Introduction
Painting metal cabinets can transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom. With a fresh coat of paint, worn and dated metal cabinets can be given an updated, stylish look. However, properly prepping metal cabinets prior to painting is crucial for achieving an attractive, durable finish. Rushing through or skipping proper prep work will likely result in peeling, chipping, or cracking paint down the road.
Prepping metal cabinets for new paint involves thoroughly cleaning the surfaces, sanding to roughness, applying primer, caulking gaps, and addressing problem areas like rust. While it may take a bit more effort upfront, correctly prepping metal cabinets will help the new paint adhere properly so it lasts for years to come.
This comprehensive guide will walk through all the steps for how to properly prep metal cabinets for a fresh coat of paint. With these tips, you can prep your metal cabinets like a professional painter and achieve stunning results. Let’s get started!
Clean Surfaces Thoroughly
The first step when prepping metal cabinets for paint is to thoroughly clean all surfaces. Any dirt, grease, wax, or residue left on the cabinets can prevent paint from properly adhering. Taking time to deep clean the cabinets will help ensure tight paint bonding.
Here are the best tips for cleaning metal cabinets prior to painting:
Remove Doors and Drawers
Detaching the cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware will allow you to more easily access the cabinet box and clean all surfaces. Place the removed hardware like hinges and pulls in a bag for safekeeping so items do not get misplaced.
Clean With TSP Substitute
Use a TSP (trisodium phosphate) substitute cleaning product and warm water to scrub down all cabinet surfaces. TSP removes grease, wax, dirt, and other residue from wood and metal. Wear protective rubber gloves when cleaning with TSP substitute. Rinse thoroughly with clean water after scrubbing.
Degrease With Alcohol, Acetone, or Ammonia
For areas with heavy grease or oil, use rubbing alcohol, acetone, or an ammonia-based cleaner to cut through the grime. Lightly scrub with a scouring pad. Rinse surfaces thoroughly after degreasing. Allow cabinets to fully dry.
Remove Rust With Vinegar
For any rust spots, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Scrub rusted areas with a stiff nylon brush dipped in the vinegar solution. The acid in vinegar will help dissolve rust. Rinse thoroughly and let dry.
Thoroughly cleaning all cabinet surfaces removes potential barriers so paint can adhere tightly. Avoid cleaning with wax-based products like Pledge prior to painting. Now the cabinets are ready for light sanding.
Sand Surfaces Lightly
Once metal cabinets are cleaned, the next prepping step is to sand surfaces lightly. This will help “rough up” the smooth cabinet surface so paint can grip it better. Use fine grit sandpaper (150-220 grit) so that just a light scuffing is achieved.
Here are tips for properly sanding metal cabinets before painting:
Hand Sand Flat Areas
For broad flat surfaces like cabinet door panels and sides, sand by hand using a sanding block. This allows you to apply consistent light pressure. Always sand in the direction of the metal grain.
Use Detail Sander for Edges and Corners
For grooves, edges, and corners, use a handheld detail or orbital sander. Detail sanders allow you to sand hard-to-reach areas thoroughly. Carefully sand raised edges but avoid rounding over corners.
Sand Inside of Cabinets
Use a small sanding block to scuff inside cabinet boxes and shelving. This promotes paint adhesion even inside cabinets. Sand dingy areas a bit more vigorously.
Clean Surfaces After Sanding
After sanding, wipe all surfaces with a dry tack cloth to remove dust. Or you can give cabinets a quick once-over with a vacuum hose. Avoid compressed air, which can force dust into grooves.
Avoid over-sanding, which can create dents or scratches in the original cabinet surface. The goal is just to scuff up the metal’s smoothness, not remove the original finish. Proper sanding provides the ideal “tooth” for primer and paint.
Apply Quality Metal Primer
One of the most important steps in prepping metal cabinets for paint is applying a quality metal primer. Priming creates an adhesion layer between the slick metal surface and new paint. Using the right primer for metal helps prevent future chipping or peeling.
