
• Prices – $800 – $5000+ range per cabinet box.

Custom Cabinet Makers

Local cabinet builders can offer one-off custom metal cabinets for your unique kitchen design:

• Benefits – Completely customized metal cabinets. Integrated storage solutions. Matching metal countertops.
• Downsides – Very high cost. Long lead times. Contractors may have limited metalworking capacity.
• Prices – $2000 – $10,000+ range per cabinet box.

What to Look for When Buying Metal Kitchen Cabinets

With many metal kitchen cabinet options available, it’s important to know what to evaluate when making your purchase:

Cabinet Box Construction

The cabinet box itself, not just the visible exterior, should be made from high quality thick metal. Avoid options with interior wood frameworks. Popular metals like stainless steel at a minimum 18 gauge thickness offer durability.

Door Construction

Doors should integrate soft-close hinges and high quality multi-layer finishes that resist scratches, dents, and corrosion. Wood veneer, acrylic, or metal door panel options are available.

Drawer Construction

Look for full extension, soft-close drawer boxes and guides made from durable materials like stainless steel. Avoid plastic drawer components in metal cabinetry.

Hardware

Opt for durable, matching metal hardware in brushed nickel, chrome, copper, or black finishes. Avoid visible plastic or painted hardware that can chip over time.

Integrated Organizational Features

Look for roll-out trays, pull-out shelves, corner lazy susans, spice racks, pot trays, and other specialized storage solutions built into the cabinet design.

Countertops

Seek metal cabinets that integrate well with metal countertops in stainless, copper, or other colors to achieve a cohesive look.

Brand Reputation & Warranty

Choose established brands that offer at least 1-year warranties on metal cabinetry purchases to protect your investment. Be wary of brands without a track record.

Typical Metal Kitchen Cabinet Costs

Metal kitchen cabinets range dramatically in cost depending on the materials used, construction quality, customization, integrated features, and more. Here are some typical price ranges:

• Basic pre-fabricated metal cabinets – $100 – $300 per box
• Mid-range metal cabinets – $400 – $900 per box
• High-end metal cabinets – $1000 – $4000 per box
• Custom handcrafted metal cabinets – $5000+ per box

Expect to spend $8000+ for a full suite of metal cabinets in a small to mid-sized kitchen. Unique finishes like zinc or copper can drive prices much higher.

Factor in additional costs for professional installation, delivery, matching countertops and backsplashes, and hardware. However, quality metal cabinets are a long-term investment that can last decades with proper care.

Hiring Professional Installation

Given their weight and precision construction, metal kitchen cabinets require professional installation for best results vs DIY. Professional cabinet installers have experience:

• Measuring – Taking detailed site measurements for ordering cabinets customized to your space.
• Delivery Coordination – Unloading, inspecting, and staging heavy metal cabinets.
• Installation – Securing cabinets level and plumb on walls and flooring.
• Tweaks and Testing – Adjusting doors and drawers so they open smoothly and close softly.
• Finishing Touches – Applying trim, crown molding, and hardware perfectly.

Reputable cabinet showrooms and metal cabinet brands can recommend professional installers they partner with. General contractors and carpenters also often provide cabinet installation services.

Plan for professional metal cabinet installation costs of 10-25%+ on top of your cabinet purchase prices. The investment helps ensure your cabinets function and look beautiful long term.

Where to Buy Metal Kitchen Cabinets – Key Takeaways

• For small project needs, check big box stores first for discounted prices on their affordable stock metal cabinet offerings and bundled promotions.
• If seeking more metal style options with custom features, browse home furniture stores and dedicated metal cabinetry brands online or in showrooms.
• For completely custom metal cabinets tailored to your kitchen’s unique layout and design, contact specialty metalworking cabinet builders and request quotes for your project.
• Consider hiring professional installers experienced with the unique needs of metal cabinetry for optimal performance and appearance.
• Quality metal cabinets are a pricey investment upfront but provide unparalleled durability and longevity over time with proper care and maintenance.

