Before designing your outdoor kitchen layout, it’s important to consider which metal alloy will be the best fit for your environment. There are many materials to choose from, including different grades of stainless steel, aluminum, natural stone, wood, and concrete. At JW Metal Cabinets, we focus on the best metal cabinets crafted from marine-grade aluminum, 304 stainless steel, and 316L marine-grade stainless steel. While all of these materials are excellent for outdoor cabinets, some may perform better than others depending on your specific environment.
Let’s jump into differences so you can make an most informed decision for your outdoor kitchen.
Aluminum Alloy
Aluminum is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant metal that is an excellent choice for your outdoor kitchen cabinets due to its versatility and natural resistance to rust.
We use 0.080-inch marine-grade aluminum, which is thicker and more durable than standard aluminum, providing increased strength and reliability for outdoor kitchens. While aluminum is not as hard or impact-resistant as stainless steel, it offers several unique benefits, such as being significantly lighter and easier to handle. Additionally, its natural oxide layer provides inherent corrosion resistance, making it a practical choice for areas with mild weather conditions. With proper finishing options, such as powder coating, aluminum cabinets can achieve both a stylish and durable appearance, tailored to your outdoor space.
Key Features
- Lightweight
Aluminum is significantly lighter than stainless steel, making it much easier to handle and install. This is especially beneficial for outdoor kitchen projects where ease of assembly and transportation is important. - Corrosion Resistance
Aluminum naturally resists rust thanks to the formation of a protective oxide layer, ensuring long-lasting performance in outdoor environments. For added protection, all exposed aluminum in our cabinets is powder-coated inside and out, maximizing durability and resistance to environmental wear. - Durability with Proper Coating
While aluminum is naturally resilient, powder-coating it provides an extra layer of protection against scratches, dents, and UV exposure. This process ensures that our cabinets can withstand the rigors of outdoor use while maintaining their appearance over time.
All exposed areas of aluminum outdoor cabinets are powder coated for an added layer of corrosion resistance and aesthetics.
Best Environments for Choosing Aluminum Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets
- Mild to Moderate Climates
It performs well in environments with low to moderate humidity, where exposure to saltwater or extreme weather is minimal. - Covered Outdoor Spaces
These semi-enclosed spaces provide additional protection from direct exposure to heavy rain, snow, or UV rays, extending the lifespan of aluminum cabinets.
304 Stainless Steel
304 stainless steel is a durable, corrosion-resistant material that’s ideal for outdoor kitchen cabinets, offering a perfect blend of strength, style, and reliability. Known for its versatility, this alloy is one of the most popular choices for outdoor kitchens.
Key Features:
- Corrosion Resistance
Contains 17.50–19.00% chromium and 8.00–10.00% nickel, making it resistant to rust and staining in mild to moderate environments. Ideal for outdoor kitchens in inland areas with minimal exposure to saltwater or harsh chemicals. - Strength and Durability
Strong and durable, it can withstand heavy usage and impact. As an austenitic stainless steel, 304 has a face-centered cubic (FCC) crystal structure, which allows it to absorb impacts and resist deformation under pressure. - Brushed Finish Option
A brushed finish enhances the metal’s appearance while helping to conceal fingerprints, smudges, and minor scratches. This textured finish adds an extra layer of resilience against daily wear and tear, ensuring your cabinets maintain their polished look. - Powder-Coated Exterior Option
The exterior of our 304 stainless steel cabinets is powder-coated, providing an additional barrier against moisture, UV exposure, and environmental contaminants. The powder coating seals the surface, reducing the risk of surface damage and ensuring long-term protection against rust and staining.
304 stainless steel outdoor cabinets come in a full brushed or exterior powder coated finish.
