Refacing old metal kitchen cabinets can completely transform the look of your kitchen without the high cost of a full remodel. With some new doors, drawer fronts, and hardware, you can give your outdated cabinets a fresh, modern facelift. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to reface metal kitchen cabinets.
Introduction
Kitchen cabinet refacing involves replacing the existing cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware without removing the cabinet boxes or frameworks. It allows you to change the aesthetic of your kitchen by installing new, stylish doors and hardware over the old cabinet boxes. Refacing is ideal for renovating kitchens on a budget, as it costs a fraction of a full kitchen remodel.
Refacing metal kitchen cabinets follows the same process as wood cabinets, but with some additional considerations due to the unique properties of metal. With proper preparation and technique, you can give old, worn metal cabinets new life with beautiful, durable new fronts.
Benefits of Refacing Metal Kitchen Cabinets
- Cost savings – Refacing averages 10-50% the cost of full cabinet replacement. You save on demolition, new cabinet boxes, countertops, backsplashes, and labor.
- Faster renovation – Refacing takes 1-3 days instead of weeks for new cabinets. Less downtime in your kitchen.
- Custom look – Update to any door style for a unique, custom look.
- Eco-friendly – Refacing reuses existing cabinet boxes, reducing landfill waste.
- Enhanced functionality – Add pull-out shelves, lazy susans, and other upgrades.
- Less messy – Refacing produces less dust and debris compared to a full remodel.
Prep Work for Refacing Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Proper prep work ensures your new cabinet fronts will install smoothly and properly. Here are the key steps:
- Remove doors, drawers, and hardware – Detach everything from the cabinet boxes using a screwdriver. Set hardware aside to reuse or replace.
- Clean boxes – Use a degreaser to remove grime and oils from cabinet boxes and frames.
- Sand surfaces – Lightly sand boxes to rough up the surface for better adhesion.
- Fill holes – Fill any holes or defects with wood filler and let dry completely. Sand smooth.
- Add support strips – Attach metal L-brackets or wood strips around the perimeter of the cabinet face frames. This provides support for the new doors and drawers to attach to.
- Prime boxes – Apply primer to the cabinets to create a uniform surface for the new fronts. Allow to dry fully.
Choosing New Doors, Drawers, and Hardware
The style of the new components you choose will define the look of your refaced metal kitchen cabinets. Consider the following:
- Door styles – Slab, shaker, raised panel, glass insert, and more. Match your kitchen’s decor.
- Materials – Wood, thermofoil, metal, and glass are common. Select durable, low-maintenance materials.
- Drawer fronts – Match the style and material to the new doors for a cohesive look.
- Hardware – Knobs, pulls, and handles create a big impact. Choose a finish that matches your faucets and appliances.
- Organization – Incorporate roll-outs, spice pull-outs, lazy susans, and other functional accessories.
Shop at home improvement stores, cabinet suppliers, or online retailers to view all the options before purchasing your new cabinet components. Be sure to measure carefully for accurate sizing.
Installing New Doors and Drawers on Metal Cabinets
Once you have your new fronts, it’s time to install them onto the existing metal boxes:
Doors
- Hold the door in place and mark the hinge locations on the cabinet frame with a pencil.
- Drill pilot holes in the marked locations.
- Attach hinges to the door first, then screw the other side into the cabinet frame. Adjust as needed.
- Use a level to ensure the door hangs straight. Adjust hinges until proper alignment is achieved.
Drawers
- Measure and mark drawer front height on cabinet face frame.
- Place drawer front in opening and drill pilot holes for attachment.
- Screw drawer front into face frame using cabinet screws.
- Test fit – drawer should open/close smoothly without rubbing. Make adjustments as needed.
Hardware
- Mark locations for knobs, pulls or handles on doors and drawers.
- Drill pilot holes.
- Attach hardware using screws provided.
Be sure to thoroughly clean and prime any raw wood edges before installation for a finished look.
Tips for Refacing Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Follow these tips for a successful metal cabinet refacing project:
- Use high-quality wood filler to patch any defects or seams between frames and new fronts. Sand smooth when dry.
- Prepare the existing cabinet surface properly with sanding/cleaning for best adhesion of new components.
- Choose durable door and drawer materials like thermofoil or metal that will hold up well in kitchen conditions.
- Use extra caution when drilling pilot holes in metal frames to avoid cracks or splintering.
- Look for refacing products with foam tape around the back – this compresses to create a tight seal around new fronts.
- Crown molding, trim, and other accessories can help conceal any gaps between old boxes and new fronts.
- Hire a professional if you don’t feel equipped to install new fronts yourself. Their expertise can ensure a seamless finished look.
Maintaining Refaced Metal Kitchen Cabinets
With proper care, your refaced metal cabinets should provide many years of service:
- Use microfiber cloths to gently clean surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Immediately dry any water that gets on cabinets to prevent water damage, especially on wood fronts.
- Use cutting boards to protect cabinet surfaces from knives and sharp objects.
- Tighten hardware as needed if pulls/handles become loose.
- Adjust doors/drawers if they become misaligned over time.
- Touch up any nicks or scratches with matching wood filler and paint.
- Consider re-sealing wood door fronts annually to protect from moisture and food spills.
Refacing Metal Kitchen Cabinets FAQs
How much does it cost to reface metal kitchen cabinets?
The average cost to reface metal kitchen cabinets is $2,500 to $4,500, with the price varying based on factors like the size of your kitchen, materials chosen, and if you do the labor yourself or hire a pro.
Is it cheaper to reface or replace metal cabinets?
Refacing almost always costs significantly less than full replacement of metal cabinets. Refacing allows you to redo the look by replacing just the visible sections (doors, drawer fronts, hardware) rather than the entire boxes and frames.
Can you paint over metal kitchen cabinets?
Painting metal cabinets is possible but tricky. The smooth surface of metal means paint may not adhere well, especially with heavy use in a kitchen. Refacing with new thermofoil or wood fronts often works better than attempting to paint metal cabinets.
Should you reface or replace old metal kitchen cabinets?
If the underlying cabinets and frames are structurally sound, refacing metal cabinets is recommended over replacement to save money. However, if cabinets are severely damaged or layout changes are desired, replacement may be the better option.
How long does it take to reface metal kitchen cabinets?
The process of prepping and installing new fronts and hardware for metal cabinet refacing typically takes 1-3 days. Refacing provides a quicker kitchen update than full cabinet replacement, which can take weeks or months.
Conclusion
Refacing metal kitchen cabinets is an affordable way to transform the look of your kitchen in a fraction of the time and cost of a full remodel. With some simple prep work, new cabinet fronts and hardware suited to your style, and proper installation, you can give worn metal cabinets new life. Use this guide to understand the full process and considerations for refacing metal cabinets. With strategic planning and skilled technique, you can complete this weekend project and enjoy a stunning kitchen update.