How to Remove Metal Kitchen Cabinets to Paint Them - Outdoor Cabinets

Painting your kitchen cabinets can transform the look of your kitchen quickly and easily. For metal kitchen cabinets, you’ll need to remove the doors and hardware to properly prepare the surfaces for painting. With some time and effort, you can have stunning painted metal cabinets to refresh your space.

An Introduction to Painting Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Painting metal kitchen cabinets allows you to update the look of your kitchen without the expense of a full remodel. With a fresh coat of paint, you can change the color of your cabinets to give your kitchen a whole new style. Paint also provides an easy way to hide scratches, damage, or discoloration on your existing metal cabinets.

Before painting metal cabinets, the first step is removing the cabinet doors and hardware. This gives you access to all the surfaces and allows the doors to lay flat for optimal painting results. It also ensures no hinges, knobs, or handles get accidentally painted in the process.

When removing and painting metal cabinet doors, there are some key steps to follow:

Use screwdrivers to detach hinges and remove doors and drawers. Label pieces so you can reattach in the right spots.
Take off all hardware like knobs and handles and store safely until it’s time to reinstall.
Thoroughly clean and sand cabinet frames, doors, and drawers to prepare for primer and paint.
Apply a high-quality primer formulated for metal. Allow to fully dry.
Add multiple coats of cabinet paint in your chosen color, allowing drying time between coats.
Once fully cured, reattach the doors, drawers, and hardware using your labels for accuracy.

With proper prep work, priming, and painting, you can achieve professional-looking results painting metal kitchen cabinets on your own. The remainder of this article will cover the process step-by-step.

Gathering Your Painting Supplies

Before starting the cabinet removal process, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand:

Screwdrivers: You’ll need standard and Phillips head screwdrivers to remove hinges and hardware. It’s helpful to have multiple sizes to fit all screw types.
Painter’s tape: Used to tape off areas you don’t want painted. Blue tape for interiors works well.
Drop cloths: Canvas drop cloths protect your floors and countertops from paint drips and spills.
Sandpaper: Light to medium grit sandpaper (120-220) smoothes cabinet surfaces for painting.
Tack cloth: Used after sanding to remove all dust before priming or painting.
Paint tray and supplies: Such as brushes, mini paint rollers, paint tray liners, etc. High-quality options create a smoother finish.
Cabinet primer: Water-based bonding primers made for metal adhere paint best.
Cabinet paint: Durable enamels or acrylics formulated for cabinet painting work well.
Labeling system: To mark door locations once removed. Painter’s tape with a pen works.

With these supplies on hand, you’ll be fully prepared to start the cabinet removal and painting process.

Safely Removing Metal Cabinet Doors and Drawers

Once you have gathered all your supplies, you’re ready to start removing cabinet components to prep for painting. Follow these steps to safely detach your metal cabinet doors and drawers:

1. Remove Any Shelving and Contents

Take out all shelving inside the cabinets along with any contents stored on them.
Set shelves aside carefully wrapped in drop cloths so they don’t get damaged. Empty the cabinets completely.

2. Label Each Component

As you remove doors, drawers, and hardware, use your labeling system to mark the location.
Painter’s tape with a marker works well for labeling the hanging location on the back of doors or inside frames.

3. Detach Door Hinges

With a screwdriver, fully loosen any visible hinge screws. Support doors as you unscrew hinges.
Lift doors off once all hinges are detached and set aside for sanding/painting.

4. Pull Out Glide-Out Drawers

Fully extend any rollout or glide drawers. Lift up to detach the drawer from the rails and remove fully.

5. Remove Handles and Knobs

Use a screwdriver to take off all cabinet pulls, handles, or knobs from doors and drawers.
Place hardware pieces in a bag or bin so no parts get misplaced.

6. Repeat for Entire Kitchen

Systematically work your way around the entire kitchen, labeling and removing components from all cabinets.

Work slowly and methodically. Having an organized approach makes it easier to reinstall everything in the proper spots later.

Prepping Metal Cabinets for Painting

With all the doors, drawers, and hardware detached, now you can start prepping the cabinet surfaces for painting. Proper preparation is crucial for getting an even, smooth painted finish.

Follow these steps to prep metal cabinets for painting:

1. Wash With Soap and Water

Wipe down all cabinet frames, doors, backs of doors, and drawers with a mild soap and water solution.
This removes surface grease and grime so primer and paint properly adhere.

