Calculator Inputs
Example Data Table
| Scenario | Opening (W×H) | Doors | Overlay | Reveal | Center gap | Result (Each door) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Potting bench cabinet | 24 × 30 in | 2 | 0.50 in | 0.125 in | 0.125 in | 12.188 × 30.750 in |
| Garden tool locker | 18 × 36 in | 1 | 0.50 in | 0.125 in | — | 18.750 × 36.750 in |
| Outdoor sink base | 600 × 720 mm | 2 | 12 mm | 3 mm | 3 mm | 309.5 × 738.0 mm |
Formula Used
This calculator follows standard overlay-door sizing, adapted for outdoor garden cabinets. It assumes a uniform reveal around door edges, plus optional clearances.
- Door height:
H = OpeningH + 2×Overlay − 2×Reveal − TopClearance − BottomClearance - Net door width (single door):
W = OpeningW + 2×Overlay − 2×Reveal − 2×HingeClearance - Door width (double doors):
W_each = (NetW − CenterGap) ÷ 2 - Area and perimeter are computed from each door size, then multiplied by door count. Waste allowance scales total area for material planning.
How to Use This Calculator
- Measure the cabinet opening at the face frame where doors sit.
- Choose one door for narrow openings, or two for wider openings.
- Enter overlay and reveal to control coverage and clearance.
- Set center gap for double doors, especially with seals.
- Use top/bottom clearance when doors sit near soil trays or counters.
- Press Calculate to see results above the form, then export.
Door Sizing for Outdoor Garden Cabinets
Field Measurements That Reduce Rework
Measure the opening at the top, middle, and bottom, then use the smallest width and height. Outdoor cabinets often sit on soil, pavers, or decks that shift, so “best-case” numbers can create rub points. Check for out-of-square by comparing diagonal measurements; a mismatch signals racking. Record your final numbers in the same unit system you will cut and drill.
Overlay and Reveal as a Weather Strategy
Overlay increases coverage over the face frame and helps block splash, dust, and wind. Reveal is the controlled gap that prevents binding when humidity swells wood, especially on painted edges. If you’ll add weather stripping, keep reveal uniform and size the center gap to match the seal thickness. For high-sun locations, a touch more reveal can reduce heat-related sticking.
Single vs Double Door Planning
A single door is fast to build but becomes heavy on wide openings, stressing hinges and latches. Double doors split the load and improve access to fertilizer bins, hoses, and tool racks. This calculator divides the net width, subtracts the center gap, and returns equal door sizes for balanced closure. Symmetry also makes magnetic catches and barrel bolts easier to align.
Material Allowance and Cut Efficiency
Area outputs help you plan sheet goods like exterior plywood, PVC panels, or rot-resistant hardwood. Waste allowance covers tear-out, knots, grain selection, and trimming after test fits. A practical range is 5–12% for clean sheets, and 10–18% for reclaimed boards. Use perimeter totals to estimate edge banding, paint on door edges, and gasket length around each door.
Hardware Clearances That Matter Outdoors
Hinge-side clearance is useful for bulky outdoor hinges, hinge shims, and thick seals. Top and bottom clearances help when doors sit near counters, drip edges, or uneven pads. If a door binds, adjust only the problem edge or hinge placement rather than shrinking reveal everywhere. Consistent gaps look cleaner and keep the cabinet closing predictably.
FAQs
1) What is a good reveal for garden cabinets?
A common reveal is 1/8 inch (about 3 mm). For damp climates or painted wood doors, consider slightly more. The goal is smooth movement without visible uneven gaps.
2) How do I choose overlay for an outdoor cabinet?
Overlay depends on your face frame and hinge style. Many builders use 1/2 inch per side for good coverage. Confirm hinge specifications and ensure the door does not hit adjacent frames or posts.
3) Should I use one door or two doors?
Use one door for narrow openings and lighter storage. Choose two doors for wider openings to reduce weight per hinge and improve access. Double doors also make it easier to keep doors square.
4) Why does hinge-side clearance change door width?
Some outdoor hinges, seals, or hinge cups need extra space to avoid binding. Hinge-side clearance subtracts from the net width so the door swings cleanly, even if the cabinet face is not perfectly flat.
5) Does door thickness affect the cut size?
Thickness does not change the width or height formula directly, but it affects hardware choice, seal compression, and hinge setback. Record thickness so your hinge selection and weatherproofing plan stay consistent.
6) How much waste allowance should I enter?
For new sheet goods, 8% is a solid starting point. Increase it if you are matching grain, using reclaimed boards, or routing decorative profiles. The waste value only scales material planning, not door dimensions.