Cabinet count estimator
Use this when planning garden sheds, potting stations, or greenhouse storage runs. It helps estimate how many cabinet modules fit after real-world losses.
Formula used
This estimator uses a conservative length budget so your plan stays realistic.
- Usable length = Wall length − Obstructions − (Corner count × Corner clearance).
- Net plan length = Usable length − (Usable length × Filler %).
- Cabinet count = floor(Net plan length ÷ (Module width + Gap)).
- Type split uses your percentages, then rounds by largest fractions.
How to use
- Measure the cabinet wall run you want to use.
- Add total widths of doors, windows, and fixed equipment.
- Enter corner count and a practical clearance per corner.
- Choose a typical module width you plan to buy.
- Set filler percent to cover end fillers and trim.
- Submit to see counts, used length, and remaining space.
Example data table
| Wall (ft) | Obstructions (ft) | Corners | Corner clearance (ft) | Filler (%) | Module (in) | Gap (ft) | Estimated cabinets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 5 | 30 | 1.5 | 3 |
| 28 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 7 | 24 | 1 | 9 |
| 14 | 1 | 2 | 1.5 | 6 | 18 | 0.5 | 5 |
Article
Space inventory
Measure the cabinet wall run where storage will live, then record units consistently. A 20‑foot shed wall rarely delivers 20 feet of cabinet space. Doors, hose reels, electrical panels, and vent fans consume frontage. By entering obstruction totals, you get an early planning length that prevents overbuying and reduces returns. Include any fixed benches you cannot relocate.
Obstruction realism
Corner losses are easy to underestimate in potting areas. Two inside corners with a 2‑foot clearance each remove 4 feet before you place a single cabinet. Add a modest filler allowance, typically 3–8%, for end panels and scribe strips. This calculator combines those reductions into a net plan length you can budget confidently. Recheck measurements after framing repairs.
Module width strategy
Cabinet modules behave like repeatable building blocks. Using a 24–36 inch module aligns with common cabinet SKUs and simplifies hardware selection. The estimator divides net length by module width, optionally adding a small gap per cabinet for shimming and uneven framing. The floor function keeps the estimate conservative, leaving breathing room for installation. Wider modules reduce door count and hinge maintenance.
Type mix for workflow
Garden storage works best when the cabinet mix matches tasks. Base cabinets support heavy items like soil, fertilizer, and bins, while wall cabinets protect small tools and treatments from splashes. Tall cabinets are ideal for long‑handled tools and folded carts. Percentage controls convert one total count into a practical split you can refine later. Prioritize a type when rounding to avoid gaps.
From estimate to build
Use the results as a shopping and layout starting point. Compare the estimated linear length per type with your wall sketch, then swap in exact widths for specialty units. If remaining length is large, consider a narrow pull‑out, open shelving, or a seed drawer bank. Export CSV for quotes and archive PDF for job notes. Keep moisture‑safe materials and ventilation in mind. Check load ratings, anchor points, and clearance for doors before final ordering carefully.
FAQs
What does the cabinet count represent?
It is an estimated number of standard-width cabinet modules that fit on your net plan length after subtracting obstructions, corners, and filler allowance. Use it for early planning, then confirm with exact product widths.
How should I measure obstructions?
Add the widths of doors, windows, fixed shelves, electrical boxes, hose reels, and anything you cannot cover with cabinets. Measure along the same wall line where cabinet faces will sit.
Why add filler allowance?
Real installs need end panels, scribe strips, and small adjustments for out-of-square walls. A 3–8% filler allowance is common for sheds and potting zones, but use more if walls are uneven.
Which module width should I choose?
Pick the width you expect to buy most often, such as 24 or 30 inches. The calculator snaps to common standard widths in standard mode, or lets you enter a custom width for specialty systems.
What is the gap per cabinet used for?
A small gap accounts for shimming, slight framing variation, and spacing needs between boxes. If your walls are very straight and cabinets are face-frame aligned, you can set gaps to zero.
Can I rely on the type split percentages?
Treat the split as a workflow guideline. Adjust it after you map where potting, watering, and tool storage happen. Always verify that heavier items stay in base or tall cabinets for safer access.