BUILD vs BUY: DIY Custom Closet System
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 10 янв 2025
- Is it better to build or buy a closet organization system?? Let's find out!
Head to squarespace.co... to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code MODERNBUILDS
How To Build a Custom Closet Organization System with Adjustable Shelves and Drawers for Storage. I wasn't expecting this to be much of a challenge. I thought the DIY or BUILD version would win this competition hands down, but I was surprised to find that the "BUY" version of the closet is also really high quality and with the price of plywood and other materials these days, relatively affordable. let me know what you think down in the comments!
Materials and Supplies:
Closet I Bought: homedepot.sjv.io/5gr7g9
Closet Rod: homedepot.sjv.io/eKzAKD
Rod Hardware: homedepot.sjv.io/JznmKr
Affordable Rod: amzn.to/3QqFuIW
Drawer Slides: homedepot.sjv.io/g10WOO
Brad Nail Assortment: amzn.to/3JES7w9
Wood Putty: amzn.to/49WVdqc
Where I Get My Music (Free Trial): www.epidemicso...
Thanks for watching!!
www.modernbuild...
___________________________________________________________________
ADD ME ON:
Instagram: goo.gl/UgEpJs | @modernbuilds
Facebook: goo.gl/KiI1cX
TikTok: / mikefrommodernbuilds
Subscribe: goo.gl/pgDSS8
Website: www.modernbuild...
Merch: www.modernbuild...
___________________________________________________________________
Thanks for watching!
-Mike Montgomery
MODERN BUILDS
Hi, My name is Mike Montgomery and I'm a MAKER; a designer, builder, and full-time content creator. Accessibility is my focus with Modern Builds, not simply accessibility of designs, but accessibility in materials, information, and projects themselves. I've focused on creating furniture and DIY projects that are simple enough that any beginner maker can accomplish, yet interesting enough that any expert might be inspired. Building and making is becoming less and less of an exclusive hobby and profession. My goal is to reduce that separation even further.
![DIY Dream Closet Makeover On A Budget [Part 1] // Closet On A Budget // IKEA Hack](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/hpzVmycvLrg/mqdefault.jpg)
I do a lot of build-in shelves. Once you have the (plywood) verticals attached to the wall, you'll find that the front edges tend to bend a bit. Fix: roughly in the vertical middle of the system, pick a shelf, drill two pocket holes on the front underside, and screw those two shelf corners to the vertical member. That will stabilize the construct.
What do y'all think about the DIY vs. BUY concept?? Seems like a fun way of breaking down whether purchasing or DIY'ing is worth it or not. Plus, having 2 closets in the income property renovation made it useful/convenient! Comment your other DIY vs BUY ideas below :)
The episode I’ve been waiting for!
More Buy vs Build videos please!!
It’s a great idea ❤ just like you said if you don’t have a lot of wood skills buy is a great idea but if you’re excellent at working with wood, the super pro is great too
According to your numbers, you paid yourself about $50 per hour.
The built one is so much better. It is custom and it shows. Custom closets sell houses.
I ordered and installed the same the pre-built. I’m about a 3/5 DIYer. I would spend the extra $400 every single time to save the 8 hours of extra work. I would for sure mess up a cut or two, so I’d also be saving myself a headache and a few bucks in the swear jar 😂
Rather than use edge banding (which has a sharp enough edge to occasionally cut you, over the years of use) I prefer to "nose" all the vertical ply and the front of the shelves with 1/4~3/8 x 3/4 "screen trim" (which has already-rounded corners). Glue and tape will attach it to the wood. It's actually faster than edge banding. Works really well with a 23ga pinner (usually can't even see the pins once driven in).
Thank you Squarespace and the Home Depot for keeping this national treasure on RUclips. I think I’ve learned more stuff from this guy over the course of my life than from people I actually know
Both options are great. Because I lack carpentry skills, I'd opt for #1. Thanks, Mike! House is GREAT! 👍👏❤😍🥰
Love what you did with the build. I built a custom closet for my house. I used 2 ikea dressers mounted on platforms, black gas pipe for my hanging rods and 3/4 plywood for my top shelf. The length of the closet is around 14' with a depth of almost 6'. The dressers are around 5' wide x 19" deep... on either side. The center ended up being about 46" wide, so I put in a 36" dresser and left a gap of 10" to hang long coats or other items. I planned this closet for nearly 2 years and it turned about 90% of the way I envisioned. You come up with some great ideas so I like seeing your channel
You added extra storage and made it look amazing! Definitely would choose the DIY way.
