Enhancing Outdoor Entertaining with Outdoor TV Cabinets with Doors

Outdoor entertaining reaches new heights when you add an outdoor TV to your patio or deck. However, protecting your investment in an outdoor TV requires a weatherproof cabinet with secure doors to keep out the elements. Choosing the right outdoor TV cabinet ensures your TV stays safe from weather and theft while allowing easy access for al fresco viewing.

Shield Your Outdoor TV from Rain, Sun, and More

Investing in an outdoor television means paying a premium for weather-resistant technology. Exposure to moisture, humidity, sunlight, wind, and temperature extremes can reduce the lifespan of even rugged outdoor TVs. An outdoor TV cabinet with tightly-sealed doors provides necessary protection.

Outdoor TV cabinets keep televisions safely stored when not in use and ensure the sensitive electronics remain dry. Tight rubber seals prevent moisture ingress. Vents in cabinets allow airflow to prevent overheating on hot days while keeping out water.

Cabinet doors also protect the TV screen from windblown dirt and debris. And you don't have to worry about rain or snow landing directly on the display. Closing the doors secures the TV inside, shielding it from the storm.

Deter Theft and Vandalism

Another benefit of an outdoor TV cabinet with doors is enhanced security. The exorbitant cost of outdoor TVs makes them an attractive target for theft. Lockable cabinet doors deter theft and vandalism.

Most outdoor cabinets come with locks on the doors to restrict access. Wall-mounted cabinets anchored securely to the house exterior are even more secure. Freestanding cabinets can be locked to deck posts or weighted down to prevent grabbing and running.

Keep Out Dust and Insects

Doors on outdoor television cabinets also help keep pests and dust away from the TV. Screens attract insects, which can enter the delicate electronics through ventilation grates. Tight-fitting doors prevent most bugs from entering.

Dust can harm outdoor TV components over time. Closing the cabinet doors avoids windblown dirt and debris accumulating inside. An occasional wipe down cleans away any dust that enters.

Choose the Right Outdoor TV Cabinet

Selecting the optimal outdoor TV cabinet ensures your television stays protected. Consider the size, structure, materials, placement and additional features when choosing an outdoor TV cabinet.

Size to Fit Your TV

First, pick a cabinet sized to snugly fit your outdoor television. Measure the width, height and depth of your TV, then add a few inches clearance. Too much extra interior space allows the TV to shift and vibrate.

Be sure to account for any protrusions on the back of the TV like inputs or vents. And consider the depth needed for connections and wiring. Leave enough room inside the cabinet for ventilation around the TV.

Wall-mounted cabinets typically offer a little more flex room versus freestanding models. But you want the cabinet to be as close to TV dimensions as possible.

Freestanding or Wall-Mounted

Freestanding outdoor TV cabinets sit securely on decks or patios, either on legs or flush to the floor. They easily reposition to adjust viewing angles.

Wall-mounted cabinets anchor directly to exterior walls just like indoor TVs. This provides rock-solid protection. But you lose flexibility in placement.

Freestanding cabinets work well if you want to angle the TV towards a seating area. Wall mounts permit installing at the ideal viewer height. Just ensure the wall material adequately supports the weight.

Weather Protection Level

Think about typical weather exposure in your region. Outdoor TV cabinets range from providing basic rain and moisture protection up to extra-strong waterproofing.

If you experience mostly light rain, a standard cabinet suffices. In wet climates or oceanfront regions, opt for heavy-duty waterproof cabinets. These seal tightly against driving wind and rain.

Look for cabinets promoted as weather, water, or even hurricane-proof if your area sees extreme storms. The highest water protection employs marine-grade seals and construction.

Match Your Outdoor Space

Select an outdoor TV cabinet style and color that complements your exterior spaces. Contemporary cabinets in black powder-coated aluminum blend into modern settings. Stainless steel cabinets add a sleek accent.

For backyard cottages or rustic patios, an antique white or wood-grained finish looks right at home. Custom cabinets even allow incorporating reclaimed barn wood for a stylish touch.

Consider a neutral color like black, white or gray if your outdoor decor changes seasonally. Or pick a vibrant tone as an eye-catching focal point.

Additional Features

Look for extra cabinet features that enhance convenience and functionality:

• Glass windows - Allow viewing the TV with doors closed
• Internal lighting - Illuminates the interior when open
• Adjustable/removable shelving - Stores devices and remotes
• Integrated sound bar mounts - Clean look with centered audio
• Ventilation fans - Prevent moisture buildup inside

Tips for Installing Your Outdoor TV Cabinet

Follow these tips to enhance enjoyment and longevity when installing your weatherproof outdoor TV cabinet:

• Select a smart TV with built-in WiFi and streaming apps to avoid extra equipment.
• Connect cables and cords through the cabinet vents for clean, hidden wiring.
• Use cable locks and thermoplastic mounts to securely attach the TV inside.
• Aim vents downward to prevent water dripping onto the TV.
• Apply weather stripping along the doors for an extra-tight seal.
• Caulk around cables and mount holes to prevent water ingress.
• Consider a surge protector to safeguard against electrical spikes.
• Elevate freestanding cabinets in flood zones.
• Angle wall cabinets to reduce screen glare.

Regular maintenance keeps your outdoor TV cabinet in top shape:

• Inspect door seals and reapply weatherstripping as needed.
• Check exterior for cracks; reseal with waterproof caulk.
• Test cabinet ventilation and fan operation.
• Clean cabinet interior periodically with compressed air.
• Ensure all hardware and mounts remain tight.
• Lubricate door hinges annually.
• Protect metal cabinets and hardware from rust.
• Replace damaged gaskets and screens right away.

An outdoor TV covered by an empty cabinet looks like wasted potential. With the right weatherproof cabinet, your outdoor TV can entertain family and friends for years. Protect your investment while enhancing patio and poolside fun with a secure, tightly-sealing outdoor TV cabinet.

Outdoor television cabinets let you fully utilize your outdoor TV. Follow these tips when selecting, installing and maintaining an outdoor TV cabinet to keep your television safe from sun, rain, dirt, and damage.

Invest in a rugged, weatherproof outdoor TV cabinet with secure, tight-fitting doors to extend the life of your investment. Choose a cabinet sized specifically for your television that matches your exterior decor.

Proper installation like sealing openings and elevating freestanding cabinets prevents water ingress. And be diligent about regularly checking and maintaining cabinet seals, ventilation and hardware.

You can leave your television outside knowing it will be protected. Enjoy your outdoor entertainment worry-free while keeping your TV safe from the elements.