Giving your metal kitchen cabinets a fresh new look can completely transform the feel of your kitchen. With a few simple tricks, you can make dull, outdated cabinets look bright and modern again. Here are some great tips for sprucing up metal kitchen cabinets.
Clean Cabinets Thoroughly
The first step is to thoroughly clean the cabinets. Remove all food particles, grease, and grime that may have built up. Use a degreasing cleaner and scrub with a soft cloth or sponge. For stubborn grease stains, try using baking soda as an abrasive scrub. Once cleaned, make sure to dry the cabinets well with a soft towel.
Sand Down Surface Imperfections
Examine the cabinets closely and sand down any scratches, chips, or areas of worn paint using 220 grit sandpaper. This will smooth the surface and prep it for new paint. Be sure to vacuum up all sanding dust before moving on.
Prime Cabinets
Before painting, it’s important to apply a high-quality primer/sealer. Metal kitchen cabinets have a slick surface, so primer helps the new paint adhere properly. Look for a primer specifically made for metal that provides maximum adhesion. Apply a thin even coat and allow to dry fully.
Add Color With Paint
Choose a rich, glossy paint in a color that contrasts well with your countertops and backsplash. Blacks, blues, greens, and bold reds can all look striking against metal. Apply 2-3 thin, even coats of paint, allowing drying time in between coats. Consider using appliance epoxy if you want an ultra-durable finish.
Replace Hardware
Replacing old knobs and pulls with new hardware is a quick way to give cabinets an updated look. Oil-rubbed bronze, stainless steel, or matte black hardware all look modern against painted metal cabinets. Ensure new hardware fits cabinet holes properly before removing old.
Install New Lighting Under Cabinets
Task lighting under cabinets brightens up the whole kitchen. LED strip lighting is easy to install with adhesive backing. Choose warm white light around 2700-3000 kelvin to provide attractive illumination on countertops and work areas.
Add Glass Doors
Installing glass cabinet insert doors is a clever way to transform the look of existing cabinets. The glass lets you see inside while protecting contents from dust. Frosted, seeded, or smoked glass options look best on painted cabinets.
Organize Interiors
Use lazy susans, pull-out shelves, and door racks to organize cabinet interiors. This provides easy access to everything stored in cabinets. Try matching bins and canisters to cabinet colors for a coordinated look.
Consider Backsplash
Adding a backsplash is an impactful way to complement new metal cabinets. Try boldly patterned, metallic, or glass tile. Install the backsplash so it extends all the way up to bottom of wall cabinets for a seamless look.
With a little creativity and effort, it’s easy to make metal kitchen cabinets look brand new. Any of these techniques will help spruce up cabinets and give your kitchen an updated, stylish feel. Be sure to take time to properly prep and paint the cabinets to help the new finish last. And look for small details like new hardware, lighting, and backsplash tile to really make the new cabinets pop. Your freshly spruced up metal cabinets will provide a beautiful, functional focal point in your renovated kitchen.
FAQs About Sprucing Up Metal Kitchen Cabinets
How do you prepare metal cabinets for painting?
Thoroughly clean cabinets to remove grease and grime. Lightly sand surface to improve paint adhesion. Apply a primer made specifically for metal before painting. This helps the paint stick to the slick metal surface.
What type of paint works best on metal cabinets?
Look for a high-quality enamel, epoxy, or oil-based paint in a semi-gloss or gloss sheen. Latex paint may not adhere as well on metal over time. Match sheen level to current cabinets for a cohesive look.
Should I take doors and drawers off before painting cabinets?
Yes, removing cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware allows for easier access while prepping and painting. Lay doors on sawhorses or across chairs for painting. Number pieces to keep organized.
How do I get a smooth painted finish on metal cabinets?
Proper prep is key – sand and prime before painting. Apply thin coats of paint, allowing proper drying time between coats. Lightly sand between coats for an ultra-smooth finish. Use a small foam roller and brush for best results.
What color hardware looks best with painted metal cabinets?
Matte black, oil-rubbed bronze, brushed nickel, and stainless steel hardware all pair well with painted metal cabinets. Match hardware finish to other fixtures in the kitchen for a coordinated look.
Should I paint the cabinet interiors when refreshing metal cabinets?
Yes, painting cabinet interiors will give your kitchen a truly finished, polished look. Use the same paint color or try something contrasting. Be sure to remove shelves first for easier access.
What kind of lighting works well under metal kitchen cabinets?
LED strip lighting provides great task lighting under cabinets. Look for kits with adhesive backing for easy install. Choose warm white light around 2700K. Link multiple strips together for wider cabinets.
What are some economical backsplash options for metal cabinets?
Self-adhesive tile, beadboard, or faux tin backsplash are affordable options. Roll-out backsplash with metal or decorative wallpaper is another budget-friendly idea that looks great with metal cabinets.
Can I spray paint my metal kitchen cabinets?
Yes, spray paint formulated specifically for metal adheres well and provides great coverage. Thorough prep and primer are still needed first. Apply light coats, allowing proper dry time between to avoid drips.
Conclusion
Revitalizing outdated metal kitchen cabinets is a project any DIYer can handle with proper prep and painting techniques. Focus on details like new hardware, lighting, and backsplash to take the makeover to the next level. Spruced up metal cabinets will give your kitchen a fresh, contemporary look and feel for a fraction of the cost of new cabinetry. Roll up your sleeves and get ready to transform those tired old cabinets into a stunning new focal point in your kitchen.