Repainting vintage metal kitchen cabinets can give your kitchen a fresh, updated look while preserving the charm and character of the original cabinets. With some preparation and effort, you can achieve a beautiful, durable finish that will stand the test of time. Here is a comprehensive guide to repainting vintage metal kitchen cabinets.
Assess the Existing Finish and Condition
Before starting, thoroughly examine the current finish on the cabinets and note any problem areas like rust, flaking paint, dents, or scratches. This will help you determine the best approach for preparing the surface.
Pay attention to the type of existing paint as well – is it enamel, lacquer, varnish or something else? This will impact the products and techniques you need for repainting.
Also check the metal itself. Vintage cabinets were often made from tin, steel or aluminum. Each metal has slightly different needs when repainting.
Clean and Degrease the Cabinets
Thoroughly clean and degrease the cabinets prior to repainting. Use a degreasing agent like TSP substitute to cut through built-up grease and grime.
For stubborn areas, scrub with an abrasive pad. Rinse well and let the cabinets fully dry before moving onto sanding. Proper cleaning is key for paint adhesion.
Sand the Cabinets
Sanding serves two important purposes – it scuffs up the surface for better paint adhesion and allows you to remove any loose flakes of old paint.
What grit sandpaper you need depends on the existing finish. For very smooth surfaces like enamel, start with 220 grit and work up to 320 or 400 grit. Rougher paint may only need 120-150 grit.
Always finish sanding in the direction of the metal grain with the finest grit recommended for your finish. Completely remove all dust after sanding.
Prime the Surface
Priming is an essential step when repainting metal. It provides a uniform surface for the new paint to adhere to.
For repainting vintage kitchen cabinets, use a high-quality metal primer specifically designed for the cabinet material – steel, aluminum etc. Apply 2-3 thin, even coats allowing proper drying time between coats.
Apply New Paint
For the new cabinet color, choose a durable enamel or oil-based alkyd paint. Both provide a smooth, hardwearing finish perfect for kitchen cabinets. Purchase high quality paint and apply multiple thin coats for best results.
Let each coat fully dry before adding another. Lightly sand between coats for maximum adhesion. Allow the final coat to cure for a full week before use.
Useful Tips for Repainting Metal Cabinets
- Use painter’s tape around hinges, handles and edges for crisp paint lines. Remove tape immediately after painting.
- When spraying paint, keep the can 10-12 inches from the surface and apply thin, even coats.
- For brushed-on paint, use high quality bristle or foam brushes and maintain a wet edge as you work.
- Paint the cabinet interiors and doors separately for easier handling.
- If the original hardware is being reused, remove it and paint separately after masking any areas you don’t want painted.
- Work in a dust-free area to minimize contamination in the drying paint.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get rid of rust on old metal cabinets before repainting?
For minor surface rust, sanding vigorously may remove it. For heavier rust, use a rust converter chemical or naval jelly to convert the rust into an inert layer that can be painted over.
What’s the best way to remove old flaking paint from metal cabinets?
Carefully scrape off any loose paint with a paint scraper, putty knife or wire brush. Follow up with thorough sanding to remove any remaining flaky areas and feather the edges smooth.
Should I repaint cabinets in place or remove them from the kitchen first?
It’s generally easier to fully paint cabinets once they are removed. But for smaller touch-ups, repainting in place is fine. Just protect surrounding surfaces from drips.
How long does it take to fully repaint a set of vintage metal cabinets?
Plan on at least 2-3 days – 1 day for preparation and sanding, 1 day for painting, and 1 day for drying and reassembly. Additional coats or extensive repairs will add time.
Can I use a painting sprayer for kitchen cabinet repainting?
Yes, a high quality HVLP spray system can provide an exceptionally smooth factory-like finish on kitchen cabinets. Just take necessary precautions to avoid overspray.
Conclusion
Repainting vintage metal kitchen cabinets requires careful preparation, high quality paint and some patience. But the end results are well worth the effort. Not only do you get a fresh new look, but you preserve the style and charm of your retro metal cabinets. With the right approach and products, your updated vintage kitchen will look amazing for years to come. Be sure to thoroughly clean, lightly sand, prime and apply durable cabinet enamel. Pay close attention to prep work and application and your repainted metal cabinets will shine.