Choosing to update your kitchen cabinets is an exciting endeavor that can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen space. For those with metal kitchen cabinets, updating them provides an excellent opportunity to inject your kitchen with a fresh, modern style. While metal kitchen cabinets offer great durability, their style can become dated over time. With some thoughtful planning and elbow grease, you can update metal kitchen cabinets to give your kitchen a stylish facelift. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, offering tips and considerations for updating metal kitchen cabinets.

Assessing Your Existing Metal Cabinets

Before you decide on how to update your metal kitchen cabinets, take some time to carefully assess their current condition. This will help determine the scope of your cabinet makeover project.

Here are some factors to consider when evaluating your existing metal cabinets:

Overall Condition – Check if the cabinet boxes and doors are structurally sound, with no signs of damage or wear. Examine hinges and drawer glides for smooth operation.
Layout – Do the existing cabinets still work efficiently for your kitchen layout and lifestyle? If not, you may want to reconfigure the layout.
Size & Spacing – Measure the existing cabinet sizes and spacing between them. This will assist with planning updated configurations.
Door Style – Assess if the cabinet door style still aligns with your kitchen aesthetic. New door styles can completely transform cabinets.
Hardware – Take note of the existing cabinet hardware (handles, knobs, hinges, etc). Updating hardware is an easy cabinet upgrade.
Finish/Paint Condition – Determine if the current finish or paint is worn, damaged or outdated. Refinishing or painting metal cabinets is often the easiest update.

Thoroughly checking over your existing metal kitchen cabinets will tell you which components need updating, and help choose the best overhaul options.

Clean Cabinets for Optimal Results

Before making any updates to your metal kitchen cabinets, be sure to thoroughly clean them to prepare the surfaces. This will allow new finishes, paints or adhesives to properly adhere for a quality finished look.

Follow these steps to deep clean metal cabinets before updating:

Remove all contents from cabinets and drawers to access all interior surfaces.
Wash cabinet interior surfaces with a mild detergent solution. Avoid harsh cleaners.
Use a degreaser to clean any greasy or grimy areas on exterior and interior surfaces.
Scrub all surfaces with an abrasive sponge or cloth to remove residues.
Use a metal cleaner/polish on unpainted metal finishes to remove oxidation and prepare the surface.
Rinse all surfaces thoroughly and wipe dry with a clean cloth.
Allow cabinets to fully dry before applying any new finishes or paint. Moisture will prevent proper adhesion.
Consider lightly sanding surfaces to improve adhesion and remove any gloss or clear coats from existing finishes.

Proper cleaning preps your metal kitchen cabinets for your updating projects, resulting in a revitalized kitchen.

Updating Metal Cabinet Doors

Replacing or refacing your existing cabinet doors is one of the most effective ways to update the look of your metal kitchen cabinets. Cabinet doors make up the majority of the visible surface area, so installing new doors provides instant transformation.

Some popular options for updating metal cabinet doors include:

New metal doors – Switch out dated metal doors for new stainless steel or aluminum doors with modern, sleek styles.
Glass doors – Install glass insert panels to create an open, airy look and show off cabinet contents.
Wood doors – Opt for real wood doors in warm stains to soften a metal kitchen’s cool tones.
Painted doors – Coat metal doors with paint in your choice of glossy or matte sheens. White is ideal for light and bright kitchens.
Laminate doors – Choose affordable laminate doors in countless colors and patterns for quick and easy updating.

When installing new cabinet doors during your update, make sure to use proper hinges and hardware that coordinate with the new style. Take accurate measurements of existing cabinets to ensure proper door sizing and alignment.

Refinishing Metal Cabinets

Refinishing your existing metal cabinet boxes and doors is a budget-friendly option to update the look of your kitchen. Refinishing allows you to alter the color and sheen of metal surfaces without the expense of full cabinet replacement.

Here are some recommended options for refinishing metal cabinets:

Powder coating – Powder coating applies colored polymer resin through an electrostatic spraying process. This is very durable and available in any color.
Metal paint – High quality metal paints can give great results. Sand surfaces thoroughly before priming and painting.
Stain – For a richer, stained wood look, use staining products made specifically for metal. Multiple coats may be required.
Metal laminates – Self-adhesive laminate sheets can easily update metal cabinets with wood grain or colored finishes.

When refinishing, make sure to thoroughly clean and prep metal surfaces so the new coating properly adheres. Remove doors, drawers and hardware to simplify the refinishing process. Carefully follow coating manufacturer instructions.