Types of Metal Used for Kitchen Cabinets

If you’ve decided that metal kitchen cabinets are the right choice for your home, your next decision is choosing what metal material best suits your needs. Cabinet makers today use a variety of metals and finishes to construct durable, attractive cabinets for the kitchen. Let’s overview some of the most popular metals utilized and the pros and cons of each option.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is arguably the most popular choice for metal kitchen cabinets today. Stainless offers a beautiful modern, industrial look.

Pros

• Extremely durable and resistant to dents, scratches
• Easy to clean and sanitize
• Water and rust resistant
• Classic brushed metal aesthetic

Cons

• Higher cost than other metals
• Shows fingerprints
• Can be noisy when closing doors and drawers

Stainless steel provides the ultimate in resilience for a busy kitchen. Brushed stainless finishes camouflage fingerprints well compared to glossy varieties. Stainless steel cabinets range from $$$ – $$$$$.

Aluminum

Aluminum is another common metal used for the construction of kitchen cabinets. It’s lighter than stainless steel while still durable.

Pros

• Resistant to corrosion
• Very lightweight
• Costs less than stainless steel
• Available in a wide range of color finishes

Cons

• Softer/more prone to denting than steel
• Shows scratches more readily
• Less thermal conductivity

Aluminum allows great flexibility in finishes while maintaining strength. Modern colored aluminum cabinets complement appliances well. Aluminum cabinets cost $ – $$$.

Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel has a zinc coating applied to it for increased rust resistance. It offers a unique weathered, antique look.

Pros

• Inexpensive compared to stainless or aluminum
• Distressed, vintage appearance
• Withstands humidity well

Cons

• Not as hard and damage-resistant as stainless
• Visible fingerprints
• Limited color options beyond grey zinc

Galvanized steel brings an edgy, industrial feel perfect for urban, rustic, or farmhouse kitchens. Galvanized steel cabinet costs range from $ – $$.

Copper

Copper cabinetry provides an ultra premium, custom feel with its eye-catching, warm reddish-orange color.

Pros

• Beautiful natural patina finish
• Antimicrobial properties
• Matches copper cookware aesthetically
• Suitable for traditional to modern kitchens

Cons

• Expensive
• Develops fingerprints and oxidation over time
• Challenging installation and maintenance

For making a dramatic design statement, natural solid copper cabinets deliver stunning visual appeal. Copper cabinets cost $$$$ – $$$$$$.

Key Considerations

When selecting a metal type for your kitchen cabinets, keep the following considerations in mind:

• Usage – Is this a busy kitchen seeing heavy usage? Opt for the most resilient stainless steel or aluminum.
• Aesthetics – Do you desire a certain finish look like galvanized grey or copper? Limit options accordingly.
• Price – What’s your overall cabinet budget? Set a realistic metal material price range.
• Maintenance – Understand the care required for touches, oxidation removal, etc based on metal.

Choosing the right metal sets you up for long-lasting, high performing kitchen cabinets tailored to your cooking needs and design vision.

Popular Styles of Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Beyond just the metal type, there are a variety of style options when selecting metal kitchen cabinets. Metal cabinetry is an especially great choice for achieving modern, contemporary kitchen designs. But metal can also be styled with creative textures and finishes to work in traditional spaces as well. Let’s overview some of the most popular metal kitchen cabinet styles trends.

Modern Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Clean lines, minimalist features, and bold metallic finishes characterize modern metal kitchen cabinets:

Streamlined Doors

Plain slab style doors in brushed metal tones without elaborate detailing deliver a simple, uncluttered look. Recessed finger pulls maintain the streamlined appearance.

Industrial Edge

Exposed metal welding joins, visible rivets, and mixed metal accents bring and edgy, industrial vibe to modern cabinets.

Creative Hardware

Modern metal cabinets allow for fun creativity with unique modern hardware choices like geometric knobs and handles in contrasting finishes.

Integrated Tech

Touch latch doors, LED interior lighting, and wireless charging stations build tech integration into modern metal cabinetry.

Farmhouse Style Metal Cabinets

The farmhouse style emphasizes natural, traditional materials but metal can work too using these approaches:

Blackened Finishes

Wrought iron-inspired blackened finishes paired with visible hammer marks or rivets near seams give metal cabinets a timeworn, handcrafted feel perfect for farmhouse spaces.