2. Lightly Sand Surfaces

Use 120-150 grit sandpaper and “scuff up” all the cabinet parts to be painted.
This roughens the slick metal finish so paint can grip better. Don’t over-sand.

3. Wipe Away All Dust

Use a dry tack cloth to carefully wipe away fine metal dust left over from sanding.
Remove every last speck of dust to ensure paint doesn’t peel later.

4. Fill Any Holes or Imperfections

Spot fill any scratches, holes, or cracks with wood filler designed for metal. Let dry fully.
Sand smooth once dry. Clean dust away with a tack cloth once more.

5. Apply Painter’s Tape as Needed

Tape off any areas you don’t want painted like countertops, walls, or cabinet interiors.
Remove tape as soon as done painting before the paint fully dries.

After all this prep work, the cabinet components are ready for primer and paint.

Choosing the Right Primer for Metal Cabinets

Primer creates a smooth, consistent base layer for your cabinet paint to stick to. Using the right primer prevents peeling or chipping paint down the road. When it comes to painting metal kitchen cabinets, you want a high-bonding primer specifically made for metal surfaces.

Here are some things to look for when selecting a metal primer:

Metal-Specific Formula: Choose a primer designed specifically for metal over other surfaces. This has stronger adhesion power.
Anti-Rust Properties: Many metal primers also protect against rust and corrosion down the road.
Water-Based Acrylics: Water-based acrylic-latex primers are ideal for cabinet painting vs. oil-based options.
Spray Cans or Standard Paint: Metal primers come in easy spray cans or standard paint formats.
Fast Drying: Opt for a fast-drying metal primer to speed up the painting process.

Some top-rated primer options for painting metal cabinets include:

Rust-Oleum Automotive High Performance Metal Primer
KILZ Adhesion High-Bonding Interior/Exterior Latex Primer
Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Water-Based Interior/Exterior Primer

Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application and drying times with your chosen metal primer. Now you’re ready to start priming your cabinets for paint!

Applying Primer to Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Once you’ve selected the right primer for your metal cabinet surfaces, it’s time to start priming. Follow these application tips for smooth, professional results:

1. Work in a Well-Ventilated Area

Primer and paint fumes can be strong. Keep windows open and use fans in the work area.

2. Read All Label Instructions

Follow the primer directions for best application results. Mix primer if needed.

3. Use Painter’s Tape to Protect Surfaces

Cover any areas you don’t want primer getting on with tape and drop cloths.

4. Start With the Cabinet Frames

Primer the cabinet boxes and frames first before moving on to doors and drawers.

5. Apply With a Brush or Paint Roller

Use a high-quality brush or microfiber mini roller to apply an even coat.

6. Work in Thin, Even Coats

Apply the primer in smooth, thin layers so it dries properly without drips.

7. Let Primer Fully Dry Before Adding More Coats

Allow drying between coats based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

8. Prime Doors and Drawers When Frames Are Dry

Once fully dry, prime the doors, backs of doors, and all drawers thoroughly.

9. Remove Tape Once Dry

Carefully peel off any painter’s tape you applied before the primer fully dries.
Wipe away any drips right away with a damp rag.

Now your metal cabinets have a smooth, primed foundation ready for paint!

Choosing a Durable Paint for Metal Cabinets

Choosing the right type of paint is just as important as the right primer for long-lasting results on metal cabinets. You want a paint that adheres tightly, resists chipping and scratching, and stands up to moisture and grease in the kitchen.

Here are smart paint options to consider for metal kitchen cabinets:

Enamel Paints: Both oil and latex enamel paints hold up well on metal cabinets with a glossy finish.
Acrylic Latex Paint: Water-based acrylic latex paint sticks tightly to primed metal for a smooth look.
Epoxy Paint: Two-part epoxy paints provide the most heavy-duty finish for metal cabinets.
Spray Paint: High quality spray paint made for metal gives great coverage on metal doors and drawers.
Cabinet Paint: Paints marketed specifically for cabinets offer added durability in kitchens.

For most DIYers, a quality acrylic latex enamel cabinet paint will provide the best results on kitchen cabinets. Talk with your local paint retailer about the best options for your particular metal cabinet finish.