Update Cabinet Hardware

A quick and easy upgrade that can modernize the entire look of your metal kitchen cabinets is updating the hardware. Replace dated metal handles and knobs with more stylish options in finishes like brushed nickel, oil rubbed bronze or matte black.

Some guidelines for updating metal kitchen cabinet hardware:

Choose handles and knobs that coordinate well with your overall kitchen decor.
Select durable hardware designed for high use areas like kitchens.
Make sure new knobs and handles properly fit existing hardware cutouts and mounting configurations.
Continue the same finish and style throughout for consistency.
Use cabinet hardware to add personality and visual interest through shapely silhouettes and unique materials.

Take time to thoughtfully select cabinet hardware that complements your updated metal kitchen cabinets. The right hardware provides the finishing touch on your new cabinet style.

Add Decorative Trim

Affordable decorative trim presents another easy option to give your existing metal kitchen cabinets a quick makeover. Self-adhesive trim can be added to cabinet edges and door frames to introduce color, conceal flaws or simply give your space a refreshed look.

Some best uses for decorative trim when updating metal cabinets include:

Concealing visible seams – Cover any unsightly gaps where cabinets meet walls or other cabinets.
Framing doors – Frame cabinet doors with trim to draw the eye and add depth.
Accenting colors – Use trim to highlight cabinet edges in an accent color that complements your space.
Matching new cabinets – Coordinating trim can help new and existing cabinets flow together.
Defining cabinetry – Frame cabinet edges to help them stand out better against wall colors.

Measure carefully before installing trim strips to ensure they properly fit the areas you want to cover. Take your time when applying to prevent air bubbles. Decorative trim provides an easy DIY solution for upgrading metal cabinets.

Add New Interior Organizers

Don’t forget about your cabinet interiors when updating your metal kitchen cabinets. Installing new organizational elements inside your cabinetry ensures optimal functionality to complement updated outward aesthetics.

Consider incorporating organizers like:

Adjustable shelves to customize storage space
Pull-out spice racks for easy access to cooking items
Vertical dividers for neatly arranging baking sheets and pans
Tiered holders for unused lids and cookware lids
Cutlery trays and utensil dividers for properly storing flatware
Deep drawers with compartments for organizing tools and appliances
Plastic containers to hold bulk dry goods like flour and sugar

Take measurements and experiment to find the right mix of organizational additions tailored to your cooking needs and cabinet dimensions. A few simple upgrades make all the difference in effectively storing items and enjoying your updated metal cabinets.

Add Under Cabinet Lighting

No kitchen update is complete without proper lighting. For metal cabinets, under cabinet lighting can provide ideal task lighting over countertops and illumination inside cabinets. LED strip lighting comes in sleek, energy efficient options perfect for installing under cabinets.

Here are some benefits of adding under cabinet lighting when updating your metal kitchen cabinets:

LEDs come in varied options – colored, dimmable, motion sensor, remote controlled
Provides directed lighting for kitchen tasks like food prep and cooking
Thin LED strips and pucks mount easily under cabinet overhangs
Gives additional lighting without taking up counter or ceiling space
Can highlight decorative elements like glass cabinet doors or trim
Low voltage and minimal heat won’t damage metal cabinetry
Provides a modern accent to enhance new cabinet updates

Carefully measure and map out the lighting layout. Look for LED strip or puck lights made for metal surface installation to ensure they properly affix. Illuminating your updated metal cabinets makes your new kitchen shine.

Consider Cabinet Layout Changes

For more extensive metal cabinet overhauls, altering the existing kitchen layout is an option requiring additional time and DIY skills. But opening up cabinet configurations or reworking traffic flow can greatly improve a kitchen’s functionality.

Potential layout changes include:

Removing upper cabinets to create an open airy look
Widening spaces between cabinets for easier multi-user food preparation
Moving sink or appliances to improve kitchen work triangle
Adding cabinetry like islands or built-in pantries for expanded storage
Creating better symmetry by redistributing existing cabinetry
Optimizing cabinet dimensions with adjustments like pie-cut corners
Incorporating features like rollout trays and pullout shelves

Take careful measurements and create a detailed cabinet layout plan before alterations. Factor in existing plumbing and electrical. Layout changes involve adjustments to flooring, walls, lighting and backsplashes. But for homeowners with the skills and time, alterations can take your updated metal cabinets to the next level.

Consult Cabinet Refacing Services

For DIYers with limited time or skills for extensive metal cabinet overhauls, a great option is hiring professional cabinet refacing services. Reputable companies have expertise in remodeling existing cabinets with stunning new finishes and features.

