Who Can Install My New Age Metal Garage Cabinets?

Installing new metal garage cabinets can transform your garage into an organized, functional space. However, finding the right person for the installation is key to ensuring the job is done properly. Here is an in-depth look at who can install metal garage cabinets and how to find the best installer for your needs.

What to Look for in a Metal Garage Cabinet Installer

When hiring someone to install your new metal garage cabinets, there are certain qualifications and skills to look for.

Formal Training and Certification

Choose an installer who has received formal training and certification in cabinet installation. They should have knowledge of the entire process from layout planning to securing cabinets safely on walls. Many home improvement stores offer training courses. Certifications from reputable organizations demonstrate contractors’ qualifications.

Experience with Metal Garage Cabinets

Look for installers who have significant hands-on experience specifically installing metal garage cabinetry. The installation process differs from standard kitchen cabinets, given the weight and industrial-grade materials. Ask about years in the field and number of similar projects completed.

Familiarity with Garage Spaces

Opt for installers who understand garage spaces and requirements. They should assess the size and layout, utilities, temperature fluctuations, and typical garage uses. This enables them to plan the cabinet installation for optimal durability and functionality.

Insured and Licensed

Only consider insured and licensed contractors for cabinet installations. Licenses prove they are legitimate, registered businesses that meet state and local criteria. Insurance protects you in case of damages or injuries occurring onsite. Ask for proof of both.

Strong References

Quality installers should be able to provide references from recent customers. Follow up with references to confirm they complete high-quality work and have a good track record with metal garage cabinets. Satisfied customers indicate expertise.

Types of Professionals Who Can Install Metal Garage Cabinets

There are a few types of professionals who typically handle metal garage cabinet installation projects:

Garage Organization Companies

Companies specializing in garage organization often install cabinets as part of their services. They have extensive training and expertise working specifically in garage spaces. This niche focus makes them ideal for safely and efficiently installing metal garage cabinetry.

Handymen

Professionally trained handymen comfortable with minor construction, carpentry, and installation projects can often install garage cabinets properly. Make sure they have expertise beyond just assembling ready-to-install cabinets from big box stores.

Contractors

General contractors or carpenters can install garage cabinets, given their construction skillsets. Look for those experienced with garage spaces versus only kitchen cabinetry. They must understand garage environmental factors and securing cabinets properly to walls.

Cabinet Retailers

Some metal garage cabinet brands offer professional installation as an added service upon purchase. This ensures proper assembly and fitting within your unique garage space. Installers have product expertise.

Key Steps in the Metal Garage Cabinet Installation Process

Installing metal garage cabinets requires careful planning and execution across these key steps:

Layout Design

Layout is crucial, determining cabinet configuration, sizing, and placement based on garage space and needs. Professional installers can create optimal layouts following proper codes and weight distribution.

Securing to Walls

Metal garage cabinets require secure anchoring to walls, given their weight. Installers must attach mounting rails and hardware properly to studs, using the right types of anchors for the wall material.

Leveling and Alignment

Precise leveling and alignment ensures cabinets hang evenly and doors/drawers function properly. Installers use shims and spacers to adjust cabinets during the mounting process.

Assembly

Depending on the products purchased, installers may need to assemble cabinet boxes, shelves, and other components. Following instructions ensures sturdy construction.

Door Adjustments

Adjusting cabinet doors and drawers is often needed after installation to ensure proper alignment and gap spacing. Installers can fine-tune hinges and slides.

Finishing Touches

Installers complete the process by adding final details like trim pieces, caulking gaps, adding final fasteners, inspecting functionality, and cleaning up the work area.

Questions to Ask Potential Metal Garage Cabinet Installers

When evaluating installers, ask these key questions to determine their expertise:

• How many years of experience do you have installing metal garage cabinets specifically?
• Are you formally trained and certified in cabinet installation?
• Are you insured and licensed? (Ask for proof)
• Do you provide references from recent garage cabinet installation jobs?
• Are you familiar with the unique requirements and considerations for garage spaces?
• What kinds of preparation work do you do before installation?
• How do you ensure cabinets are properly secured and can handle weight?
• How do you ensure everything is level, plumb, and aligned?
• Do you handle cabinet adjustments after installation if needed?
• Do you provide a warranty on installation work? For how long?