I think you should do a series on RTA (Ready to Assemble) cabinetry. I think it's the perfect straddling between DIY and looking superpro. I feel a lot of people who dig IKEA style assembling should be exposed to the bigger universe of RTA cabinetry.
i would love to see RTA in ikea pax system since most people don't have tools, the skills or workshop.
I definitely agree with this sentiment. Your average consumer aren't woodworkers nor can they shell out hundreds or a couple of thousands on equipment to perform these DIY. I feel like that's what alot of these DIY video seem to be missing. There's the skill (learning) and the equipment (cost, space, etc) that are not taking into account for these.
Didn't add any paint, stain or varnish time
Definitely, bc I had no idea they existed until this comment. THANK YOU! This is the perfect solution for myself who's willing to do the building/assembling but not the material hunting/cutting. 👍🏼👍🏼 Besides the blades terrifying me (don't ask), this is a step up from DIY and I basically have all th equipment I need.
@@gotrice5 One way to offset the cost issue of equipment is by purchasing used equipment from either online market places or pawn shops.
Build - sturdier, more options. And gives more satisfaction afterwards, I think.
I vote for build since I usually have a lot more time than money. And practice helps keep improving the looks.
It’s interesting you say this because I’m thinking I can have more money than time and that’s why debate 😂 plus my skill is lacking
@@BrookeDoesScience Skill comes with use which does take time. You wish for more time and I wish for more money. And the world keeps turning. And I think I'm getting dizzy now. Keep up the posting and I'll keep watching.
If you have more time than money how can you afford the tools and materials needed to build most quality projects?
@@WeMe83 It isn't always about the quality of the tools as much as the patience and care in the work done. I have tools older than me but they still do what I need. And I'm old too. If you are careful, you can usually find the materials bit by bit and build when all is available. Save (store) until then.
Wow, man. Looks great on both. I love the diy custom one you did a little more. I have no background in construction, so for me, this kind of stuff is so cool to watch.
Thank you for sharing.
I would flip those shelf pins around so the wood covers them and uses the leverage to support the weight better.
Agree!
that's how I did it at my house with those same pins.
The answer is different for you, a handy person, than for those of us who don't have the requisite tools or expertise. And don't forget all of the time you'll have to add to the "build" option for sanding and finish (staining, painting, whatever).
Yeah it also helps to have a stand alone workshop with a table saw and all that. Seriously?
@@JSTX9216 you don't need a standalone workshop to have a table saw.. A small garage, driveway, patio, or yard works too.. Seriously?
Build! All day, every day. Love this comparison video, thanks!
Awesome, loved seeing the comparison and build come together. Definitely makes you think to consider building everything from scratch due to cost and pleasure of knowing you built it all. Thanks!
Thank you! You’ve given me the confidence to diy my closet.
Ok - buy option for me - not equipped to do the build but so enjoy watching you do it - everything is looking so great!!! ❤
Hi Mom!! The drawers look so good! I need to come hang out and build with you guys! Love watching your projects. You do a great job of providing step-by-step instructions and explaining why you choose to do things the way you do. Honestly, you should have an HGTV program. Super Pro! ;)
Hi I would do the build version, and that because I love the final finish of something you build yourself. always love your videos.
He does say at the end for all you haters the time vs money cost saving, great build Mike!! 🎉🎉
I like the build of course because I too am a builder which is why I found your RUclips channel. However, I am very impressed with the buy option. They look a lot better than I thought they would. Nice job. Im a new subscriber now.
like them both just a matter of what you are more comfortable with. The only thing I would suggest is adding some led lights to help with the darkness.
Super Pro!! Love it bro. Love your energy. Great video. 🎉
definitely go withe the BUILD!! i really loved it!
Your self-build version looks great and with 3/4" ply vs. particle board, there's really no comparison as to which one is the stronger build. There is one more caveat worth factoring into it and that's the additional finishing time and materials for staining, painting, sanding, etc. Without taking these steps, the self-build project will look, well... unfinished. With it, you're adding a fair bit of time and maybe an additional $80 in materials to the cost. Maybe there's a happy compromise to be had by purchasing the center cabinet and drawers and then building your own custom shelves, organizers, and clothes hangers? Just a thought. Great job!
they drawers you made are a perfect design Mike!
Loved your vid and will be installing a bought closet kit. If I had a workshop and space, I'd definitely like to build it and make it more custom. Thanks again, I'll check out some of your other DIY's 🙂
I love a good closet organization project! I really like the one you DIY'd, but nothing wrong with using purchased components either.
