Painting metal cabinets can update the look of your kitchen or bathroom. With proper preparation and technique, you can achieve a smooth, durable finish. Here is a step-by-step guide for how to pint metal cabinets.
Choose the Right Paint
The type of paint you use will greatly affect the final result. For painting metal cabinets, you’ll want to use:
- A primer specifically made for metal. This helps the topcoat adhere properly.
- A topcoat paint designed for metal, such as an oil-based or acrylic enamel paint. These are more durable than regular wall paints.
- Spray paint also works well for painting metal cabinets. Look for one with acrylic enamel that resists chipping and fading.
Prepare the Cabinets
Proper preparation is key to achieving an attractive, long-lasting finish on metal cabinets:
- Clean the cabinets thoroughly with a degreaser to remove any oil, grease or soap residue.
- Lightly sand the cabinets with fine grit sandpaper. This helps the paint adhere.
- Fill any holes/imperfections with spackle and sand smooth.
- Remove doors and hardware like hinges and handles. Set aside to paint separately.
- Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want painted.
Prime the Cabinets
Applying primer is one of the most important steps for how to pint metal cabinets:
- Choose a metal primer and apply a coat evenly over all cabinet surfaces using a high quality brush or sprayer.
- Allow the primer to dry fully as directed by manufacturer’s instructions.
- Once dry, lightly sand the primed cabinets using fine sandpaper. This will create a smooth surface for painting.
- Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth.
Apply Topcoat Paint
Once primed, you’re ready for the finish paint coat:
- Apply two coats of your chosen metal paint, allowing proper drying time between coats.
- Use a high quality brush or paint sprayer to apply the topcoat evenly. Work in thin coats, avoiding drips.
- For spray painting, use light, even motions and keep the can 6-12 inches from the surface.
- Allow each coat to dry fully before adding another. Lightly sand between coats for a smooth finish.
- Seal all edges and joints thoroughly to prevent chipping over time.
Replace Hardware and Doors
The final steps include:
- Once fully dry, replace cabinet hardware like hinges and handles.
- Screw cabinet doors back into place.
- Reinstall any fixtures or accessories that you removed before painting.
And that’s it – you now have beautifully updated metal cabinets! Adhering to these steps for how to pint metal cabinets will help ensure you get a polished, professional looking finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Painting Metal Cabinets
How long does it take for each coat of paint to dry?
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, as drying times vary. Typically, each coat of primer and paint will take 2-4 hours to dry before recoating.
What kind of primer should I use on metal cabinets?
- Use a primer specifically formulated for metal surfaces. Rust-inhibiting metal primers provide maximum durability and adhesion.
Can I use spray paint on metal cabinets?
- Yes, spray paint works very well for painting metal as long as you use one designed specifically for metal surfaces. Enamel spray paints yield a smooth, protective finish.
Should I sand metal cabinets before painting them?
- Lightly sanding provides “tooth” for the paint to adhere properly. Always sand between coats too for a perfectly smooth finish.
How do I get paint splatters off my metal cabinets?
- Use a plastic paint scraper to gently lift off wet paint drips. For dried drips, carefully scrape off what you can, then use paint thinner applied with a rag to remove any residue.
How often should I repaint metal cabinets?
- With proper prep and application, the paint should last 3-5 years before needing touch ups. Fully repainting every 5-7 years will keep metal cabinets looking fresh.
Conclusion
Painting metal kitchen or bathroom cabinets provides an affordable way to give your space a brand new look. Follow these steps for how to pint metal cabinets, use the right primer and paints, and take time to properly prepare the surface. The end result will be a durable, professional finish that makes your cabinets look like new again. With a little bit of time and effort, you can completely transform the look of your kitchen or bath.