Refacing your outdated metal kitchen cabinets can completely transform the look of your kitchen without the high cost of a full remodel. With some simple DIY techniques, you can give your cabinets a fresh new facade that makes them look brand new. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to reface metal kitchen cabinets.
Assessing Your Existing Cabinets
Before starting any refacing project, you’ll want to thoroughly examine your existing cabinets to determine if they are good candidates for refacing.
- Check that the cabinet boxes and frames are structurally sound with no signs of damage or wear. Damaged boxes will need repairs or replacement.
- Confirm that cabinet doors, drawers and hardware are still fully functional. Replace any broken or worn components.
- Look for signs of leaks, water damage or separation from the wall. Address any moisture issues before refacing.
- Test to make sure cabinets are securely fastened to the wall studs. Resecure any loose cabinets.
If the underlying cabinets are in good shape overall, then refacing is a great option to give them new life.
Clean Cabinets Thoroughly
Once you’ve deemed your metal cabinets suitable for refacing, the next step is to clean them really well from top to bottom. Here’s how:
- Remove all doors, shelves and hardware. Number items to ensure proper reinstallation later.
- Clean interior surfaces with a degreasing agent or mild soap and water.
- For exteriors, use a metal cleaner or mild abrasive pad to remove grime and grease buildup.
- Clean all hardware in a vinegar and baking soda solution. Scrub and rinse thoroughly.
- Allow all surfaces to fully dry before refacing. Address any rust issues on metal.
Thorough cleaning will provide the best surface for your new finishes to adhere properly.
Choose a Refacing Method
There are several options for refacing metal kitchen cabinets:
Painting
- Pros: Inexpensive, easy DIY project, wide variety of paint colors.
- Cons: Needs frequent repainting to look fresh. Prone to chips and scratches.
Wood Veneer
- Pros: Real wood look, stains nicely, durable with polyurethane finish.
- Cons: More labor-intensive installation, susceptible to moisture damage.
Heat-Activated Laminate
- Pros: Extremely durable, scratch resistant, easy application. Hundreds of colors and patterns.
- Cons: Higher material cost than paint. Needs special tools.
New Doors and Drawer Fronts
- Pros: Whole new look and custom style. Many affordable options.
- Cons: Existing cabinet frames remain visible. Time-intensive installation.
Consider how much DIY work you want to take on, your budget, and the finished look you hope to achieve.
Prep and Reface Cabinet Exteriors
Once you’ve selected the best refacing method for your goals, it’s time to start the refacing process on the exterior cabinet surfaces:
- Sand surfaces lightly to rough up the finish for better adhesion.
- Clean away all dust with tack cloth.
- Apply primer if painting or coating cabinets. Allow to fully dry.
- Cut veneer, laminate or other materials to size using a sharp utility knife and metal ruler.
- Spread adhesive evenly over cabinet surface and apply new finishes per product instructions.
- Use a J-roller and hand roller to smooth out all air bubbles and wrinkles.
- Install new doors and hardware once finishes are completely cured.
- Seal wood veneer with two coats of protective polyurethane.
Take your time with each step for the best finished look.
Reface Cabinet Interiors
The interiors of your cabinets also deserve some TLC. Here are simple upgrade options:
- Adhere peel-and-stick vinyl to cabinet floors, sides and ceilings for an easy makeover.
- Stain or paint shelves and interior surfaces for a cohesive look.
- Install organizational inserts like slide-out shelves, spice racks or lazy susans.
- Add interior LED lighting for better visibility. Battery-operated or hardwired installation.
- Replace old hinges and shelf brackets with modern metal finishes.
Even minor upgrades to cabinet interiors can make your whole kitchen feel refreshed.
Tips for a Successful Refacing Project
Follow these top tips for getting the best results from your metal kitchen cabinet refacing project:
- Take doors and drawers offsite for refinishing to prevent damaging other surfaces.
- Reface cabinet frame fronts for a seamless, built-in look. Keep sides and backs a matching paint color.
- Use high-quality primer, adhesive and finish products to ensure long-lasting results.
- Let all finishes fully cure between steps before reassembling. Follow all dry times.
- Work slowly and carefully for an even finish free of bumps, drips or uneven seams.
- Finish with new knobs, pulls, hinges and handles for a completely updated look.
- Keep countertops, appliances and backsplashes neutral to let your refreshed cabinets stand out.
With some diligent prep work, patience and the right materials, you can entirely transform the look of tired metal kitchen cabinets on a budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of paint is best for refacing metal cabinets?
High-quality enamel, epoxy or urethane paints formulated specifically for metal are best for refacing metal cabinets. Avoid latex or acrylic paints which don’t adhere well.
Can I put new wood veneer over existing metal cabinets?
Yes, wood veneer made of thin sheets of real wood can be applied over metal cabinet surfaces with contact cement adhesive to achieve a wood look.
What adhesive works best for heat-activated laminate?
You’ll need to use a specialty adhesive formulated for use with laminates that activates and sets when heat is applied using an iron or laminate roller.
Should I take doors and drawers offsite for refacing?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to remove components for refinishing offsite. This prevents overspray or damage to nearby surfaces like countertops or floors.
How do I get rid of grease buildup on metal cabinets?
Degrease thoroughly with a citrus degreaser, then use a mild abrasive pad dampened with more degreaser to scrub off baked-on grease. Rinse clean.
Conclusion
Refacing metal kitchen cabinets using paint, wood veneers, heat-activated laminates or new doors can drastically update the look of your kitchen at a fraction of the cost of a full remodel. With some elbow grease and attention to detail, you can complete this project yourself over a weekend. Just be sure to properly prep and clean cabinets, work methodically and use high-quality materials to achieve professional-looking results. The transformation will amaze you!