Psst, I think the slot you cut in your drawers for the bottom panel is a dado, not a rabbet. 10:10
Plywood option more versatile but shop version for is for everyone I like video 👌 I have tip for edge banding cutting off try to turn your utility knife top side ot the blade and swipe it along to make that kind of snapping off action it doesn’t dig into the plywood
Since your channel name is Modern "Builds" and not Modern "Assemble", the build version is obviously the winner! lol I do like the build version better but good job either way!
Technically, what you cut for the drawer bottom is a GROOVE, not a rabbet. A rabbet is cut along the edge of a board and is often used to affix a back panel. A slot cut anywhere along the interior of a board is either a groove (runs with the grain), or a dado, which is a slot that runs across the grain.
the built shelf unit is far superior but I could live with the diy one. only because I don't have the tools or patience to build one!
Nice setup with your solo plywood cuts. Not having a full-sized table saw sucks for sure. BTW the groove cut into the drawer sides is a (cleverly named) groove joint, meant for a tongue joint or a thinner piece of ply like you used, while a rabbet is an entire missing corner that another sheet is glued into.
I've never seen veneer wraps either. Seems pretty genius. I'm going to try that next time
Tack on the cost of a proper table saw to rip plywood well and its clear the pre-built is the way for the standard person. If you got great tools and a weekend to spare, you'd be crazy not to build it yourself. If i was gonna re-do all 4 closets in my house, pre-builts would be at least $2k. A nice tablesaw and $800 and you get better results with some money saved.
I have that one from Home Depot and it took me just a few minutes over an hour using a hand saw. Put it up on my own and unfortunately I didn't have a power saw. It looked great though so time well spent.
I have to say I like your build better cause it seems better and sturdy great job
I’m needed this video comparison! Thank you so much!
This was such a good idea for content. I also hat predrilled holes, go DIY!
Fantastic. Opting for the kit option. We don't have a huge shop, tools, skills, or patience
Would love to build the DIY option and I definitely could. I don’t have the time or the stand alone shop with the table saw and it’s a pain to go with cut lists to the store. I have a lot of stuff going on so Time is more important so the first option for me.
great job I loved the one you built best
Could always paint the french cleat to match the wall and then it would be hidden even easier.
I'd go two rods on one side and one higher rod on the other.
Very nice.
I agree the DIY version is sturdier BUT you need to add in the cost of the equipment used. Not many here have table saws and other necessary tools. Plus the time it takes to lay out the plans for the shelving. You used the already defined layout from the bought system. In addition, did you add in the time it took to drive to Home Depot, pick out the right wood products, haul them home and unpack. That's another half day. I love what you did but most here would need to hire someone to do it and that gets even more expensive imo.
It seems like a lot of people don’t really value their time. All of their time. Thanks for pointing that out.
It takes you half a day to go to home depot and get 3 sheets of plywood?? Keep in mind you have to go to the store and buy the closet system too.. This is a weekend project at most and you can build a much nicer closet system than the one he bought.. And the one he built, no offense to his skills..
@@GageDrums Home Depot is not just around the corner from where I live. Even if it were it will still occupy a half day to go there, pick out the right sheets, have Home Depot do the initial cuts, wait in line to pay and drive home and unpack. So yeah, a half day.
@treydrier3169 🤣
@@GageDrums Hilarious isn't it Little Drummer Boy? 😘
If I rented or bought a house from you, I'd need an area where I could hang long dresses. I really like watching you do your custom building.
What kind of ply did you use? Can you discuss the different options, pros vs cons, of ply’s /mdf/melamine?
If you have the tools, build.
If not, buy.
Like most projects
Check out next level carpentry and look up his Goat outfeed stands. Pretty slick. Also, yes softside full extension is awesome for luxury.
BUILD. FOR SURE!
What kind of ply did you use?
Getting ready to make some for our new home. 💪🏽
The comparison between buying and building a custom closet system offers valuable insights for those considering a similar project. Understanding the trade-offs in terms of time, quality, and expertise is essential for making the right decision. 🔧
The extra time to finish the wood with stain or paint is also a minus, but you definitely get better build quality, structure, customization, and unlimited finishing options
Your shell pins are upside down- rotate them 180 and you won’t see them, and the shelf will hold them tight. 😊
Mike, they aren't called rabbets, but grooves (if running with the grain) or dados (if across the grain). Great job on the build although you might consider edgebanding those drawer faces to hide the plywood.
Great video, mate. Will you do a video putting doors on your closets? (If you are putting doors on).
I’m not sure how much height there is between the bottom of the shelving unit and the floor, but could it be enough to add some shoe cubbies?
When I can find what I want with in the affordable or reasonable price, I will buy to save time. But if I need something specific by design or dimensions and can't find it pre-built, I will make it from scratch.. That's simple.
