Replacing outdated kitchen cabinets can update the look of your kitchen and increase the value of your home. While new cabinets are an investment, the project can be done affordably by replacing just the old metal cabinet doors and fronts while keeping the existing cabinet boxes. With some new hardware and a fresh coat of paint, metal kitchen cabinets can be given an inexpensive facelift. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to replace old metal kitchen cabinets on a budget.
Assessing Your Existing Cabinets
Before replacing your metal kitchen cabinets, examine their current condition to determine if they are good candidates for a makeover.
Check for Rust and Corrosion
Inspect the cabinets for signs of rust or corrosion, especially along the bottom and around any exposed metal edges. Rust can spread and severely damage metal over time. If the metal is heavily corroded, it may need more extensive repairs or full replacement.
Test for Looseness
Open and close all the cabinet doors and drawers and give them a gentle wiggle to check for loose hinges or glides. If the cabinets are loose, tightening the hinges and other hardware can help extend their life.
Look for Previous Damage
Check for any dents, holes, or other damage on the cabinets. Minor dents can be filled in, but major damage may call for replacement.
Assess the Structure
Make sure the underlying cabinet boxes are sturdy and securely attached to the walls. Try removing a door to inspect the condition of the box itself. The boxes provide the foundation for the cabinets.
If the bones of the cabinets are in good overall shape with only minor cosmetic issues, replacement cabinet doors and fronts will give them an updated look.
Choosing New Doors and Drawer Fronts
Once you determine your existing metal cabinet boxes are salvageable, the next step is selecting new cabinet doors and drawer fronts to update the look. There are several options to choose from:
Wood
Wood cabinet doors provide a warm, traditional look. Different wood types like oak, maple, and cherry have varying grains and colors to match your kitchen’s style. Unfinished wood doors need to be sanded, primed, and painted onsite.
Thermofoil
Thermofoil cabinet doors have a vinyl layer over a wood substrate to mimic a painted wood look with fewer chipping or scratching issues compared to real wood. Thermofoil provides an affordable option to wood that is still high quality.
Laminate
Laminate cabinet doors offer an inexpensive option that resists chipping, scratching, heat, and moisture damage. Formica and other plastic laminates come in hundreds of colors and patterns.
Metal
Metal cabinet door replacements can enhance a contemporary, industrial look. Options like stainless steel, aluminum, and galvanized steel work well in modern kitchens.
Be sure to measure each door and drawer front area carefully to get replacements that fit properly. Standard sizes are usually available. Take notes on your cabinet sizes, hinge locations, and handle placements to replicate the original layout.
Removing the Old Metal Cabinet Doors
Once you have the new cabinet door replacements on hand, you’re ready to remove the old metal cabinet doors and drawer fronts. This process will go smoother with some helpful tips:
Clear Countertops and Remove Doors
Clear everything off your countertops and out of the cabinets so you have full access. Remove all doors, shelves, and drawers from the cabinets prior to beginning the installation. Place drawer slides, hinges, and screws in labeled bags for reinstallation later.
Protect Surrounding Areas
Cover countertops, floors, and other surfaces with drop cloths to prevent damage from tools and hardware. Use painter’s tape to mask off areas around the cabinets.
Loosen Hinges and Handles
Take out all screws from the hinges, handles, and drawer glides, using a cordless drill or screwdriver. Maintain pressure on the doors as the final screws come out to prevent them from dropping.
Detach Doors and Drawers
With all screws removed, lift old doors off the hinges and set aside. Slide drawer fronts up and off the drawer boxes. Stack doors neatly to keep them organized for potential reuse.
Go slowly to avoid damaging cabinets or handles. Label pieces with painter’s tape as they are removed. Now the cabinet boxes are ready for some freshening up prior to installing the replacement doors and drawer fronts.
Preparing Cabinet Boxes
Your existing cabinet structure provides the foundation for your kitchen’s new look. Proper prep work on the boxes is crucial before hanging new doors and drawers.
Clean Surfaces
Wash cabinet interiors and exteriors using a degreasing cleaner or mild soap and water solution. This removes built-up dirt and oils so new paint adheres well. Let everything dry completely.
