Removing old wallpaper from metal kitchen cabinets can be a tedious and time-consuming task, but with the right techniques and tools, it can be accomplished. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to effectively remove wallpaper from metal kitchen cabinets.
Assess the Wallpaper Type
The first step is to assess what type of wallpaper is currently on your metal kitchen cabinets. There are a few common wallpaper types:
- Vinyl wallpaper – This is a non-porous plastic-coated wallpaper. It is water-resistant and doesn’t absorb water.
- Mylar wallpaper – This type has a metallic foil finish and is also non-porous.
- Traditional wallpaper – This kind is made of porous materials like paper or non-woven materials. It absorbs water easily.
Identifying the type of wallpaper will determine what removal methods will be most effective. Vinyl and mylar wallpapers require chemical removers, while traditional wallpaper may come off with just water or steam.
Gather the Right Removing Tools
Once you’ve identified the wallpaper type, gather the appropriate tools to remove it:
- Chemical wallpaper stripper – For vinyl or mylar wallpapers, a store-bought chemical remover is the most effective. Make sure it is safe for use on metal.
- Wallpaper scoring tool – This helps perforate the wallpaper surface for easier removal.
- Wallpaper steamer – Steam helps soften the adhesive behind traditional wallpaper. Using a steamer is gentler on metal cabinets.
- Wallpaper scraper – A scraper can help peel off the wallpaper after steaming or scoring. Opt for a plastic one to prevent scratching metal.
- Water sprayer – For traditional wallpaper, a spray bottle with water can help saturate the paper.
- Protective gear – Wear gloves and safety goggles when using chemicals or steamers.
Prepare the Metal Cabinets
Before removing the wallpaper, prepare the metal kitchen cabinets to make the process easier:
- Clear out all cabinets and shelves so all surfaces are accessible.
- Remove cabinet doors, handles, and hardware if possible. This gives you better access to remove wallpaper from the cabinet frames.
- Cover the countertops and floor around the cabinets with drop cloths to protect from drips or debris.
- Have a trash bag ready to collect and contain any mess.
Remove the Wallpaper
With your tools gathered and cabinets prepped, you’re ready to tackle removing the wallpaper:
For Vinyl or Mylar Wallpaper
- Apply a chemical wallpaper remover evenly across the surface of the wallpaper, following product instructions.
- Let the chemical sit for the recommended amount of time to penetrate the vinyl or mylar. This breaks down the adhesive.
- Use a plastic wallpaper scraper to gently peel off the wallpaper. Apply more chemical remover to stubborn areas.
- Once wallpaper is removed, wash the cabinets with an all-purpose cleaner and water to remove any chemical residue.
For Traditional Wallpaper
- Use a wallpaper steamer or spray bottle to saturate the wallpaper surface with hot steam or water. This helps activate the paste adhesive.
- Use a scoring tool to perforate the moistened wallpaper. Make holes all over to help lift up edges.
- Peel back loose edges gently with a plastic scraper. Apply more steam or water as needed to keep the paper saturated.
- Continue slowly peeling off the wallpaper, replacing steam/water as needed until all paper is removed.
- Clean the cabinets thoroughly with a multi-surface cleaner and rinse with water.
Clean and Prep the Cabinets
Once the wallpaper is removed, there may be residual adhesive left behind on the metal cabinets. Here are some tips for prep work:
- Use mineral spirits or adhesive remover to break down any leftover wallpaper paste or adhesive.
- For stubborn spots, scrub gently with steel wool or a plastic scrub pad. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Rinse the cabinets well using clean water on a microfiber cloth after any chemical cleaners.
- Let cabinets dry fully before attempting to apply any new finish or paint.
- Sand or degloss cabinets if applying a new paint finish. Wipe away dust.
- Prime metal cabinets before painting to improve paint adhesion.
With the proper supplies, techniques, and prep work, those outdated metal kitchen cabinets can be wallpaper-free and ready for a fresh new look! Let the wallpaper removal begin.
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Wallpaper from Metal Kitchen Cabinets
What is the easiest way to remove wallpaper from metal cabinets?
For traditional paper wallpaper, using a steamer to soak and loosen the adhesive before scraping off the paper is the easiest and safest method. For vinyl or mylar wallpapers, a chemical remover designed for metal surfaces will help liquefy the adhesive for easy removal.
What should I avoid using on metal cabinets?
Avoid abrasive tools like steel wool or scouring pads as they may scratch metal surfaces. Also avoid alkaline chemicals and harsh solvents like paint thinner that can damage metal over time. Stick to plastic scrapers and cleaning products formulated for metal use.
Can I use a heat gun instead of a steamer?
It’s not recommended to use high heat from a heat gun directly on metal cabinets as it can damage the finish. A steamer provides moist heat that is safer for use on metal to loosen wallpaper adhesives.
What if there is old wallpaper adhesive left after scraping off the paper?
Adhesive removers or mineral spirits can help break down residual wallpaper paste. Gently scrub with a plastic scouring pad if needed. Avoid scraping to prevent scratching metal. Make sure to clean cabinets thoroughly after using chemicals.
Should I sand metal cabinets before painting?
Lightly sanding helps degloss and roughen up the surface for better paint adhesion. Wipe away dust, then prime and paint metal cabinets. Avoid heavy sanding that can damage the metal surface.
How long should I let metal cabinets dry after removing wallpaper?
It’s important metal cabinets are fully dried before painting or applying a new finish. Allow at least 24 hours of drying time after cleaning off any wallpaper paste or adhesive chemicals. The drier the better for proper paint adhesion.
Removing wallpaper from kitchen cabinets takes some work, but the end result is worth the effort. With patience and the proper techniques and tools, those dated metal cabinets can soon be refreshed and looking like new again. Just take it step-by-step to uncover their beautiful metal finish.