Here are tips for selecting and applying metal primer:
Choose Oil-Based Primer for Best Adhesion
Alkyd oil-based primer is ideal for achieving strong adhesion and corrosion resistance on metal surfaces. Alternatively, a high-bonding acrylic primer formulated just for metals can be used. Stay away from ordinary latex wall primers which won’t bond well.
Apply With Foam Roller and Angled Brush
Use a high density foam roller to apply a smooth, even coat of primer to large flat areas. For corners and edges, use an angled sash brush. Work methodically to prevent drips and runs. Read primer label for recommended dry time.
Spot Prime Any Remaining Rust
If there are any leftover rust spots after cleaning, spot prime just these areas with a dedicated rust inhibiting primer before applying your regular metal primer coat. Rust-specific primers chemically convert rust into an inert substance.
Prime Inside of Cabinets Too
Be sure to prime the interior of cabinet boxes and shelving using an angled sash brush and small foam roller. Durability inside is just as important.
As the saying goes, proper prep means “putty and paint make wood what it ain’t.” Well, the same holds true for metal. Applying quality primer is crucial for getting paint to properly adhere to slick metal. Now let’s talk about filling any gaps.
Fill Gaps and Dents with Caulk
Since metal cabinet doors and boxes are comprised of pieces joined together, there are often small gaps where sections meet. These gaps, if left unaddressed, will be accentuated after new paint is applied. Filling gaps with caulk evens out surfaces for a seamless painted finish.
Here are some tips for caulking metal cabinets:
Clean Gaps Before Caulking
Use a utility knife or putty knife to scrape any old dried caulk or paint crusties out of gaps and cracks before applying new caulk. Remove any dust or debris.
Apply Paintable Caulk With Gun or Putty Knife
Choose a flexible, paintable silicone or latex caulk rated for metal. Apply using a caulk gun or putty knife, forcing caulk deep inside gaps. Smooth excess with a damp finger or wet spatula.
Allow Proper Dry Time Before Painting
It’s important to let caulk fully cure before painting or it may not adhere properly. Most caulks take 24-48 hours to fully cure. Do not apply paint until recommended dry time has passed.
Fill Any Holes or Dents
In addition to gaps, inspect for small holes from old hardware or dents and fill with lightweight spackle or auto body filler as needed. Smooth and level filled areas.
Taking time to properly caulk gaps and dents ensures the painted surface will be smooth and continuous, not interrupted by uneven gaps and divots. Now let’s address any additional problem areas.
Address Problem Areas
Before painting, inspect metal cabinets closely for any problem spots that need addressed beyond basic cleaning, sanding, priming, and caulking:
Treat Severe Rust
If any areas exhibit severe rust due to prolonged moisture exposure, treat with a phosphoric acid-based rust converter. These create a non-rusting surface for painting.
Sand Smoothing Finishes
If cabinets have a smooth glossy finish that sanding doesn’t sufficiently scuff, use liquid deglosser or sand with extra coarse sandpaper to enable primer adhesion.
Remove Loose Paint
Scrape off any sections of loose, flaking paint using a paint scraper. Feather edges smooth with sandpaper. Spot prime bare metal.
Replace Rusty Hardware
Severely rusted hinges, pulls, or handles should be replaced. Leaving rusty hardware will detract from your fresh painted cabinets. Scrub salvageable hardware.
Doing due diligence to address any outstanding issues ensures your painted cabinets will look flawless. Now let’s go over best practices for the actual cabinet painting.
Paint Cabinets Using Proper Technique
Once all the prep work is complete – surfaces cleaned, sanded, primed, caulked, and problem areas addressed – you’re finally ready to apply fresh paint. Use these pointers to paint metal cabinets the right way:
Allow Primer to Fully Cure First
Before painting, ensure primer has cured per manufacturer directions, typically 24 hours. Rushing into painting uncured primer can ruin adhesion. Patience pays off.