Best Environments for Choosing 304 Stainless Steel Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets
- Inland Areas with Mild to Moderate Humidity
Locations with balanced weather conditions are ideal, as the material’s natural corrosion resistance ensures long-lasting performance without the risk of rust or staining. - Covered Outdoor Spaces
Partial protection from direct exposure to heavy rain, snow, or UV rays can extend the lifespan of 304 stainless steel cabinets and keep them looking pristine.
316L Stainless Steel
316L stainless steel is a premium-grade, corrosion-resistant material designed for demanding environments, making it an exceptional choice for open air kitchen. Known for its superior performance in harsh conditions, 316L offers unmatched durability, reliability, and style, even in the most challenging outdoor settings.
Key Features:
-
- Superior Corrosion Resistance
Contains 16.00–18.00% chromium, 10.00–14.00% nickel, and 2.00–3.00% molybdenum, which significantly enhance resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion caused by chlorides and saltwater. - Low-Carbon Content
The “L” in 316L stands for low carbon, which reduces the risk of carbide precipitation during welding or high-heat exposure. This makes 316L more resistant to corrosion at welded joints, ensuring a seamless and durable finish. - Brushed Finish Option
A brushed finish enhances the metal’s appearance while helping to conceal fingerprints, smudges, and minor scratches. This textured finish adds an extra layer of resilience against daily wear and tear, ensuring your cabinets maintain their polished look. - Powder-Coated Exterior Option
The exterior of our 304 stainless steel cabinets is powder-coated, providing an additional barrier against moisture, UV exposure, and environmental contaminants. The powder coating seals the surface, reducing the risk of surface damage and ensuring long-term protection against rust and staining.
- Superior Corrosion Resistance
316L stainless steel outdoor cabinets come in a full brushed or exterior powder coated finish.
Best Use:
- Coastal Areas or High-Salinity Environments
316L stainless steel is specifically designed to resist corrosion from saltwater and salty air, making it the ideal choice for beachfront or waterfront properties. Its molybdenum content provides exceptional protection against pitting, even in constant exposure to harsh marine conditions. - High-Humidity or Tropical Regions
In humid or tropical climates where moisture levels are consistently high, 316L outperforms other grades of stainless steel by resisting rust and maintaining its structural integrity. - Fully Exposed Outdoor Spaces
Unlike 304 stainless steel, 316L can endure direct exposure to heavy rain, snow, and UV rays without compromising its performance or appearance. Its robust composition ensures durability in uncovered or open outdoor kitchen designs.
Comparing the Three Materials
| Feature | Aluminum | 304 Stainless Steel | 316L Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrosion Resistance | Moderate | High | Superior |
| Durability | Moderate | Excellent | Exceptional |
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavy | |
| Cost | Low | Moderate | High |
| Finish | Powder Coated | Brushed Stainless Steel / Powder Coated Exterior | |
| Maintenance | Low | ||
Choosing the Right Material for Your Outdoor Cooking Area
When deciding between 304 stainless steel, 316L stainless steel, and aluminum, consider these factors:
- Environmental Conditions:
- For coastal areas or humid climates, 316L stainless steel is the top choice.
- In inland areas, 304 stainless steel provides a durable option.
- Aluminum works best in mild climates or where weight savings are important.
- Durability and Aesthetics:
- For a high-end, professional look with maximum durability, stainless steel is unbeatable. Aluminum can be customized with powder coating for a more colorful aesthetic.
- Usage Requirements:
- If your outdoor kitchen sees heavy usage or exposure to harsh weather, opt for 316L stainless steel.
Choosing the right metal for your outdoor kitchen is a balance between performance, and aesthetics. At JW Metal Cabinets, we specialize in crafting custom stainless steel and aluminum cabinets that are designed to thrive in any outdoor environment. Whether you prefer the resilience of 316L stainless steel, the versatility of 304 stainless steel, or the lightweight benefits of aluminum, our expert team is here to help you create a durable and stunning outdoor kitchen.
Resources and References: Stainless Supply 304 Stainless Steel | Stainless Supply 316L Stainless Steel