Refinishing metal kitchen cabinets can completely transform the look of your kitchen. Over time, the paint on metal cabinets can start to chip, peel and fade, making your kitchen look dated and worn. Refinishing cabinets is an affordable way to update the style and color of your kitchen without the expense of installing brand new cabinets.
Refinishing metal cabinets is a project that DIYers can tackle at home with some basic tools and materials. The process involves thoroughly cleaning the cabinets, removing the doors and hardware, sanding down the surfaces, priming, and applying new paint. While it does take some time and elbow grease, refinishing cabinets is an achievable project for most homeowners.
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to refinish metal kitchen cabinets, as well as tips for choosing new paint colors and techniques for achieving a smooth, professional-looking finish. With these instructions, you’ll be well on your way to revitalizing your kitchen with gorgeous new cabinets.
Step-by-Step Guide for Refinishing Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Supplies Needed
- Drop cloths
- Painters tape
- TSP substitute or other degreasing cleaner
- Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit)
- Sanding block
- Tack cloth
- Primer (oil-based or bonding primer)
- Paint (alkyd enamel, latex enamel or cabinet paint)
- High-quality angled paint brush
- Mini foam rollers and roller tray
- Rags
- Paint thinner or mineral spirits (for oil-based paints)
Prep Work
Before refinishing the cabinets, you’ll need to do some prep work to get the surfaces ready for new paint.
1. Remove cabinet doors and hardware. Use a screwdriver to detach hinges and remove all doors, drawers and hardware (handles, knobs). Remove doors carefully to avoid damage. Label hardware and doors so you can reattach everything properly later.
2. Clean surfaces thoroughly. Mix up a solution of TSP substitute or other degreasing cleaner and warm water. Scrub down all cabinet surfaces, doors, and frames, focusing on areas with grease buildup. Rinse with clean water and let dry completely.
3. Repair damage or flaws. Inspect cabinet surfaces and use wood filler to patch any holes, gouges or flaws in the metal. Sand smooth once dry.
4. Sand cabinets. Use 120 grit sandpaper to rough up the metal surfaces. This helps the new paint adhere properly. Be sure to sand inside cabinet boxes and frames in addition to external surfaces.
5. Wipe away dust. Use a tack cloth to remove any dust left over from sanding.
Painting the Cabinets
Now you’re ready to apply primer and paint for a flawless, updated finish.
6. Apply primer. Use an oil-based primer or bonding primer to ensure the best adhesion on metal. Apply a thin, even coat with a high-quality angled brush and let dry completely.
7. Lightly sand primed surfaces. Use 220 grit sandpaper to smooth any drips or uneven areas on the primed cabinets. Wipe away dust with a tack cloth.
8. Paint cabinets. For metal kitchen cabinets, an alkyd enamel, latex enamel or specialized cabinet paint will provide the most durable finish. Use a small foam roller and angled brush to apply two coats of paint, allowing thorough drying between coats. Work methodically to maintain a “wet edge” and avoid lap marks.
9. Paint doors. Lay cabinet doors on sawhorses for painting. Use spray paint or apply with a foam roller for best coverage on recessed panel doors. Let doors dry completely before reattaching.
10. Reinstall doors and hardware. Once paint is fully cured, attach doors, drawers, and hardware using a screwdriver. Refer to labels if needed to get everything in the right spot.
11. Touch up paint. Inspect for any final flaws and use a small brush to touch up paint as needed.
Tips for Choosing Paint Colors
Choosing the right paint color is key to achieving your dream kitchen. Here are some tips when selecting a color for refinishing metal cabinets:
- Opt for light, neutral colors to give the kitchen a bright, airy feel. Popular choices include white, light gray, cream, taupe and beige.
- Add visual interest by painting upper and lower cabinets different colors. Try white uppers with navy lowers.
- Look at cabinet hardware finishes to find an on-trend paint color. Aged brass pairs well with gray-greens while nickel looks modern with gray.
- Bring in colors from an accent wall or tile backsplash. Complementary hues will give the kitchen cohesion.
- Be aware that darker colors show more flaws. Stick to lighter shades if your cabinets need flawless coverage.
- Test paint swatches on cabinet surfaces and view at different times of day. Lighting affects color.
- Opt for a matte, eggshell or satin finish rather than high-gloss, which magnifies imperfections.
Techniques for a Flawless Painted Finish
Applying cabinet paint properly is crucial for getting an ultra-smooth finish without brush marks or drips. Follow these techniques for professional results:
- Maintain a wet edge as you paint. Work from one end of the cabinet to the other without stopping to prevent lap marks.
- Use a high-quality angled sash brush for cutting in edges and painting trim. A mini foam roller works best for applying paint to flat areas.
- Roll paint on vertically first, then smooth with light horizontal strokes. Pull the roller in the same direction for the smoothest finish.
- Work methodically and systematically. Paint sides and frames before doors and drawers for optimal drying time.
- Apply thin, even coats of paint and allow proper drying time between coats. Rushing the job leads to drips and errors.
- Sand lightly between coats to smooth out any imperfections or texture from the previous layer of paint.
- Clean brushes and rollers thoroughly after each use for best results over multiple painting sessions.
- Finish with a final inspection and use a small brush to touch up any flaws, drips or uneven areas.
FAQs About Refinishing Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Should I remove the cabinet doors before painting?
Yes, removing the cabinet doors, drawers and hardware before painting makes the job much easier. It allows you to fully access the cabinet boxes and frames when prepping, priming and painting. Laying doors flat on sawhorses prevents drips when painting.
What type of paint should I use on metal cabinets?
An alkyd enamel, latex enamel or specialized cabinet paint will give the most durable, flawless finish on metal cabinets. Avoid low-quality paints which can look streaky or uneven.
Do I need to use primer?
Primer is highly recommended when refinishing metal cabinets, especially if changing colors significantly. Primer helps paint adhere properly and prevents the topcoats of paint from reacting with the original finish.
How long does it take for cabinet paint to cure?
Most cabinet paints take 2-3 weeks to fully cure and harden. Avoid opening/closing doors or placing dishes and accessories inside during this period. Touch up paint as needed after full curing.
Should I paint the cabinet interior?
The cabinet interiors do not necessarily need to match the exterior color. A light neutral shade or the original interior color are both fine for inside cabinet boxes. Focus painting efforts on visible exterior surfaces.
How do I avoid brush marks and an uneven paint finish?
Use high-quality applicators, apply thin coats of paint, and use proper painting techniques like maintaining a wet edge and smoothing strokes with light vertical and horizontal rolls. Sanding between coats also eliminates imperfections.
What sheen should I use for cabinet paint?
A satin, eggshell or matte paint finish hides imperfections best on cabinets. Glossy paints magnify any flaws in the surface and are prone to showing drips. Semi-gloss is also acceptable, but higher sheens are not ideal.
Conclusion
Refinishing metal kitchen cabinets allows you to revive the look of your kitchen without the expense of new cabinetry. With some supplies, elbow grease and proper techniques, you can achieve a smooth, flawless painted finish. Carefully follow the steps for cleaning, prepping, priming and painting the cabinets for best results. Select a light, on-trend paint color that complements your kitchen decor. With this complete guide, you’ll be ready to tackle this DIY project and love the dramatic transformation of your newly refinished cabinets.