Applying Cabinet Paint to Metal Surfaces

When applying your cabinet paint to primed metal cabinets, follow these tips for flawless results:

1. Lightly Sand Primer Before Painting

Once primer is fully cured, use 220 grit sandpaper to lightly “scuff” the surface.
This helps the paint bond tightly. Wipe away all dust with a tack cloth when done.

2. Use High-Quality Brushes and Mini Rollers

Look for brush styles made for smooth, seamless trim and cabinet work.
Microfiber mini rollers help paint doors evenly.

3. Work in Thin, Even Coats of Paint

Never brush or roll on thick coats. Several thin coats provide the best look.

4. Allow Proper Dry Times Between Coats

Follow manufacturer’s guidelines, typically 4-6 hours between coats.

5. Inspect for Smooth Coverage Before Adding More Paint

Make sure each coat dried evenly without drips before adding another layer.

6. Apply At Least 2-3 Coats for Best Durability

The minimum for most cabinet paints is 2 coats, but 3 is better for high-traffic kitchens.
Adding extra coats builds up the paint film for a stronger finish.

7. Remove Painter’s Tape Promptly Once Done Painting

Pull off tape as soon as you finish painting each section before the paint fully dries.
Use a damp rag to wipe up any wet paint that seeped underneath.

Take your time with the painting process to end up with a professional, durable finish on your metal cabinets. The extra coats and proper drying times are worth the effort!

Reinstalling Doors, Drawers and Hardware

Once your cabinet paint has fully cured according to the manufacturer directions, you’re ready for the final step – reassembling all the components! Refer to your labels and follow these tips:

1. Work Methodically Around the Kitchen

Start reinstalling items in one section of cabinets at a time to stay organized.

2. Attach Hinges Back Onto Doors First

Refer to labels and screw hinges back into the pre-drilled holes using a screwdriver.

3. Rehang Doors and Ensure Smooth Operation

Hang doors back on frames and make sure they open and close smoothly without sticking.

4. Install Drawer Slides and Insert Drawers

Attach drawer slides back into cabinets frames and place drawers on them. Test gliding action.

5. Add Back Knobs, Pulls, and Handles

Using a screwdriver, install all hardware components like drawer pulls, knobs etc.

6. Clean Up Cabinet Interiors

Wipe down shelves and tidy up cabinet interiors before putting contents back.

Take a step back and admire your freshly painted metal kitchen cabinets! Enjoy this simple kitchen makeover.

Frequently Asked Questions About Painting Metal Cabinets

Many homeowners have additional questions when painting metal kitchen cabinets. Here are answers to some of the most common queries:

Should I remove cabinet doors and drawers or just paint in place?

It is highly recommended to fully detach the doors and drawers prior to painting. This allows you to paint the cabinet frames, doors, sides and fronts evenly and prevents paint build up in hinges or hardware.

How long does it take for primer and paint to fully dry and cure?

Exact drying times depend on temperature, humidity and ventilation along with the specific paint products used. In general, primer and paint dry to the touch in 1-2 hours but take 16-72 hours to fully cure and harden before reassembly.

How do I clean metal cabinets prior to painting?

Use a mild detergent and warm water to clean grease and grime from metal cabinet surfaces. Avoid aggressive cleaners or abrasives. Rinse and let dry fully before sanding or priming.

Should I scuff sand metal cabinets before priming?

Lightly “scuff sanding” with 120-220 grit sandpaper helps primer and paint adhere best to slick metal cabinet surfaces. Just a quick sanding is needed – don’t overdo it.

How do I get a smooth paint finish on metal cabinets?

Proper prep work, high quality primer and paint, applying multiple thin coats, allowing proper drying time between coats, and using good brushes and mini rollers will help you achieve smooth painted metal cabinets.

Achieve a Flawless Painted Cabinet Finish

With the right products and some perseverance through the preparation, primer, and paint steps, you can achieve stunning DIY painted metal kitchen cabinets. Just think of how great your kitchen will look after your fresh paint makeover!

Remember to work slowly and methodically. Rushing through steps like detachment, sanding, priming or painting will show in the final results. Take your time and don’t skip any recommended drying times. The finished product will be well worth the effort you put into this simple kitchen update.

Soon you’ll have a kitchen updated with beautiful painted metal cabinets in any color you desire! Enjoy the renewed look and style.