Can Garage Cabinets Sit on a Concrete Floor?

Some people say it’s okay to let your garage cabinets sit on a concrete floor, while others believe it’s not a good idea. So what’s the verdict? 

Garage cabinets can sit on a concrete floor if the finished floor can handle at least 400 lbs/ft² (1953 kg/m²). However, you can greatly reduce the risk of moisture or pest damage by elevating them at least 1.5 inches above the floor.

This article will investigate the relationship between garage cabinets and the surface you place them on. It will also explore the pros and cons of having your garage cabinets sit on a concrete floor.

Garage Cabinets Can Sit On a Concrete Floor With No Problem

Concrete is a solid material. It’s so strong that it has been used for industrial applications to create super-strong, easy-to-maintain flooring solutions (source). So, if concrete can support industrial equipment, it can definitely hold the weight of your garage cabinets. 

However, concrete floors are not exactly water-tight. If there’s moisture under the concrete, it can seep into your cabinets and cause problems with mold and mildew. You may even notice rust on your tools and equipment, especially if you live in a humid area.

To prevent moisture from seeping through the concrete, you can install a vapor barrier before installing the cabinets. This will create a barrier between the concrete and the cabinets and prevent moisture damage.

You may also consider choosing a waterproof finish for your concrete floor. Go with an epoxy coating, polyurethane, or an acrylic sealer. These finishes will protect your concrete floor from moisture and stains.

I have also found that installing a dehumidifier in the garage can significantly help control humidity.

Lifting the Garage Cabinets off the Floor Is a Better Idea

Some garage cabinets come with legs that lift the cabinets off the floor. This is a better solution than letting the cabinets sit on the concrete. Here’s why:

• Lifting the cabinets off the floor will protect against mold and rust. Mold is a potential health hazard, and rust could ruin your expensive cabinets.
• Easy installation: You won’t have to worry about vapor barriers or finishes when you lift the cabinets off the floor. Just set them on the legs and secure them in place.
• Adds value to your home: If you ever decide to sell your home, having lifted cabinets will be a bonus as they add value. However, there are a few things to keep in mind if you choose this route. The legs need to be made of sturdy material, like steel or aluminum. Also ensure that the cabinets are level and stable before attaching them to the wall.
• Get a clean and functional look: Raised cabinets look more organized and intentional because you can see the floor under them, making the space look bigger (source).
• Your contents are safe from flood damage: If you live in an area that’s prone to flooding, keeping your garage cabinets lifted off the floor is a smart move. That way, if there’s ever a flood, your belongings will be safe from water damage. However, this will only work if you lift the cabinets above the usual flood level.
• You’ll be able to avoid pests: Pests love dark and humid places. If your garage cabinets are sitting on the floor, there’s a chance that pests will take residence or build their nests there. But if you lift the cabinets off the floor, you can reduce or avoid this problem altogether.
• Your knees and back will thank you: If you’re working in your garage often, lifting the cabinets off the floor is an excellent way to prevent knee and back pain. When you have to bend down to reach something stored in a low cabinet, it can strain your knees and back. This is easily prevented by raised cabinets..
• Easier to clean, less dust: When the cabinets are lifted off the floor, it’s easier to clean under them. This means that there will be less dust in your garage overall to cause any respiratory problems. That, combined with the fact that you won’t have to worry about mold, makes for a safer and healthier garage space.

It’s up to you whether you want to lift the cabinets off the floor or not. However, if you lift them off the floor, ensure you get cabinets with adjustable legs or holes drilled in the bottom. 

How To Level Garage Cabinets

Lifted cabinets only look organized and functional if they’re leveled well, especially since a lot of garages may have angled flooring for drainage purposes. Using cabinets with adjustable legs helps ensure that your cabinets are correctly positioned and not titled in awkward ways.

Here are step-by-step instructions to help you understand how you can level garage cabinets the easy way:

• Use a level tool to find the highest point on the floor and place the first cabinet there. 
• Use a level tool to help you adjust the legs until the cabinet is perfectly level. 
• Arrange the other cabinets.
• Use a level to ensure the cabinets are level with the first one. If they’re not, adjust the legs until they are.
• Fasten the cabinets to each other and the wall where applicable. This will make sure everything is nice and firm.

Now that you know how to level garage cabinets with legs, you can be sure that your cabinets won’t be placed awkwardly. They’ll be neatly arranged in your garage, and give your space a polished look. 

Final Thoughts

Having garage cabinets sitting on the floor is possible, but you may have to take precautions to prevent water and moisture damage. If you’re working in your garage often, it’s best to lift the cabinets off the floor to avoid knee and back pain.
Among the many benefits of lifting your garage cabinets off the floor is the fact that it is easier to clean your space when the cabinets are lifted.

Ensure that you get adjustable legs so you can level your cabinets easily and give your garage a polished look.

Recommended Reading:

• Should Garage Floors Be Sloped? What You Need To Know
• How to Seal a Garage Door Correctly [Top, Bottom, & Sides]
• OSB Versus Sheetrock In A Garage: Pro, Cons, And Fire Code