BUILD vs BUY: DIY Custom Closet System

[@dogface6040]

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.

[@dogface6040]

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).

[@tylrkngns]

Thank you Squarespace and the Home Depot for keeping this national treasure on KZbin. I think I’ve learned more stuff from this guy over the course of my life than from people I actually know

[@matthewxramirez]

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 😂

[@RumMonkeyable]

Both options are great. Because I lack carpentry skills, I'd opt for #1. Thanks, Mike! House is GREAT! 👍👏❤😍🥰

[@johnkenerson71]

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

[@joshpayne4015]

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).

[@JSTX9216]

Yeah it also helps to have a stand alone workshop with a table saw and all that. Seriously?

[@pdubsweir3]

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.

[@justbelit]

i would love to see RTA in ikea pax system since most people don't have tools, the skills or workshop.

[@gotrice5]

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.

[@JFlex76]

Didn't add any paint, stain or varnish time

[@headoverheels88]

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.

[@balorg2007]

@@gotrice5 One way to offset the cost issue of equipment is by purchasing used equipment from either online market places or pawn shops.

[@c.a.g.1977]

Build - sturdier, more options. And gives more satisfaction afterwards, I think.

[@refrigeratortrimkits]

You added extra storage and made it look amazing! Definitely would choose the DIY way.

[@redhorsewordsmith6002]

I vote for build since I usually have a lot more time than money. And practice helps keep improving the looks.

[@BrookeDoesScience]

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

[@redhorsewordsmith6002]

@@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.

[@WeMe83]

If you have more time than money how can you afford the tools and materials needed to build most quality projects?

[@redhorsewordsmith6002]

@@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.

[@averagejoesworkshop]

I would flip those shelf pins around so the wood covers them and uses the leverage to support the weight better.

[@tysongaspard9330]

Agree!

[@jtotheb-ip2hh]

that's how I did it at my house with those same pins.

[@bbikermama]

Thank you! You’ve given me the confidence to diy my closet.

[@therealchupa]

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.

[@treydrier3169]

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.

[@WeMe83]

It seems like a lot of people don’t really value their time. All of their time. Thanks for pointing that out.

[@lindacsmith13]

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!

[@alyssadler6301]

Ok - buy option for me - not equipped to do the build but so enjoy watching you do it - everything is looking so great!!! ❤

[@EcomCarl]

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. 🔧

[@Joe-so6su]

Could always paint the french cleat to match the wall and then it would be hidden even easier.

[@kevinprice2141]

Your shell pins are upside down- rotate them 180 and you won’t see them, and the shelf will hold them tight. 😊

[@ModernBuilds]

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 :)

[@93ahalsey]

The episode I’ve been waiting for!

[@striketochill]

More Buy vs Build videos please!!

[@kimpaynter]

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

[@dogface6040]

According to your numbers, you paid yourself about $50 per hour.

[@jodirauth8847]

The built one is so much better. It is custom and it shows. Custom closets sell houses.

[@stephanieseguin2306]

Build! All day, every day. Love this comparison video, thanks!

[@darrenmooruthv2]

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!

[@dimarozov9802]

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

[@DrunkInPublic]

He does say at the end for all you haters the time vs money cost saving, great build Mike!! 🎉🎉

[@GlennHowardVO]

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!

[@marppp28]

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

[@feelosophy1921]

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.

[@dandrson7903]

I'd go two rods on one side and one higher rod on the other. Very nice.

[@AlexMartinez-tu6bf]

Hi I would do the build version, and that because I love the final finish of something you build yourself. always love your videos.

[@LostBoyLA]

I've never seen veneer wraps either. Seems pretty genius. I'm going to try that next time

[@tangyboi6420]

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.

[@Unrealistic-o9c]

Fantastic. Opting for the kit option. We don't have a huge shop, tools, skills, or patience

[@JSTX9216]

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.

[@mikemoab]

Build over buy, because you can’t really customize to your situation. But both are good options.

[@KeyjiDom]

what type of wood was used?

[@gregmize01]

they drawers you made are a perfect design Mike!

[@Mike_and_Life]

If you have the tools, build. If not, buy. Like most projects

[@JeannieFriesen]

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.

[@JasonACadder]

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.

[@mandmnickels6653]

Came here for this comment

[@tonybeatle]

You’d think someone who has been doing this for many years would know how to sue shelf pins. This guy is a joke

[@JasonACadder]

@@tonybeatle he's learning, just like everyone else. Even experts still learn new things every day. Only a fool pretends otherwise.

[@Dev_2R]

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.

[@oreobenavidez953]

I have to say I like your build better cause it seems better and sturdy great job

[@michaell7545]

Super Pro!! Love it bro. Love your energy. Great video. 🎉

[@PatCavanaugh1]

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.

[@barrysoper9183]

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.

[@philshock3805]

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.

