A metal file cabinet is a sturdy and secure way to store important documents and records. While metal cabinets are built to last, over time they can start to show wear and feel outdated. Updating a metal file cabinet is an easy and affordable way to give it a fresh new look while extending its life. With some simple cleaning, paint, new hardware, and organizational accessories, you can give those old metal cabinets a modern makeover.
Clean and Prepare the File Cabinet for Painting
The first step in updating metal file cabinets is to thoroughly clean the exterior and interior. This removes built-up dirt and grease so the new paint will adhere properly.
Here’s how to clean metal file cabinets:
- Remove all files and folders and empty out the drawers. This gives you access to the interior surfaces.
- Wipe down all inside surfaces with a degreasing cleanser. Scrub away any sticky residues or dirt buildup.
- Clean the outer surfaces with a multi-surface cleaning spray or degreasing cleanser. Use a microfiber cloth to lift dirt from grooves and details.
- Rinse with clean water and dry completely with a lint-free cloth.
- Lightly sand any areas of chipped or peeling paint with 220 grit sandpaper. Wipe away sanding dust.
- Clean all drawers, tracks, and hardware. Use a toothbrush to clean grooves and corners.
Thorough cleaning erases years of dirt and oils so the new paint job looks bright and fresh. Proper preparation helps the paint stick tightly.
Apply Primer and New Paint
With the file cabinet clean, it’s ready for a fresh coat of spray paint. Priming first allows the topcoat paint to adhere evenly for a smooth finish.
Here are the steps for priming and painting metal file cabinets:
- Work in a well-ventilated area and lay down tarps or cardboard. Wear protective eyewear and gloves.
- Mask off any areas you don’t want painted, like the interior of drawers. Use painter’s tape and plastic sheeting.
- Spray apply 1-2 coats of metal primer, allowing proper dry time between coats. Lightly sand between coats for maximum adhesion.
- Apply 2-3 thin, even coats of spray paint formulated for metal. Allow each coat to dry completely before adding another.
- Use long, even strokes and keep the can 10-12 inches from the surface. Multiple light coats give better coverage than one heavy coat.
- Remove painter’s tape immediately after the final coat has dried.
Almost any high quality enamel spray paint formulated for metal will work well. Satin or semi-gloss finishes hide fingerprints and scratches better than flat. Darker paint colors help conceal wear over time.
Proper priming and multiple light coats of spray paint keep the finish smooth and durable. New paint transforms tired old file cabinets instantly.
Update Hardware for a Modern Look
Replacing old hardware is a simple way to update the look of metal file cabinets quickly. Swapping out discolored pulls and hinges for new ones makes the cabinets seem fresh and current again.
Here are tips for switching out the hardware:
- Remove old hardware using a flathead screwdriver. Soak screws in penetrating oil beforehand if necessary.
- Clean screw holes out thoroughly and fill any gaps or stripped areas with wood filler. Allow to dry completely.
- Choose new hardware in a modern brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze or matte black finish. Styles like flat bar pulls or minimal knobs give a contemporary look.
- Position new hardware in the original locations. Use a pencil to mark new screw holes if necessary.
- Attach new hardware securely using a screwdriver. Be careful not to over tighten.
- Install drawer stops or soft-close mechanisms for smooth, quiet operation.
For quick updates, replace just the exterior handle pulls. To completely transform the look, also change out drawer slides, hinges, and interior shelf brackets for coordinated finishes.
Simple hardware updates make old metal file cabinets look brand new again. It’s an easy upgrade that delivers instant visual impact.
Add Organizational Accessories
Maximize the storage capabilities of a metal file cabinet with handy organizational accessories. Trays, dividers and bins optimize drawer space while keeping files tidy and accessible.
Here are some organizational accessories to consider:
- Hanging file folders – The classic way to organize documents in file drawers. Use different tab colors for quick identification.
- Dividers – Separate categories of files into sections. Use cardboard, plastic or metal tabbed dividers.
- Expandable file folders – Handy for storing documents, receipts and other loose items. The flexible pockets expand to store more.
- File drawer caddies – Mesh or wire caddies sit on the drawer bottom to neatly corral office supplies, tech accessories and more. Some slide under hanging file folders.
- Drawer liners – Line the bottom of drawers with non-slip mats to keep contents from shifting around. Easy to remove for cleaning.
- Suspension files – Individual foldable envelopes hang from side drawer rails for compact front-to-back filing.
Keep contents neatly separated and easy to locate with divider tabs, caddies, specialty folders and other accessories tailored for file drawers. They take advantage of all available space.
Frequently Asked Questions About Updating Metal File Cabinets
Updating old metal file cabinets by giving them a fresh coat of paint and new hardware can help extend their life and make them look like new again. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about revitalizing metal file cabinets:
What kind of paint should I use on metal file cabinets?
Look for spray paint or enamel paint formulated specifically for smooth metal surfaces. Primer and paint made for metal offer maximum adhesion and durability.
What about rust – how should it be handled before painting?
Light rust can be sanded or scrubbed off before priming. For heavier rust, use a rust converter chemical treatment before priming and painting.
What types of new hardware work best for metal file cabinets?
Opt for hardware finished in brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze or matte black rather than shiny brass. Metal bar pulls, modern knobs and hidden hinges give an updated look.
How do I organize the interior of the drawers once they’re painted?
Use hanging file folders, dividers, drawer caddies and specialty file folders from office supply stores to neatly organize the contents.
Should I paint the interior of the file drawer cabinets too?
For long-lasting results, paint the interiors to match the exterior for a cohesive look. Use cabinet enamel for durable interior paint.
How can I fix any chips or scratches that develop in the new paint over time?
Carefully sand the damaged paint area smooth, wipe clean, spot prime if needed and spray on fresh topcoat paint. Multiple thin coats prevent chips and nicks.
Conclusion
Outdated metal file cabinets are easily updated with some simple cleaning, sanding, priming and a fresh coat of durable spray paint. Replacing old tarnished hardware with new brushed metal finishes gives them a modern style. Drawer dividers, caddies and folders add organized storage.
Reviving old metal file storage cabinets by painting the exterior, replacing the hardware and accessorizing the interior helps extend their life so you don’t have to buy new ones. This cost-effective makeover results in file cabinets that look and function like new.
With some effort, you can give those old metal cabinets a second life. The project is inexpensive compared to the cost of purchasing brand new file cabinets. Your newly updated metal file storage will keep documents organized while complementing your office décor’s style for years to come.