Benefits of hiring cabinet refacing services include:

Consultations to determine best solutions for your kitchen
Skilled carpenters and technicians to ensure quality workmanship
Ability to handle extensive refacing projects
Professionally spray finishes for flawless, durable results
Access to wide range of specialty materials and customized options
Coordination of any needed layout modifications
Availability to reface just cabinets or full kitchen remodels
Decreased project time compared to DIY refacing

While pricier than DIY, quality professional refacing typically costs significantly less than full cabinet replacement. Refreshing your metal cabinets can be simpler with the help of experienced refacing specialists.

Updating Metal Kitchen Cabinets: Final Thoughts

Updating your kitchen doesn’t have to mean starting completely from scratch. With some creativity and effort, those dated metal cabinets can go from eyesore to the shining focal point of your kitchen. Implement one or several of these metal cabinet updating tips to craft a kitchen that looks and functions better than ever before.

FAQs About Updating Metal Kitchen Cabinets

What is the easiest way to update metal kitchen cabinets?

The easiest ways to update metal cabinets are installing new cabinet doors, changing hardware, refinishing surfaces, adding trim, and installing under cabinet lighting. These simple upgrades make a noticeable impact without complex renovations.

Can you paint over metal kitchen cabinets?

Yes, metal kitchen cabinets can be painted over to change their color and finish. Be sure to clean and lightly sand cabinets first to prep the surface. Then apply quality metal primer followed by metal paint in your color of choice. Allow proper drying time between coats.

Should I replace or reface my metal kitchen cabinets?

If your cabinet boxes and frames are in good structural shape, refacing just the doors and drawer fronts can provide a fresh look for less cost. But for severely damaged or dated cabinets, full replacement may be better. Assess your needs and budget to decide.

What are some good colors for metal kitchen cabinets?

For metal cabinetry, lighter neutral colors like white, beige and light gray work well. They prevent the space from feeling too dark and “cold” from the metal. Bold hues can look great on metal but avoid going too dark. Always complement your cabinet color with suitable countertops.

What kind of paint adheres best to metal cabinets?

The best types of paint for proper adhesion on metal are oil-based and industrial-grade enamel spray paints. Both provide the durable finish needed for high-use cabinet surfaces. Avoid latex and acrylic paints which can chip or peel. Always apply metal primer first.

How do you soften the look of metal cabinets?

Some easy ways to soften the harsh look of metal cabinets include: installing wood or glass cabinet doors, applying warm wood laminate finishes, adding wood trim accents, painting cabinets in lighter hues, replacing hardware with bronze/nickel, and installing soft lighting under cabinets.

Do metal or wood cabinets last longer?

On average, high-quality metal cabinets are more long-lasting than wood cabinets due to their durability. But well-built wooden cabinets with proper care and maintenance can also provide many years of reliable service. Overall, metal cabinetry can better resist scratches, moisture, and other impacts.

Can I put wood veneer over metal cabinets?

Yes, it is possible to adhere real wood veneers over existing metal cabinetry using professional-grade contact cement adhesives. Make sure the metal surface is properly cleaned and sanded first. Wood veneer offers an affordable way to get an authentic wood look while preserving your cabinet boxes.

What thickness of wood should I use to redo cabinets?

For refacing cabinets, a veneer thickness of 1/8 to 1/4 inches is common. Solid hardwood panels should be 3/4 inches thick and joined correctly for durability. Plywood panels are also suitable at a 1/2 to 3/4 inch thickness. The exact wood thickness depends on the refacing methods.

Are metal or wood cabinets more expensive?

Generally, metal cabinets tend to be more expensive upfront than basic wooden cabinets. But higher-end wooden cabinetry with premium features and finishes can also be costly. Over time, metal cabinets often recoup some of their higher initial investment from lower maintenance needs and longer lifespans.

Conclusion

Updating your metal kitchen cabinets provides an excellent opportunity to reinvigorate the style and function of one of the most used spaces in any home. Whether a simple paint job, hardware swap or extensive remodeling, this guide covers numerous options to transform your outdated metal cabinetry. With some vision and elbow grease, you can upgrade your metal kitchen cabinets without breaking the bank. Just remember to thoroughly plan your project and engage professional help if needed. Follow the tips outlined to craft your dream kitchen from the metal foundation already in place. With stunning new metal cabinets as a focal point, you can create a warm, welcoming kitchen space your family and friends will gather in for years to come.

How to Update Metal Kitchen Cabinets