How to Build Cabinets for An RV? Full Guide

I’ll walk you through some steps by step methods to build cabinets for an RV in this post.

Understanding the construction of your RV cabinetry will help you plan your project effectively, so do not start swinging hammers or picking up paintbrushes until you have done so.

There are a variety of different materials that can be used to make RV storage cabinets can be made of metal, plastic, wood, or even glass. The wood used to make RV cabinet doors is specifically pine, oak, and cherry.

Let’s look more closely at the components used to create RV cabinets. Additionally, we’ll look at painting cabinets and fixing them if they sustain water damage.

Types of RV Cabinets

RVs typically have one of two types of cabinets: framed or integral. When deciding which type of cabinet to choose for your RV, you should weigh the advantages and disadvantages of both options.

Integral Cabinets

One of the most common styles of cabinets for recreational vehicles is an integral cabinet. This type of cabinet is made from a single piece of material, usually plywood or MDF, and is designed to fit snugly into a corner or alcove. Integral cabinets are often used in small RVs, where space is limited, and can be a great way to add storage without taking up too much space.

Integral cabinets are easy to install and can be a great DIY project for those with basic carpentry skills. They are typically less expensive than other cabinets and can be easily customized to fit your needs.

Framed Cabinets

If you have ever been inside an RV, you may have noticed the framed cabinets. These cabinets are not only functional but also add to the overall aesthetic of the Although the majority of people only view them as storage, there is much more to these cabinets than first appears.

The advantage of framed cabinets in RVs is that they have a strong frame that is made to withstand the rigors of travel. This means that your belongings will be safe and secure on the road. The cabinet’s frame can also lend additional support to the RV itself, keeping it stable and level.

RV framed cabinets also typically come with the advantage of being very simple to install. This is due to the fact that they include all required hardware and instructions. To finish the job, you typically only need a few tools.

Related Reading: Differences Between Framed And Frameless Cabinets

Are RV Cabinets Made from Real Wood?

The short answer is: yes, your RV cabinets are typically made out of real wood. They aren’t made of plastic or any other material, at least in that sense.

However, it’s unlikely that the cabinets for your RV will be made from a single piece of wood. Instead, most RV cabinets are built from some type of “engineered wood”.

Smaller wood fibers or pieces are joined to create engineered wood. Plywood is the form that most people are accustomed to.

In earlier RVs, plywood was the most popular material, and some people still use it today. But the most common form of wood found in modern RV cabinets is what’s known as “MDF”.

Having said that, you can find solid wood in RV cabinets if you shop at the higher end of the market, particularly for cabinet doors. These will be constructed from one or more complete pieces of hardwood lumber. The price of solid wood cabinets is higher, but they are also very attractive and long-lasting.

Neither solid wood nor engineered wood is necessarily “better” for Both RV cabinets and their benefits have drawbacks. However, for RV cabinets, both solid wood and engineered wood will be excellent choices.

What Type of Wood is Best for Building RV Cabinets?

If you want to construct high-quality wooden cabinets, it is recommended that you use plywood as your first choice of construction material. Lightweight and moisture-resistant plywood is available.

It comes in attractive, large sheets and is also strong. On the other hand, solid wood that is a little more expensive is an option. The weight, warping, and cost of solid wood, however, are a few of its disadvantages.

Remember that “plywood” simply refers to plywood when purchasing sheet materials. You should therefore never choose a less desirable option. Oriented strand board, particleboard, and medium-density fiberboard are frequently some of the lower-quality options.

These are more affordable choices because they merely combine glue and wood chips or sawdust in an equal amount. They weigh more, which is unfortunate, and they frequently easily absorb water.

Related Post: Best Wood For Cabinet Doors

How to Build RV Cabinets?

If you’re looking for a way to add storage and organization to your RV, one of the best ways is to build your own cabinets. This task isn’t as challenging as it might seem, and it’s a great way to make use of space that would otherwise be wasted.

Measure the Space

Measuring the area where the cabinets will be installed is the first step. RV cabinets are typically much narrower than regular home cabinets, so it’s important to get accurate measurements. Mark out the area on a piece of paper or cardboard once you have your measurements so you can see how the finished product will look.