Interesting cost comparison! Thanks!🙂
Build is the way
I would've put my casing on the interior door jamb before install
So without and drawer pulls, knobs etc you need both hands to grab each side of the drawer to open it? There are other easier methods to have drawers open easier that have a clean no handle look. I would have opted for the self closing drawer slides as well.
10:09 i'm sorry to sound like a smartass but rabbets are grooves that are at the edge, making the edge L shaped.
DIY ALL THE WAY!
Maybe you mentioned it but I didn’t hear you. When you were crosscutting with your table saw the rip fence was still on the saw. You had it pushed back but you should remind your viewers using the rip fence and the mitre gage on a through cut could cause kickback.
The shelf clips are in upside down. Flip the L clips over so the L is right-side up. This way, the shelf sits inside the L and prevents the clip from falling out.
Came here for this comment
You’d think someone who has been doing this for many years would know how to sue shelf pins. This guy is a joke
@@tonybeatle he's learning, just like everyone else. Even experts still learn new things every day. Only a fool pretends otherwise.
bet you could have used wood filler to fill in the holes on the home depot closet?
Great build both ways, really like your channel!
Your makin me nervous with your hands so damn close to that saw blade haha.
Happy mother's day, Mom💝
Ikea Aurdal system is similar but a basic config can go as low as $250-300. That said, these options definitely seem like a step up. With a baby and not having enough time to eat let alone build a closet - I'd probably go with the buy option.
I realize this video is over a wk old by the time I’m watching it.. but as far as suggestions go.. I think u shld add another level of hanging storage on one side of the “built” organizer… specifically women have long dresses or coats that need long hanging space but the added row of hanging storage on one side wld be great benefit
The $200 HD closet kit you used is $500 at my HD, making the build-it-yourself perhaps a better comparison.
You could buy two tall book shelves from target and add dresser in between add smaller cubby shelf on top of dresser and put hanging rods in taller book shelves for way cheaper than $500 it cost about $300
This is perfect! I'm planning on remodeling our closet next month. Totally taking ideas from here!
what type of wood was used?
time is money, in my opinion, what you build is amazing and better but to spend $600 is better than spending $200 with 12 hours plus you are a pro, someone like me going to take me more than that
what plywood did you use?
Team, build!❣️
Did you Edge Band the Drawer fronts on the build version? it didn't look like it in the video.
Definitely 2X on cost. Very little material there!
12:55 Casement install against wall -
Build all the way.
That center drawer stack needs to be supported under the long partitions too. The cleat under the shelf could blow out over time since it’s only attached to the shelf above it. You definitely have great skills, just working with an unsafe product.
i love the build one, although shouldn't there be a finish on the wood and wouldn't that add to the time and cost?
Try screwing this supports into
hollow steel studs. It is a nightmare. Any tips?
I'd be all about building the DIY version except I didn't see you put any finish on the plywood. Sanding and finishing all of the pieces are a huge time suck and that is my biggest deterrent to making my own. I'm thinking of going halfway in between and just building DIY using melamine.
Build over buy, because you can’t really customize to your situation. But both are good options.
Another $20 for edge banding on the build drawer fronts seems to be a no-brainer to me.... I prefer the DIY approach, looks great!
I liked the buy option better because aesthetically it looked nicer, less 'rough'. I think if you had stained/painted the wood of the build option, it would have made a huge difference.
How big were the cleats at the top that are holding the shelf?
Would love to send you a video of how we do these in Australia give you ideas
What plywood did you use for the build? I am looking to make my first closet build because I want to learn how to build things around the house.
Excellent as always👌
Great video! One thing to consider is the store bought is a crappy MDF/Particle Board and your version is real wood. I'll take real wood any day.
My main concern is the wood quality. The reviews I've read online about the home depot closet are poor. The mdf seems sure to fail right?
I always think it like: You're paying for the convenience. Buy one = ready to go. Build yourself one, takes longer AND we're not all that experienced to do it ourselves. Besides, you should factor the hourly wage for the 12-16 hours. That would even out the cost. Even with the added cost of hourly wage, the build set wins because you can customize it easily. Different wood panel, more shelves or more coatracks.
Definitly BUILD !!!
That's a dado joint you made with the table saw, not a rabbet. A rabbet is on the edge and removes the material from the edge and face of the material.
The term rabbet was throwing me off too as I thought you were making dado joints, which in fact, you were.
Build and definitely a shoe area at the bottom
My problem is are those pre finished ply or did you leave it as raw wood? And the money you saved on building you could invest in the basic tools and maybe some nicer ones to be ready for other projects if you want. Great video.
This is so cool ❤
Great job on both!!!!!
Build 💯 % satisfaction