Distressed Metals

Galvanized steel or colored aluminum deliberately distressed with nicks, dents, and a weathered patina amp up the rustic farmhouse vibe in metal cabinets.

Cast Iron Hardware

Classic cast iron pulls and handles with an aged, blackened finish complement farmhouse metal cabinets beautifully.

Warm Copper Tones

Naturally patinated copper cabinets provide a wonderful contrasting warmth to worn farmhouse wood floors and butcher block countertops.

Industrial Metal Cabinets

For full-on urban loft and industrial interior design, metal cabinets take center stage:

Rivet & Welded Accents

Highlight visible metal welding seams and lines of large rivets joining cabinet components to emphasize the hand worked craftsmanship.

Bold Colors

Vibrant colors like fire engine red, brilliant turquoise, and metallic gold bring an edgy, artsy element to industrial metal cabinets.

Mixed Textures and Finishes

Combining glossy and matte or brushed finishes along with metal types adds visual interest. Integrate reclaimed wood or concrete elements.

Retro Hardware

Vintage-inspired hardware like exposed pipes, latches, and wire mesh screen doors inject retro industrial flair.

The ideal metal cabinet style comes down to personal tastes and the overall kitchen design theme. Fortunately metal is incredibly versatile to achieve nearly any look you desire.

Pros & Cons of Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Are metal kitchen cabinets right for your home? While very popular for their distinctive appearance and resilience, metal cabinets aren’t necessarily ideal for every situation. If you’re weighing the decision between metal versus wood or thermoplastic cabinetry, understanding the key pros and cons of metal helps make the best choice.

Pros of Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Durability – Metal cabinets are extremely scratch, dent, and damage resistant for long-lasting use. They also won’t crack, warp, or peel like wood or plastic.

Easy Cleaning – Smooth non-porous metal surfaces clean up easily by just wiping with a cloth and warm water, even for grease.

Resilience – Metal handles heat, humidity, and potential water leaks well. Cabinets won’t deteriorate or mold.

Stylish Appearance – Brushed metal textures and tones provide modern appeal not achievable with other cabinet materials.

Customization – Metal cabinets offer nearly endless customization from colors to hardware so you can create a truly unique look.

Resale Value – Quality metal cabinets maintain their value and appeal vs cheaply made cabinets when it comes time to sell your home.

Cons of Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Higher Upfront Cost – Metal cabinets typically cost significantly more than entry-level thermoplastic or DIY wood cabinets.

Fingerprinting – Glossy and darker metal finishes highlight fingerprints and require frequent wiping down to keep pristine.

Noise – Metal cabinet doors and drawers can be noisy when opening and closing. Ideally choose options with soft-close hinges.

Cold Feel – Metal transmits hot and cold readily. Interior shelving may need lining to prevent temperature transfer to contents.

Difficult DIY – Metal cabinets typically require hiring professional installers for proper support and alignment.

Limited Styles – Metal works best for sleek modern or industrial kitchen aesthetics. Traditional decorative door cabinets are rare.

For many homeowners, the upscale, hardy, and easy-care benefits of metal outweigh the higher costs. But consider how metal aligns with your specific kitchen needs.

Where to Buy Affordable Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Metal kitchen cabinets lend a modern, designer look to any kitchen. However, they can cost significantly more than standard wooden cabinets. If working with a limited budget, you may be wondering where you can find affordable metal cabinets without sacrificing quality and appearance. Let’s overview top sources for value-priced metal kitchen cabinets.

Big Box Stores

Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s offer a budget-friendly selection of metal cabinets alongside standard wood varieties:

• Stock full cabinet boxes around $150 – $300 range
• Limited colors like white, black, silver
• Prefab construction with plastic interior
• Discount bundled packages available

Discounters

Discount furniture and building supply retailers sell metal cabinets at lower price points:

• Cabinet boxes starting under $100
• Focus on economy metals like aluminum
• Often small wall cabinet or base drawer sizes only
• Very limited color and size options

Restaurant Supply

Commercial restaurant kitchen supply outlets can offer inexpensive but durable stainless steel cabinets:

• Made from commercial-grade 18