Source for cheap cabinets

[L Gebhardt]

My darkroom is finally coming along. The walls are up and painted. Soon the floor and ceiling will be in. Then I can start moving equipment in. I would like to add a bunch of cabinets, but as always I'd rather spend money on film. It seems I can get countertops for not much money at the big box stores. But the inexpensive cabinets are very crappy for the price. So I'm looking for ideas on how to find cabinets on the cheap.

I don't know anyone currently remodeling a kitchen, nor do I know any contractors.

So any ideas on sources for free, or low cost cabinets? Kitchen cabinets are what I have in mind, but other sources are fine too.

 

[aparat]

If you don't mind used furniture, check out your local Craig's List. You can find some really nice cabinets selling for next to nothing, and sometimes even for free.

 

[Barry S]

You could try calling some local kitchen remodeling companies and tell them what you're looking for. I also agree with the CL suggestion--you can probably find them for free as long as you do the pickup and hauling.

 

[Ian Grant]

All towns & cities the world over have shops selling cheap second hand furniture, there must be one near you. My cupboards came from friends, the olde the better because usually they are far better made

Ian

 

[Paul Howell]

I called several contactors who remodel and bought some very good all real wood, well plyboard, cabinets they had just taken out for replacement real cheap.

 

[jeroldharter]

Ikea usually has the cheapest prices for anything like that.

If you want to go really cheap, just buy galvanized steel pipe and put a flange on each end to support countertops and have open shelving underneath. Screw the countertop into the wall. You might check out a commercial restaurant supply company for basic stainless steel counter tops. I prefer 30 inch depth to the standard 24 inches so using the pipes lets you decide your own dimensions. I think that standard cabinets are usually too constricting. The openings are not large enough to store a 16x20 easel for example. Cabinets tend to get filled with junk that is never used. Open, under-counter shelves are more convenient for storing paper boxes, mat board, etc.

 

[bsdunek]

I got mine from the Habitat for Humanity store. I think it was about $75 for everything I needed. My darkroom is 12X16.
Not only can you get stuff at a reasonable price, but you're helping your fellow man.