Where to Find Quality Metal Garage Cabinet Installers

Use these methods to find fully-vetted professionals for your garage cabinet installation:

• Utilize installer networks from cabinet retailers – Many sellers of metal garage cabinets maintain networks of qualified installers to recommend. These individuals have been pre-screened and have experience with those products.
• Search industry directories – Trade association websites like NARI and Angie’s List contain member directories searchable by specialty, location, and qualifications. Searches for terms like “garage organization” yield options.
• Ask at home improvement stores – Stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot often have contacts for local contractors and handymen they work with regularly who offer quality services. Ask for referrals.
• Check reviews online – Search “garage cabinet installation [your city]” and look through Google results and reviews. Cross-reference Angie’s List, BBB, and social media.
• Ask neighbors for referrals – Talk to neighbors who have had garage cabinets installed recently. Referrals from satisfied customers carry weight.

No matter where you search, always vet installers thoroughly. Confirm licenses, insurance, training, and experience before hiring. Talk with references and read online reviews. Take these steps to find the best person for the job.

How Much Does Metal Garage Cabinet Installation Cost?

Garage cabinet installation costs range from $40 to $80 per hour on average. The total cost depends on:

• Scope of the project – More cabinets and complex layouts take more time.
• Accessibility of the space – Difficult garages drive up the price.
• Type of mounting required – E.g. floating cabinets cost more than floor-anchored.
• Your location – Labor rates vary regionally. Urban areas cost more.
• Product costs – Premium cabinetry has a higher install price.

For a more affordable DIY garage cabinet installation, expect to pay:

• Cabinets – $100 to $1000 each
• Mounting rails – $20 to $30 per cabinet
• Tools – $150 for basic kit
• Misc. materials – $20 to $50

In general, pro installation costs significantly more but gives you expertise, proper mounting, adjustments, warranties, and peace of mind.

DIY vs Professional Installation of Metal Garage Cabinets: Pros and Cons

You can either DIY your metal garage cabinet installation or hire a professional. Consider these pros and cons of each approach:

DIY Installation

Pros

• Less expensive upfront
• Satisfaction of doing it yourself

Cons

• Requires construction skills and tools
• Challenging to mount cabinets properly alone
• No expertise guiding layout and workflow
• No adjustments or warranties after finishing

Professional Installation

Pros

• Expert planning for optimal layout
• Proper mounting and securing of cabinets
• Adjustments to doors/drawers after install
• Licensed and insured for safety
• Warranties and guarantees

Cons

• More expensive upfront cost
• Need to coordinate contractor schedule

Conclusion

Installing metal garage cabinets allows you to make the most of your garage space with durable, optimized storage. Hiring professional installers ensures your new cabinets are mounted safely and properly to last for years of everyday use. Look for fully trained garage organization contractors to handle the installation from layout to final adjustments. With the right installer secured, you can enjoy organized storage and upgraded garage function.

Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Metal Garage Cabinets

Who is best qualified to install metal garage cabinets?

Your best option is a professional garage organizer or contractor who specializes in garage storage systems and cabinetry installation. They have the right mix of skills, training, and hands-on experience.

What preparation work needs to be done before cabinet installation?

The installer should examine the garage space and submit a layout plan first. They also need to confirm sufficient reinforcement in the walls, installation of mounting rails, and all necessary supplies ready.

What mounting method works best for metal garage cabinets?

Fully securing the cabinets by mounting them into the wall studs generally provides the strongest, safest installation. Floating cabinets only anchored to drywall often can’t handle heavier loads.

How are the cabinets aligned during installation?

Installers use shims, spacers, and adjustable mounting rails to precisely align cabinets side-by-side and relative to the floor and ceiling. This ensures they sit flush and are even.

Why are door and drawer adjustments often needed?

The cabinet installation process can slightly shift doors and drawers out of alignment from their boxes. Installers adjust hinges and slides after mounting to realign everything properly.

When should I hire a garage cabinet installer versus doing it myself?

If you lack construction skills and specialized tools, professional installation is best to ensure proper mounting, safety, adjustments, warranties, and optimal layout. DIY is okay for simpler projects.