Painting metal cabinets can refresh your kitchen or bathroom on a budget. With the right prep work and painting technique, you can get a smooth, professional-looking finish using spray paint. Here’s how to get great results when spray painting metal cabinets.
Choose the Right Paint
The key to getting spray paint to adhere properly and look good on metal is using paint specifically formulated for the job. Look for these features when selecting spray paint for metal cabinets:
Adhesion for Metal
Make sure the spray paint is designed to bond well to slick, non-porous metal surfaces. The label should indicate it’s intended for metal, iron, steel etc. Adhesion promoters in the formula help it cling.
Enamel Finish
An enamel paint will dry to a harder, more durable coating than standard spray paint. The glossy finish resists chipping, fading, and stains better than other paint types.
Rust Protection
Since you’re painting metal, pick a paint that contains rust inhibitors to prevent corrosion and rust from developing under the paint over time.
Variety of Sheens
Metal spray paint comes in gloss, satin, matte and hammered finishes. Consider the final look you want before purchasing your paint.
Color Options
Most brands offer a wide array of color choices from neutrals to bold hues. Make sure to get enough cans in the color you want to cover all your cabinets.
Premium Brands
Invest in a quality, name-brand paint from Rust-Oleum, Krylon or Valspar for best results on metal. The cheaper brands may not adhere as well or produce as attractive a finish.
Proper Surface Prep
Preparing the cabinets is the most important step for getting the paint to adhere correctly. Here’s how to prep metal cabinets for painting:
- Remove doors, handles and hinges. Take doors off the hinges to paint separately. Removing hardware prevents drips and overspray.
- Clean thoroughly. Use a degreaser to remove any oils or residue. Rinse and let dry fully.
- Sand lightly. Use 220 grit sandpaper to scuff up the surface and help the paint adhere.
- Wipe clean. Use a tack cloth to remove any dust after sanding before priming or painting.
- Apply primer. opt for a primer made for metal that will act as a base coat for the paint.
- Let primer dry fully. Follow the recommended drying time before painting over primer.
Proper prep removes any barrier between the paint and metal surface for optimal adhesion. Make sure to thoroughly clean, lightly sand, and apply a compatible primer coat.
Best Practices for Spray Painting Cabinets
Follow these tips when spray painting metal cabinets for a flawless, professional-grade finish:
- Work in a well-ventilated area and use a respirator mask. Spray paint fumes are strong.
- Shake the can vigorously for at least one full minute before spraying. This mixes the paint thoroughly.
- Hold the can 6 to 8 inches from the surface when spraying. Get the right distance for even coating.
- Use light, even spray strokes and keep the can the same distance from the surface. Don’t wave the can around.
- Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick, heavy coat. Thin layers create a smoother finish.
- Allow proper dry time between coats as recommended on the label. Rushing the process risks drips and runs.
- Spray horizontally first, then vertically for full, smooth coverage with no missed spots.
- Finish with long, sweeping spray strokes all in the same direction for a seamless look.
Proper spray paint technique ensures the paint bonds tightly and provides maximum coverage for a flawless finish on metal.
How to Avoid Common Problems with Spray Painted Cabinets
These simple steps can help you avoid some typical issues when spray painting metal:
- Don’t paint in humid, cool or damp conditions. Wait for a dry day to avoid paint drying issues.
- Apply enough coats (5-6 coats is typical). Too few coats leave visible brush strokes.
- Don’t try to get full coverage in one pass. Build up thin layers for best results.
- Watch out for drips by holding the can the proper distance from the surface.
- Avoid painting in direct sunlight or on hot surfaces which can cause paint to dry too fast.
- Use steady, even motions and not a sweeping motion to prevent uneven coverage.
- Rotate doors often while painting to cover all angles and prevent paint build up in corners.
Proper spray paint technique and monitoring weather conditions prevents common spraying mishaps like drips, uneven coverage and texture.
Caring for Spray Painted Cabinets
While spray paint offers a durable finish, follow these care steps to help your painted metal cabinets look their best:
- Allow the full 2-week curing time before cleaning or using cabinets. This helps paint fully harden.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners. Use a mild soap and water instead to clean painted cabinet exteriors.
- Re-apply a fresh coat of spray paint periodically as needed when you notice wear, chips or fading.
- Touch up any nicks or damage spots immediately to prevent rust or deterioration.
- Consider applying a clear sealer for added protection, especially for cabinets in high-use areas.
With proper prep, application and care, spray painted metal cabinets can look freshly updated for years before needing a redo.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of spray paint works best on metal cabinets?
Look for enamel paint in a gloss, satin or matte sheen designed specifically for use on metal surfaces. Adhesion-promoting formulas with rust inhibitors work best for coating and protecting metal cabinetry.
What sheen should I choose for my kitchen cabinets?
Gloss paint offers the most durable and reflective surface but shows more imperfections. Satin is a good middle ground with some shine while hiding flaws well. Matte has a more worn, vintage look but requires gentler cleaning.
How long does spray paint take to cure?
Most spray paint will be dry to the touch in 1 hour but takes up to 2 weeks to fully cure and reach maximum hardness and durability. Avoid heavy cleaning or use during this period.
Should I use primer before spray painting metal?
Yes, metal primer helps the paint adhere tightly for a smooth finish. Make sure the primer is compatible with the spray paint finish coat.
How many coats of spray paint do metal cabinets need?
5-6 thin, even coats typically provides ideal coverage and durability. Allow proper drying time between coats. Too few coats leaves a streaky, thin paint job.
Proper preparation, spraying technique and ongoing care will help you get great results spray painting metal cabinets. With a little time invested, spray paint provides an affordable way to give dated metal cabinets an updated, fresh look.