Refurbishing metal kitchen cabinets can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen. While new cabinetry is quite expensive, refinishing existing cabinets is an affordable way to update the style and color without breaking the bank. Here is everything you need to know about refinishing metal cabinets and how much it typically costs.
Introduction
Metal kitchen cabinets were extremely popular in the 1950s-1970s, and you can still find them in many older homes today. While durable, metal cabinets can start to show their age over the years as the finish wears off and they lose their luster. Refinishing metal cabinets breathes new life into old cabinetry for a fraction of the cost of full replacement.
The process involves thoroughly cleaning the cabinets, removing the existing finish, preparing the metal surface, applying primer, and spraying on the new paint color. Refinishing can upgrade dated or worn cabinets to give your kitchen a fresh, modern look. The cost depends on the size of the job, location, who does the work, and the materials used.
Cost Factors
Several key factors impact the overall cost of refinishing metal kitchen cabinets:
Size of the Job
The total size of the refinishing project significantly affects the cost. The more cabinets needing refinishing, the higher the price will be. Closet-sized galley kitchens will be cheaper than large open concept kitchens with extensive cabinetry. Get a precise measurement of your cabinetry square footage to estimate costs.
DIY vs Professional
Refinishing cabinets yourself costs a fraction of hiring a professional, but involves a lot more work. Professionals have the skills, tools and experience to complete the job more efficiently. Expect to pay $300-800 for DIY refinishing or $1500-5000 for professional refinishing.
Location
Like all home improvement projects, rates can vary considerably by region. Labor and material prices tend to be higher in urban areas and major metropolitan markets.
Materials Used
The products selected impact the total price as well. Quality primers and paints yield better results but cost more than cheaper options. Most professionals use high-end industrial products.
Preparation Work Required
If the cabinets require extensive repairs, modifications, or prep work prior to painting, it adds to the project timeline and overall price. The more work needed, the higher the cost.
With these factors in mind, let’s break down typical price ranges in more detail.
DIY Refinishing Cost
With some spare time and DIY competence, refinishing metal cabinets can be a do-it-yourself project to save money. The major costs involve equipment, supplies, and new cabinet hardware.
Supplies
- Paint stripper: $10-$30
- Sandpaper: $10-$20
- Primer: $20-$50
- Paint: $30-$60
- Paint sprayer: $80-$200 (or rent for $40-$100 per day)
- Paint brushes: $10-$20
- Misc supplies: $20-$50 (drop cloths, paint thinner, trays, rollers, etc.)
To refinish an average 10-foot by 10-foot kitchen, expect to spend $100-$300 on supplies. Smaller projects may cost less, while larger kitchens require more materials.
Equipment Rental
The main equipment needed is a paint sprayer which applies the primer and paint smoothly and evenly on metal. Renting a sprayer typically costs $40-$100 daily.
Replacement Hardware
To finish off the “new” look, replace old hardware like drawer pulls and hinges with updated hardware. Expect to spend $150-$300 for a full kitchen.
Total DIY Cost
Given these supply, rental, and hardware costs, a DIY metal cabinet refinishing project will total:
- Small kitchen (6 cabinets): $300-$500
- Medium kitchen (12 cabinets): $400-$700
- Large kitchen (18+ cabinets): $500-$800
With some sweat equity and skill, this DIY kitchen upgrade is possible for under $800.
Professional Refinishing Cost
Hiring a professional spray painting contractor to refinish your metal cabinets costs considerably more but saves you the hassle and labor.
Professional Rates
Painters charge either an hourly rate or square footage rate to refinish cabinets.
- Hourly rate: $50-$100 per hour
- Square footage rate: $4-$8 per square foot
An average price is around $6 per square foot. The total rate depends on your geographic area and the company’s rates. Experienced professionals with stellar reviews can charge premium prices.
For example, for a medium 10×10 kitchen with 15 square feet of cabinets, the paint job would cost approximately:
- 15 sq ft cabinets x $6 per sq ft = $90 for labor
This does not include the prep work and materials needed. For smaller or larger kitchens, multiply the rate by your total cabinet square footage.
Material Costs
A professional company will supply all the high-quality primers, paints, thinners, sandpaper, and equipment needed to properly refinish metal cabinets. This typically adds $200-$400 to the project cost.
Total Professional Cost
Given the labor rates and material costs, hiring a pro typically costs:
- Small kitchen: $1000-$2000
- Medium kitchen: $1500-$3000
- Large kitchen: $2000-$5000
Professional refinishing provides superior results since the painters are skilled experts with the right tools and products. However, it comes at a higher price.
Process for Refinishing Metal Cabinets
Whether DIY or hired out, refinishing metal kitchen cabinets follows the same general process:
Cleaning
All surfaces must be thoroughly cleaned prior to painting. Grease, grime, and oils are removed using degreasers and scrubbing.
Stripping Existing Finish
The original finish needs to be completely stripped to ensure proper paint adhesion. Chemical paint strippers help remove the old finish.
Sanding & Repairs
Once stripped, the cabinets are sanded smooth for painting. Dings and dents can be filled and leveled out with wood filler at this stage.
Priming
A high-quality primer specially formulated for metal is applied first to seal the surface. Priming prevents rust and improves paint adhesion.
Painting
The topcoat of new cabinet paint color transforms the look. A professional sprayer ensures an even coat. 2-3 coats are ideal for full coverage and durability.
New Hardware
Updating the hardware is the finishing touch. New knobs, pulls, and hinges establish the updated style.
With meticulous prep and care, refinished metal cabinets look fantastic and add modern style to your kitchen.
Common Questions About Refinishing Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Still have some questions about refinishing metal cabinets? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How long does it take to refinish metal cabinets?
The process takes 2-5 days from start to finish. Allow 1 day for cleaning and stripping, 1 day for sanding and repairs, 1 day for priming, and 1-2 days for painting. Drying time between steps extends the timeline.
Does it look obvious the cabinets were refinished?
Not if done properly! Quality techniques and paints result in a seamless finished product. The cabinets appear completely refreshed and renewed.
Is the new paint prone to chipping or damage?
High-quality cabinet paints are formulated for durability in kitchens. The finish is resistant to moisture, grease, chipping and yellowing. Proper prep ensures long-lasting results.
Can you change the color drastically?
Yes, you can refinish from a dark color to light, or vice versa. Primer provides a uniform base for the new color. However, dramatic color changes may require multiple paint coats.
Should I replace rather than refinish cabinets?
If the cabinets are severely damaged or unsalvageable, replacement may be the better option. Refinishing is ideal for cabinets in decent structural condition needing only cosmetic improvements.
What about refacing vs refinishing?
Cabinet refacing entails replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts. Refinishing involves painting the existing cabinet boxes. Refacing has a quicker install but doesn’t update the entire cabinet.
Conclusion
Refinishing metal kitchen cabinets allows you to inexpensively transform the entire look of your kitchen. Rather than investing $10,000 or more in new cabinets, existing ones can be upgraded for a fraction of the price. Careful preparation and application of new finishes results in cabinets that look fresh, updated, and custom for your kitchen. Consider cabinet refinishing as a budget-friendly kitchen makeover option.