Cut the Pieces

It’s time to start cutting the pieces for your cabinets after you’ve measured and marked out the area. If you’re using plywood, you’ll need to use a saw to cut the panels to size. For this project, we recommend using 3/4″ thick plywood for the sides, bottom, and shelves of the cabinets. The doors can be made from 1/2″ thick plywood.

Assemble the Cabinets

It’s time to begin putting the cabinets together once all of your pieces have been cut. You’ll need a drill and some wood screws for this step. Start by attaching the sides of the cabinet to the bottom panel. Afterward, attach the shelves by screwing them into the cabinet’s sides. The doors should then be hinged to the cabinet’s front.

Install the Cabinets

It’s now time to install your cabinets in your RV after they have been assembled. Prior to installing the cabinets, locate a stud in the wall. Then, use wood screws to attach the cabinets to the stud. Before screwing the cabinets into place, it’s crucial to ensure that they are level.

After learning how to construct RV cabinets, put your knowledge to the test by expanding the storage space in your vehicle.

Read More: How to Build a Cabinet Drawer?

Can You Paint over RV Cabinets?

Your RV cabinets can absolutely be painted over. You can paint your cabinets no matter what type of material they are made of.

It is advised to use oil-based paint when painting your RV cabinets for a more durable finish. Additionally, it is advised to prime your cabinets before painting; if your cabinets have any kind of vinyl or paper coating, this step is absolutely crucial! Any paint you apply in this case is likely to later flake off.

Water-based primers can moisten the surface, which could cause the paint to lift or leave cracks as it dries, according to Joy Kelley of Barefoot Detour. In the RV Camping Magazine issue from February 2022, you can read more about her painting methods and advice.

You can use a latex paint and primer combo for cabinets made entirely of wood. Even though it saves time, using separate applications of primer and paint will yield better results.

What is the Best Paint for RV Cabinets?

You should use a paint that is tough and can withstand the rigors of travel when painting the cabinets in your RV. Paint that is simple to maintain and clean is another thing you want. How do you know which paint is best for your RV cabinets when there are so many different types of paint available?

The highest-grade, most resilient paint that is simple to keep clean and maintain is the best paint for RV cabinets. Some of the best brands of paint for RV cabinets include Rust-Oleum, Valspar, and Benjamin Moore. The colors and finishes available from these brands will suit your needs and taste.

When choosing a paint for your RV cabinets, consider the following factors:

Look

The first thing you need to decide is the type of look you want to achieve. Do you want to project a contemporary or more vintage vibe? Your options will be reduced as a result, making it simpler to select the ideal paint.

Color

The color of your RV cabinets is the next thing you need to think about. What shade do you desire? Which color do you prefer—light or dark? Choose a color that complements the overall look you want to achieve by taking that into account.

Finish

The paint’s finish is the final thing to take into account. Finishes come in a wide variety of styles, from high gloss to low luster. Pick a finish that is simple to care for and keep clean.

Since you now know what to look for in paint, you can start looking around for the best choice for your RV cabinets. Ask friends or family members who own RVs what kind of paint they use. To learn what other RVers think of various paint brands, you can also read online reviews. Once you’ve made a decision, it’s time to get painting!

How Do You Fix Water-Damaged RV Cabinets?

There are ways to repair water-damaged cabinets if your RV develops a leak or if you come across a restoration project for a gem in the rough that you simply can’t pass up.

The doors and any hardware, such as hinges, must be taken out before attempting to repair water-damaged RV cabinets. You’ll need to wait until the wood is completely dry before continuing. Allow ample time for a thorough drying of the cabinets and cupboards.

Reapply primer to the troubled areas as your next action. To seal the damaged area, you might also want to use plastic wood filler, depending on the extent of the damage. Make certain that all surfaces are flawless.

Sand everything down after that. You might want to apply another coat of primer and/or wood filler, depending on the extent of the damage. It’s time to paint your RV cabinets once everything is flat and smooth.

From this point on, painting these cabinets is essentially the same as painting any other cabinets.

Conclusion on RV Cabinets

Although a few different materials can be used to create RV cabinets, plywood is the most typical. Plywood is a strong, resilient material that can withstand heavy use, making it perfect for use in an RV.

RV cabinets can occasionally be made of solid wood as well, especially in more expensive or luxurious models.

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