Painting metal cabinets that have rusted can seem daunting, but with the right preparation and materials it can be a straightforward DIY project. Here are comprehensive tips on how to properly paint metal cabinets to cover rust and prevent future corrosion.
Assessing the Rust Damage
Before painting, take time to inspect the metal cabinets and determine the extent of the rust damage. Check both inside and out to see if the rust is surface level or if it has penetrated deeper into the metal.
Light surface rust can be easily removed and painted over. Examine if the rust has caused pitting or flaking of the original paint coating. Deep rust may require extra sanding, sealing, or even replacement of damaged parts.
Cleaning and Removing Rust
Thorough cleaning is crucial for long-lasting paint adhesion. Start by removing any loose paint chips or visible rust flakes with a wire brush or sandpaper.
For surface-level rust, use a commercial rust removal solution or a mixture of vinegar and water to scrub and dissolve the rust. Rinse thoroughly and let dry fully.
For deeper rust, use a rotary tool with a sanding attachment to grind away pitted areas down to bare metal. Wipe clean with mineral spirits and let dry before priming.
Sanding and Priming the Surface
Lightly sand all cabinet surfaces to rough up the existing paint for better adhesion. Dust off any particles and wipe clean with a tack cloth.
On bare metal, apply a rust-inhibiting primer like Rust-Oleum to prevent future corrosion. Use multiple thin coats to fully seal the metal, letting dry in between coats.
For previously painted metal, use an all-purpose primer to provide a uniform surface for painting. Allow primer to fully dry per manufacturer’s directions before painting.
Choosing the Right Paint
Look for an interior/exterior, oil or latex enamel paint in a semi-gloss or gloss sheen. Gloss paints are easiest to clean and most resistant to moisture and food stains.
For the cabinet interiors, consider an oil-based alkyd paint for the most durable finish that can stand up to regular opening and closing.
Opt for paint with rust-preventative properties for maximum protection. Make sure to get the same brand of primer and paint for best compatibility.
Applying Paint in Thin, Even Coats
Use a high-quality nylon or polyester brush for neat, smooth coverage around cabinet edges and hardware. For large flat areas, a small foam roller can help work the paint into the grooves.
Apply paint in several thin, uniform coats rather than one thick coat, allowing sufficient drying time between each application. Thick coats are more prone to running and sagging.
Maintain a wet edge by painting smoothly from end to end or corner to corner without stopping. For the final coat, inspect for any missed spots and gently smooth any obvious brush marks.
Curing and Drying Paint Fully
Oil-based paints may feel dry to the touch within 24 hours but can take 7-10 days to fully cure. Latex paints may take 2-3 days to cure. Avoid heavy use during this time.
Ensure the cabinets are completely dry before replacing shelves and hardware. Proper curing helps paint reach its maximum hardness and durability.
With careful preparation and application, fresh paint can restore your rusty metal cabinets. Properly sealant and regular cleaning will help prevent future rust and deterioration. Taking the time to properly prep and paint will keep your cabinets protected for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Painting Rusty Metal Cabinets
How do you prepare metal cabinets for painting?
- Clean surfaces thoroughly with a degreasing agent to remove any oil, grease or wax
- Lightly sand to rough up the surface for better paint adhesion
- Remove any loose paint chips or rust scale using sandpaper, steel wool or a wire brush
- Spot prime any bare metal areas with a metal primer before applying finish paint
What kind of paint should be used on metal cabinets?
- Use an oil-based enamel, epoxy, or alkyd paint formulated for metal surfaces
- Latex paints don’t adhere as well and are more prone to chipping or peeling
- Opt for gloss or semi-gloss sheen for easy cleaning and stain resistance
- Rust-inhibitive paints add extra protection for metal vulnerable to corrosion
How many coats of paint are needed on metal?
- Apply at least 2-3 thin, even coats for adequate coverage and protection
- Thin coats are better than one thick coat, which can drip or run more easily
- Allow proper dry time between coats as specified by the paint manufacturer
How do you paint over rust?
- Remove any loose rust flakes with sandpaper or a wire brush
- Clean with vinegar or commercial rust remover, then rinse thoroughly
- Prime bare metal spots with a rust-inhibiting primer before painting
- Apply finish paint coats, allowing proper dry time between coats
Can you paint over rust without sanding?
- Light sanding is best to rough up the surface for paint adhesion
- For light surface rust, try a rust converter product before priming
- Remove any flaking or peeling paint, even if you don’t sand underlying rust
How long does it take for paint to cure on metal?
- Oil-based paints can take up to 7-10 days to fully cure
- Latex or acrylic paints may only take 2-3 days to cure
- Avoid heavy use during curing time to prevent damage
Conclusion
Revitalizing old rusted metal cabinets might seem difficult, but in fact the process is quite straightforward. With some simple cleaning, sanding, priming, and painting, you can give your cabinets a fresh new look while preventing further rust damage. The key steps are removing all rust down to bare metal, sealing with rust-inhibiting primer, and using high-quality oil-based enamel paint. With proper preparation and product selection, your painted metal cabinets will keep their beautiful, glossy finish for years before needing a touch up. Taking the time to properly prepare the surface and apply quality paint will lead to a durable, long-lasting paint job.