Lightly Sand Primer Before Painting
For maximum adhesion, it’s recommended to lightly sand primed surfaces with fine sandpaper to create a slight scuff. This helps the paint grip. Wipe away dust before painting.
Use Durable Enamel Paint
Opt for a high-quality enamel cabinet paint with urethane. Enamel paints provide a rock-hard, non-yellowing finish that stands up to cleaning and wear. Apply at least two coats for full coverage and durability.
Work In a Dust-Free Area
Paint cabinets in a controlled environment like a garage with minimal airborne dust. Dust particles can adhere to tacky painted surfaces causing an imperfect finish. Keep kids and pets away!
Be Patient Between Coats
Allow proper dry time between paint coats as specified on the label, usually 24 hours. Rushing the process can ruin the paint job. Slow and steady is key for properly prepped and painted cabinets.
With the right prep and paint application, it is possible to achieve sleek, professional-looking painted metal cabinets. Just be sure to follow all the steps carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prepping Metal Cabinets for Paint
Here are answers to some common questions people have about getting metal cabinets properly prepped for painting:
Q: Should I take doors off cabinets or leave them on when prepping and painting?
It is recommended to detach cabinet doors and drawers during the prep and painting process. This allows you to access the cabinet frame and interior more easily for cleaning, sanding, priming, caulking, and painting. Remove hinges and pulls carefully and store hardware safely in a bag. Taking doors off also makes doors easier to work with.
Q: Can I use regular latex wall primer on metal cabinets?
No, regular latex wall primer does not bond well to slick metal surfaces. It is best to use an alkyd oil-based primer or a primer specifically formulated just for metals. These primers contain additives that grab onto and etch into metal. Always choose a quality metal primer.
Q: How coarse of sandpaper grit should I use on metal cabinets?
Do not use anything too coarse like 80 grit that can scratch metal. For smooth metal cabinets, 150-220 grit sandpaper is ideal for lightly scuffing the surface and providing enough tooth for primer and paint adhesion. Use a sanding block on flat areas and a detail sander for corners.
Q: How long does primer and paint need to dry before proceeding to the next step?
It is crucial to allow primers, caulks, and paints to fully cure as recommended by each manufacturer before moving onto the next step. Typically 24-48 hours dry time is needed before sanding or recoating. Rushing the process can ruin the paint job. Be patient!
Q: Can I use a wire brush to strip paint from metal cabinets?
No, avoid wire brushes on metal cabinets as they will scratch and groove the original surface. Use a chemical paint remover or heat gun instead to safely strip paint down to bare metal. Then sand any remaining residue off smooth.
Q: What kind of paint is best for metal cabinets – latex or enamel?
Enamel paints provide the most durable, long-lasting finish on metal cabinets. Opt for an enamel cabinet paint with urethane. Latex wall paints are too soft for the wear and tear cabinets receive. Apply enamel in smooth, even coats.
Q: Should I clean cabinets with TSP before or after sanding?
Always clean metal cabinet surfaces thoroughly before sanding to remove any grease and residue. If you sand first, grit can become trapped in grease. Clean with TSP substitute or degreaser, then rinse. Once dried, proceed with light sanding.
Conclusion
The key to achieving beautifully painted metal cabinets is proper prep before applying primer and paint. By thoroughly cleaning, sanding, priming, caulking, and addressing any problem areas, you prepare the cabinets for paint to bond tightly. Using the right metal primer and prep techniques helps prevent future chipping or peeling.
Don’t rush the process – allow proper dry times between steps. With patience and the right products and methods, you can prep metal cabinets like a pro for stunning painted results that will last for many years. Just take it step-by-step.
The fresh new look painted metal cabinets can give your kitchen or bathroom makes the prep work well worth it. So roll up your sleeves, get out the cleaning solution, sandpaper, primer, caulk, and enamel paint, and dive into prepping those cabinets. In no time you’ll have a brand new looking space!