Is It Cheaper To Build Or Buy A Closet System?

If you're searching for a way to organize your closet once and for all or just love the idea of everything having a place, it may be time for a closet system. With a wide range of options, materials, features, and setups available, you can mix and match to create the perfect storage system, whether you have a massive walk-in closet all to yourself or share a reach-in with your partner. But creating the closet of your dreams is, perhaps unsurprisingly, not always cheap. There are generally two options: picking up a pre-fabricated closet from the local hardware store that you install yourself – starting around $395 – or having a professional install a system created and customized for you. 

But which option is actually cheaper? You might think the answer is obvious. But in fact, it isn't — and the reason why is worth investigating. Essentially, it all comes down to a few factors, including your DIY skills, materials, and timeline. Considering these realities is key to making the right decision for your closet.

With closet systems ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, there's a lot to consider when deciding whether DIYing or calling a pro is the best option. First, examine your timeline. Do you need to get this done quickly or can you take your time on the project? If you need to get it done ASAP, can you take time out of your schedule to make it happen or do you need to hire professional help?

Next, what kind of materials do you want? Materials in premade systems, like plywood, are less expensive than hardwood, and usually easier on your wallet. Hardwood, on the other hand, may have the particular look that you want. Deciding what type of materials you want to use will also affect the next factor: your DIY skills. If you're handy around the house and have the right tools, you're equipped to measure, cut, and install your closet system (versus using prefabricated systems that come pre-cut). If you aren't handy, that doesn't mean your only option is to buy a prefabricated system, though. It just means you may need to gather resources to build it yourself, and it may take a little more time.

The last things to consider are the over-arching pros and cons of building versus buying. For example, one major benefit of building your closet system is being able to personalize the exact look, design, and function you want with the materials and hardware you love. On the other hand, you'll need to have the right tools handy or rent them from your local hardware store, which can add to your budget. Buying a prefabricated set-up, like one of the popular closet systems from IKEA, can be helpful, because you likely already have the tools you need to install it on hand and it's generally easier to assemble. But it may not be as customizable as you like.

At the end of the day, determining whether building or buying a custom closet system is cheaper comes down to the individual homeowner and their vision for their closet, timeline, and resources. If you're looking to get something installed quickly and easily, a prefabricated system may be the best, but if you want a little more customization, spending a little more may be worth it.