DIY Grow cabinet wood choices

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extremophile420

Member
I decided to build a 180cm width, 200cm height, 60cm depth cabinet.

1- after reading many threads, i decided to go with plywood (other choices were OSB and MDF). Do you think this is the right wood decision?

2- my budgets allows me for 1/4" plywood coverings to cover the frame. Is 1/4" good for a grow cabinet? (longetivity, practicality, general grow environment), or should i wait until i can afford 1/2"? Does it make a difference in the long term? I dont really plan on upgrading, this will be my grow area for as long as it can last, so i want to build it right from the first time.
 
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spek9

Well-Known Member
OSB and MDF will absorb moisture a lot easier, so plywood is the right choice.

The only benefit that 1/2" will provide over 1/4" is stability/rigidity.

Just ensure to wrap the inside with mylar or panda film, or a couple of coats of good flat white paint to keep the moisture from absorbing into the wood.
 
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extremophile420

Member
spek9 said:
OSB and MDF will absorb moisture a lot easier, so plywood is the right choice.

The only benefit that 1/2" will provide over 1/4" is stability/rigidity.

Just ensure to wrap the inside with mylar or panda film, or a couple of coats of good flat white paint to keep the moisture from absorbing into the wood.
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I will get plywood for sure, moisture treated then painted flat white.
However my concern was thickness, as i dont want my grow box to last for a year or two then starts to give problems. I want as much longetivity within my budget. Is 1/4" able to handle years of growing?
 
FastFreddi

FastFreddi

Well-Known Member
You could also just reinforce the sides with dimensional lumber , ie 2x2 or 2x4.
Plan so any equipment that needs the extra strength due to weight, is placed accordingly.
Good luck and Happy growing.
FF
 
Hust17

Hust17

Well-Known Member
1/4in is pretty thin but I guess it’s not necessary for it to be thick if you have the supports in place to mount everything you need. If you do go the 1/4 route just make sure you frame her like a pro and don’t try to hang anything off the plywood, obviously :)
 
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extremophile420

Member
Hust17 said:
1/4in is pretty thin but I guess it’s not necessary for it to be thick if you have the supports in place to mount everything you need. If you do go the 1/4 route just make sure you frame her like a pro and don’t try to hang anything off the plywood, obviously :)
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FastFreddi said:
You could also just reinforce the sides with dimensional lumber , ie 2x2 or 2x4.
Plan so any equipment that needs the extra strength due to weight, is placed accordingly.
Good luck and Happy growing.
FF
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myke said:
The 1/2 ply will allow you to hang/put screws anywhere you like,carry more load also like vent fans.
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The 1/4 inch plywood will be attached on a frame. The cabinet is buing built by a carpenter, so professionalism is not something to worry about. Will 1/4 inch last me for years to come?
 
natureboygrower

natureboygrower

Well-Known Member
myke said:
Also doesn't gloss paint have more moisture resistance then flat?
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Yes, the higher the sheen, the harder the finish is, which makes it easier to wash. I've heard there could be too many hot spots with high gloss though.
Op should use flat paint and add a packet of mildewcide to the can at the paint shop and have them shake it if moisture is a major concern. I used ben moore's muresco ceiling paint which according them, is one of their brightest whites.
 
myke

myke

Well-Known Member
depends on space I guess,1/4 ply over 1 1/2 frame compared to 1/2 as you wouldn't need a frame.Is this cab free standing?Or???
 
Bobby2times

Bobby2times

Well-Known Member
Line it with Panda, be sure to use some panda to make a catch basin in the bottom in case you have spills. Change the panda out as needed and while changing the panda out clean the inside wood surface and allow to air dry. It will last you as long as it needs to. Good luck on the build.

Edit:As mentioned previously in this thread it would be a good idea to paint the inside as well. Because of the nooks and crannies of plywood, I would still recommend panda for easy wipe downs.

-Bobby2Cents
 
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natureboygrower

natureboygrower

Well-Known Member
Bobby2times said:
Edit:As mentioned previously in this thread it would be a good idea to paint the inside as well. Because of the nooks and crannies of plywood I would still recommend panda for easy wipe downs.

-Bobby2Cents
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And caulk every seam and crack for any potential light leaks. I applied contact paper to the floor of my cab as well for an extra moisture barrier
 
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spek9

Well-Known Member
myke said:
Also doesn't gloss paint have more moisture resistance then flat?
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Not really anymore. That's why I said to use a "good" flat white paint.

Flat reflects light better, and almost all of the decent flat paint anymore is not only very water resistant, you can literally scrub it.
 
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