Clean and Degrease the Cabinets
Give your cabinets a deep clean before making any other changes. Use a degreasing agent like TSP substitute to cut through grease and grime. Scrub both the inside and outside of cabinet doors and frames. This will help anything new you add adhere better.
Add New Hardware
One of the easiest ways to update metal cabinets is by switching out the hardware. Opt for new knobs, pulls, or handles in an on-trend style. Matte black and brass are popular choices right now that can give traditional cabinets a modern twist. Make sure to measure carefully so you get the right size hardware for your cabinets.
Paint the Cabinets
A fresh coat of paint is a budget-friendly way to revamp metal cabinets. You’ll need to sand lightly and use a bonding primer meant for metal before painting. Opt for a semigloss or gloss finish for a smooth, sleek look. White, gray, navy, or even black are all trendy paint colors for modern kitchens.
Install New Doors
For a bigger change, consider replacing just the cabinet doors themselves. New shaker-style doors made of wood can make metal cabinets look completely custom. Have doors made to fit your existing cabinet boxes to save on cost. Opt for a stain that matches or contrasts your current cabinet finish.
Add Molding and Trim
Molding and trim add architectural detail and make metal cabinets look more custom. You can add crown molding at the top for a built-in look. For a modern feel, opt for flat molding on the bottom edge of your upper cabinets. Backband molding around the cabinet perimeter also adds interest.
Change the Hardware Configuration
Altering the hardware configuration is an easy update for metal cabinets. Swap out standard pulls for new cup or bin pulls for a unique look. Also consider two-knob handles instead of pulls. Changing the hardware configuration can make cabinets feel fresh and different.
Install New Countertops
Countertops make a huge impact in kitchens. For metal cabinets, natural stone like granite and quartz offer an elegant contrast. Butcher block or concrete countertops also pair well for a more modern, industrial vibe. Use your new countertop as inspiration for other updates like backsplash and paint colors.
Add Under Cabinet Lighting
Under cabinet lighting instantly makes any kitchen look more updated. LED strip lighting is easy to install underneath metal cabinets, providing task lighting. Go for a daylight white tone for easy food prep. You can also install puck lights for a spot lighting effect. Dimmer switches allow you to control the mood.
Replace Cabinet Interiors
If your cabinet interiors are worn out, replace them with new components like shelves, drawers and inserts. Stock cabinets at home improvement stores now offer lots of specialty storage options. Optimize the space with pull-out shelves, spice racks, tray dividers, and other modern conveniences.
Add New Backsplash
An updated backsplash can transform the look of your metal cabinets. Subway tile, shiplap planks, or hexagon marble are some backsplash ideas that pair well with metal cabinets. Use your new hardware and light fixtures as inspiration for choosing a material and design.
Consider Glass Cabinet Doors
Glass cabinet doors open up metal cabinets and make spaces feel larger. They allow you to display dishes, collectibles or accent lighting inside the cabinets. For a modern vibe, opt for frosted or patterned glass. Or go for clear glass doors to showcase cabinet contents.
With some creativity and elbow grease, you can give dated metal kitchen cabinets new life. Focus on quick fixes like adding hardware and paint first. Then move onto bigger changes like new doors, countertops or backsplash. Updating metal cabinets doesn’t have to break the bank. Use these ideas to create a fresh new look you’ll love.
Frequently Asked Questions About Updating Metal Kitchen Cabinets
What kind of paint should I use on metal cabinets?
You’ll need a bonding primer made for metal like Rust-Oleum’s Clean Metal Primer. For the topcoat, a semigloss or gloss enamel paint will give you the most durable finish.
What’s the easiest update for metal cabinets?
Switching out the old hardware for new knobs and pulls is the fastest and simplest update. New hardware can give cabinets an entirely new look.
Should I have glass doors installed?
Glass cabinet doors open up metal cabinets and make small kitchens appear larger. They allow you to display items inside the cabinets. Frosted or patterned glass diffuses the contents.
What color hardware looks best with metal cabinets?
For a modern look, opt for matte black pulls and handles with metal cabinets. Chrome and stainless steel also look sleek and polished. Aged brass and bronze work well for a more traditional feel.
Can I paint over my existing metal cabinets?
Yes, with proper prep and primer, you can paint over existing metal cabinet surfaces. Make sure to lightly sand and degrease the cabinets first before applying primer and paint.
Will new doors fit on my existing cabinets?
In most cases, yes – you can order new replacement doors made to fit your existing cabinet boxes. This allows you to get a brand new custom look without replacing the whole cabinet system.
What kind of molding can I add to metal cabinets?
Crown molding at the top and trim along the bottom edges of the cabinets can give metal cabinets a built-in custom look. Backband trim around the cabinet perimeter is another way to add architectural detail.
What’s the best way to refresh cabinet interiors?
Replacing worn shelves, draws and inserts with new components is the easiest way to renew interiors. Stock cabinets now offer lots of specialty storage options like pull-outs and tray dividers.
How difficult is it to install under cabinet lighting?
Under cabinet LED strip lighting is quite easy to install yourself using adhesive. Just stick on the lights and hide wires. Dimmer switches allow you to control the mood lighting.
Conclusion
Updating outdated metal kitchen cabinets doesn’t require a full renovation. With some strategic tweaks like new hardware, fresh paint, extra trim details and new countertops, you can give metal cabinets a modern facelift. The key is focusing on high-impact changes that provide the most transformation for your budget. With the right improvements, your dated metal cabinets can look brand new again.