[@philliphinkle2812]

I like the build of course because I too am a builder which is why I found your KZbin 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.

[@Danman1972]

Check out next level carpentry and look up his Goat outfeed stands. Pretty slick. Also, yes softside full extension is awesome for luxury.

[@MartyinPS]

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 🙂

[@sbraudrick]

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!

[@melissabreedlove8211]

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

[@anothersiguy]

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.

[@mikeseldomridge8052]

Build is the way

[@carminfrancisco9512]

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.

[@malloryjohnson6192]

I’m needed this video comparison! Thank you so much!

[@CommanderMarsh]

I have to stay for the jingle every time

[@rosebruton10]

Build and definitely a shoe area at the bottom

[@Maatjuhhh]

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.

[@mountaingal5555]

The $200 HD closet kit you used is $500 at my HD, making the build-it-yourself perhaps a better comparison.

[@celinaquiros9381]

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! ;)

[@sarabrown4596]

BUILD. FOR SURE! What kind of ply did you use? Getting ready to make some for our new home. 💪🏽

[@Zerrudo_]

DIY ALL THE WAY!

[@neddyboy01]

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.

[@tjones2446]

The term rabbet was throwing me off too as I thought you were making dado joints, which in fact, you were.

[@mandimusic5109]

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

[@naturalgalwilliams]

Happy mother's day, Mom💝

[@silviakeidel8187]

Interesting cost comparison! Thanks!🙂

[@aaronalquiza9680]

10:09 i'm sorry to sound like a smartass but rabbets are grooves that are at the edge, making the edge L shaped.

[@hondawilky]

Pretty sure you’re putting those shelf pegs in upside down, Brother. They sit like an “L” not a “7,” if that makes sense. That way the shelf itself prevents the peg from backing out from the weight of the shelf. Also makes them pretty much invisible once the shelf is in.

[@beeker28]

i thought this as well, thats how i use them. if you use them like the L the shelves arn't flush with the side. so i dont know

[@snwboardn21]

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!

[@NateCreed]

This is perfect! I'm planning on remodeling our closet next month. Totally taking ideas from here!

[@MFD541]

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.

[@jorgemota4338]

Why is he yelling at me 😂😂😂

[@amaro15]

I would consider taking into account the difficulty level of each. Probably an inexperienced person will take 20% more time to build the pre fab version, and end with a similar result. But they would take twice or even more to make the custom made version, plus they investment on tools needed [even if rented] and they will most likely end up with a finish product with many imperfections. Also, knowing how to do most of the things you do with the custom one require time to learn and practice, which in turn cost money [of you consider time is money] So I would always recommend the inexperienced user to go for pre fab as it guarantees a better end result and the cost is lower than a custom made one.

[@whyunoshutup]

This was such a good idea for content. I also hat predrilled holes, go DIY!

[@RushWorkingMan]

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.

[@mama_p_nz8233]

I'd be going build, I'd enjoy that alot more.

[@wussboyd1]

Your makin me nervous with your hands so damn close to that saw blade haha.

[@naturalgalwilliams]

Team, build!❣️

[@marcchidiac92]

Would love to send you a video of how we do these in Australia give you ideas

[@MrCbayboyz]

Build 💯 % satisfaction

[@kyliejohn3813]

Build all the way.

[@Suzieq5446]

I like the built closet but the buy was also nice.

[@inconsisstence]

Dude definitely pulled out the "oh, I can build that."

[@Xerute]

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.

[@alankita1059]

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?

[@Kingdamien6660]

Definitly BUILD !!!

[@sooome9294]

Build for sure.

[@stant2687]

$500 for a MDF bookshelf that bolts to wall is crazy

[@karimgomez6933]

I prefer diy. Store bought are not very sturdy. I would take measurements to the store and let them cut it for me. Thanks for sharing.

[@Veronica-kd9cb]

This is so cool ❤

[@TheBillyo13]

Great video, mate. Will you do a video putting doors on your closets? (If you are putting doors on).

[@debrad5783]

How big were the cleats at the top that are holding the shelf?

[@beeker28]

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?

[@MisterDivineAdVenture]

Definitely 2X on cost. Very little material there! 12:55 Casement install against wall -

[@michaelloman8227]

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.

[@AB-nu5we]

Mike, instead of a full time outfeed table of your table saw, consider Bow Products XT Xtender fence instead (not an affiliate) table saw fence. I just purchased one and, with the infeed _and_ outfeed supports, it's really slick. Saves a lot space too. Love the closet storage comparison. Build for me, unless time is critical.

[@jerrywoodlee2345]

I don't have the tools to build, so I would have to buy the DYI cabinets.

[@goleft4088]

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?

[@mohedaicebear]

Really great video havent seen many like this, sucha goid comparison and totally a good look at what can pols forst diy project

[@autumn__girl35]

Excellent as always👌