Fill Holes and Imperfections
Examine the cabinet boxes closely and use wood filler to patch any holes, gouges, or cracks with a putty knife. Sand smooth after drying.
Sand Down Boxes
Lightly sand cabinet exterior surfaces to rough them up for painting. A 120-150 grit sandpaper works well. Wipe away all dust with a dry cloth.
Prime and Paint Boxes
Apply 1-2 coats of high-quality primer to the sanded boxes and drawers, including the cabinet interiors. Once dry, follow up with 2 coats of semi-gloss cabinet paint for a smooth finish.
Thorough prep and painting provides a fresh backdrop to show off your new cabinet doors beautifully.
Hanging New Cabinet Doors
Once the boxes are prepped and painted, you’re ready to install the new replacement doors. Follow these tips for smooth installation:
Establish Level Line
Measure up from the floor and use painters tape to mark a level line along the top of the wall cabinets. This keeps the doors aligned. Use a 4 ft. level tool to double check.
Insert Hinges in Doors
Attach new hinges in the pre-drilled holes on replacement doors, centering them to align with the marks left from removing old hinges. Use a drill or screwdriver to securely fasten.
Mount Doors on Boxes
Place doors onto cabinets, lining up hinge holes. Have a helper hold doors in place. Insert screws through the door hinges into the cabinet frame to mount them.
Adjust and Test
Open and close doors to test alignment and fit. Make any necessary hinge adjustments to get proper clearance and door closing. Add shelf clips and reinstall shelves and drawers once doors are on.
Follow the same steps to install new drawer fronts and pulls to finish the kitchen’s transformation.
5 Top Tips for Replacing Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Replacing old metal kitchen cabinets can feel like a daunting task, but these pro tips will help it go smoothly:
- Measure carefully before purchasing replacement doors and fronts to ensure proper sizing. Standard sizes are usually available.
- Protect surrounding surfaces like walls and countertops from damage during the removal process.
- Label cabinet pieces and hardware as you disassemble them to simplify reassembly later.
- Sand and paint existing cabinet boxes to provide a fresh, seamless look after installing new doors.
- Get helpers for holding doors in place while screwing in new hinges to make hanging easier.
Frequently Asked Questions About Replacing Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Looking to replace your outdated metal kitchen cabinets? See the answers to these common questions for helpful information:
How much does it cost to replace kitchen cabinets?
The cost can range from $100-$300 per cabinet door, depending on the material. Thermofoil or laminate doors provide an affordable upgrade. Having a pro install custom cabinetry costs $300-$500 per door.
Can I replace cabinets without replacing countertops?
Yes, you usually can keep existing countertops and replace just the cabinet doors and fronts to cut costs. Make sure to measure carefully for proper fit.
What is the easiest way to replace kitchen cabinets?
Keeping cabinet boxes and replacing doors and drawer fronts is the simplest route, as opposed to removing entire cabinets. This avoids plumbing or electrical work.
Should I replace cabinets before selling my house?
Replacing worn cabinets can potentially increase a home’s sale price significantly. Even replacing just the doors can give your kitchen an updated, well-cared for look for buyers.
How do I make old cabinets look new again?
Sanding, filling holes, priming, and painting cabinet boxes makes them look fresh. Combine with new hardware and replacement doors to provide an affordable kitchen facelift.
Replacing old metal kitchen cabinets by installing new doors and drawer fronts can update your space dramatically. With proper planning and preparation, this project can give your kitchen a stylish new look while being budget-friendly.
Conclusion
Upgrading worn or outdated metal kitchen cabinets is an impactful upgrade that can modernize the look of your home’s kitchen. By keeping the existing cabinet boxes, you can replace the doors, fronts, and hardware affordably. Careful measurement, proper door prep, and meticulous installation are key factors for a seamless finished look. With some time and effort, you can breathe new life into worn metal kitchen cabinets and increase your home’s value. Consider enlisting an experienced contractor if the scale of the project feels overwhelming. Their expertise can ensure proper installation. Investing in a kitchen cabinet makeover is a worthwhile project that yields beautiful, long-lasting results.