Assess the Cabinets
Start by taking a close look at the current condition of your metal cabinets. Check for any structural damage, rust, flaking paint or grease buildup. This will help you determine how much work is needed. Pay attention to the hinges, doors, shelves and drawers as well.
Make notes on areas that need repairs or extra cleaning. Having an overview of the issues will make the process easier.
Clean the Cabinets Thoroughly
Give the metal cabinets a deep clean before starting any cosmetic work. Fill your sink or tub with a mixture of warm water and dish soap. Use a sponge or soft cloth to wipe down the cabinet exteriors, removing any dirt, grease or sticky residues.
For the interiors, use a degreaser spray or diluted all-purpose cleaner. Scrub with a nylon brush and rinse everything thoroughly. Wipe down any wood shelves or surfaces too.
Let the metal cabinets dry completely before moving onto sanding or priming. Proper cleaning is crucial for successful paint adhesion.
Sand the Cabinets
Now it’s time to scuff up the surface of the metal cabinets. This helps the new paint stick better. Start by lightly sanding the cabinets using 220 grit sandpaper. You don’t need to remove all of the existing paint, just rough it up a bit.
Pay extra attention to any glossy areas or chipped paint. Sand those patches down to remove any shine or loose paint edges. Clean off the dust thoroughly after sanding.
For badly rusted areas, you may need a stronger 80 grit sandpaper and to sand down to the bare metal. But avoid over-sanding if possible.
Repair Structural and Hardware Issues
Before painting, fix any hardware or structural problems you noted earlier. Tighten loose hinges and replace any missing screws. Remove doors and drawers to repair off-site if needed.
Use car body filler to patch small holes or dents. Sand and smooth the filler once dry. For deeper dents, you may need to apply several coats of filler, allowing each to fully cure before sanding.
If the original hardware is intact, remove it and soak in white vinegar or CLR to clean off tarnish and gunk. Scrub with a small brush. Rinse and dry fully.
Prime the Metal Cabinets
It’s crucial to apply primer before painting metal. The primer helps the new paint adhere properly. For best results, use a dedicated metal primer like Rust-Oleum Clean Metal Primer. Apply with a foam roller in thin, even coats.
Two or three coats of primer usually works well for metal cabinets. Let each coat dry fully before adding another. Lightly sanding between coats will create a smoother finish.
Once the final coat has dried for at least 24 hours, the cabinets are ready for painting.
Paint the Cabinets
Now you can give those dull metal cabinets a fresh new look! For the paint, opt for a high-quality cabinet, trim or appliance paint. Semi-gloss sheens are ideal for kitchens and baths.
Before painting, lightly sand any rough primer areas. Thoroughly wipe and tack cloth the cabinets to remove dust. Apply the paint in thin coats, using a small foam roller or high quality brush. Allow each coat to dry fully before adding another.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on dry time between coats. Typically 2-3 coats of paint does the trick for full coverage. Be patient and allow the final coat to cure for several days before reinstalling the doors and hardware.
Reinstall Doors, Shelves and Hardware
Once the paint has fully cured, you can start to reassemble everything. Attach the doors, shelves and drawers. Make any hinge adjustments needed for proper alignment.
Install the cleaned hardware using a drill or screwdriver. Attach knobs and handles tightly but don’t over tighten. Check that doors and drawers open and close smoothly.
Finally, give the freshly painted cabinets a good wipe down to remove any dust. You can now load everything back in and enjoy your restored metal cabinets! With some elbow grease, they will look good as new.
FAQs About Restoring Metal Cabinets
How do you prepare metal cabinets for painting?
Proper prep is crucial for a long-lasting finish. Clean the cabinets thoroughly with a degreaser. Lightly scuff up the surface with 220 grit sandpaper. Repair any dents or holes, and sand smooth. Remove doors, handles and hardware. Wipe away all dust before priming.
What kind of primer should I use on metal cabinets?
For best adhesion, use a dedicated metal primer like Rust-Oleum Clean Metal Primer. Other options are spray-can primers or quality oil-based primers. Avoid basic dollar store primers which may not bond well.
Should I remove the doors and hardware before painting cabinets?
Yes, you’ll get the best looking (and easiest!) results by removing the doors, handles, hinges and shelves before painting. Lay them on a dropcloth to spray or brush the primer and paint.
How do I get rid of rust on old metal cabinets?
For surface rust, sand vigorously with 80 grit sandpaper until all traces are gone. For heavier rust, use a wire brush or sandblaster to remove it down to the bare metal. Wipe with mineral spirits and apply a rust-inhibiting primer immediately.
What sheen of paint should I use on kitchen cabinets?
A satin or semi-gloss sheen works best for cabinets. They are easy to clean and hold up well. Use a high quality acrylic latex paint formulated for cabinets and trim. Avoid flat or matte sheens which show scuffs.
Restoring worn metal cabinets takes some work, but the results are rewarding. With good prep, priming and paint, you can update the look of your kitchen or bath on a budget. Take your time with each step for a smooth and long-lasting finish. Roll up your sleeves and tackle those outdated metal cabinets!
Conclusion
Revitalizing old metal cabinets provides a satisfying DIY project, and an inexpensive way to update the look of your home. With proper cleaning, sanding, priming and painting, you can make dingy metal cabinets look fresh, clean and modern again. The key is taking the time to prep the surface thoroughly before painting. Approach the process with patience, and you will be rewarded with beautiful, restored metal cabinets that add value and style to your kitchen or bathroom.