Kitchen cabinets with exposed corners can look unfinished and vulnerable to damage. Installing metal corners is an easy and affordable way to give your cabinets a finished look while protecting the corners from bumps, knocks, and wear and tear. But where exactly can you find high-quality metal corner protectors for your kitchen cabinets?
There are several options for purchasing metal cabinet corners for your kitchen makeover or renovation project. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the pros, cons, and key factors to consider when deciding where to buy metal corners for kitchen cabinets.
Types of Metal Corner Protectors for Kitchen Cabinets
Metal cabinet corners come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and finishes. Here are some of the most common types you’ll encounter when shopping around:
90 Degree Corner Protectors
These are L-shaped brackets that cover a simple 90 degree corner seam between two perpendicular cabinet sides. They provide protection on exposed external corners.
135 Degree Corner Protectors
Like 90 degree brackets, 135 degree corner protectors provide coverage for external corners. They are designed for cabinet configurations that join at 135 degree angles.
Decorative Metal Corner Protectors
For those looking to add visual interest, decorative corner protectors offer stylish accents with delicate designs, beveled edges, or ornate embellishments.
Bullnose Style
Bullnose corners create a smooth, rounded transition between two cabinet sides. This more contemporary look provides full corner coverage.
Cabinet Bumpers
Self-adhesive bumpers can be used on corners as added protection from bumps and scratches. They are often used in conjunction with metal corner brackets.
Inside Cabinet Corners
L-shaped brackets are also available to protect vulnerable inside cabinet corners and provide structural reinforcement.
Cabinet Corner Material Options
Metal corner protectors come in a range of materials, including:
- Stainless steel – Provides a modern, sleek look. Stainless steel is durable, easy to clean, and coordinated with most appliances.
- Brushed nickel – Offers an understated, brushed metallic finish. Works well for contemporary kitchens.
- Oil-rubbed bronze – Has an antique bronze finish that fits with traditional, rustic, or farmhouse decors.
- Chrome – A shiny silver tone well suited for retro, art deco, or modern kitchens with chrome hardware.
- Aluminum – Lightweight and affordable option, though not as durable as steel.
- Iron or steel – Provides industrial style while being budget-friendly.
- Plastic – Cheap option that may not endure bumps and knocks as well over time.
- Wood – Can be stained or painted to match cabinetry while offering protection.
- Copper – Imparts a warm, rich tone for an upscale look. maintenance required to prevent tarnishing.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Where to Buy
Purchasing metal corners for your kitchen is an important detail that can impact the overall look, quality, and functionality of your cabinetry. Here are key factors to keep in mind when deciding the best place to buy:
Price
Cabinet corner protectors can range greatly in price from a couple dollars for low-end plastic pieces to over $100 for premium decorative metal designs. Set a budget and shop accordingly.
Quality
As with most products, higher price often means better quality when it comes to durability and longevity. Read reviews to help assess true quality before purchasing. Cheap corners may bend, warp, or peel over time.
Size Options
Not all corner protectors are one-size-fits-all. Browse options with variable lengths and order custom sizing if needed to ensure a perfect fit.
Style
Think about the look you want to achieve and choose corner style and material to match your kitchen’s decor – modern, traditional, retro, rustic, etc.
Ease of Installation
Self-adhesive corner protectors are the simplest to install directly onto cabinet surfaces. Other styles may require tools, hardware, and precise measurement for a snug fit.
Shipping Costs
If ordering online, be mindful of any hidden shipping fees that may drive up the total cost. Choose expedited shipping if needed to receive corners in time for your cabinet installation.
Return Policy
In case of receiving wrong or defective products, an accommodating return policy offers peace of mind. Make sure you can easily exchange or get a refund if needed.
Where to Buy Metal Cabinet Corners
Now that we’ve explored the key factors to keep in mind, here are some of the best places to purchase metal corner protectors for kitchen cabinets:
Home Improvement Stores
Stores like Home Depot and Lowes offer various corner protector options in different sizes and materials. The advantage is being able to see choices in person before purchasing. Selection is often limited to basic, affordable options.
Kitchen and Bath Showrooms
Upscale kitchen design showrooms will have a broader range of styles and higher quality corner protectors to match their cabinet and hardware collections. This is a good option if you used a designer to select new kitchen cabinets.
Cabinetry Retailers
Companies that specialize in selling kitchen, bathroom, or garage cabinets will likely have a portfolio of coordinating corner protectors to choose from. This helps ensure an integrated look.
Online Retailers
Websites like Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and Wayfair provide enormous selection of corner protectors at various price points, though you can’t evaluate quality in person. Sort by best reviews.
Hardware Stores
Stores specializing in home hardware like cabinet pulls, hinges, and handles also sell related installation supplies like corner protectors. Provide them your cabinet measurements to identify options.
Cabinet Manufacturers
If purchasing new cabinets, the cabinet maker may sell matching corner protectors to help you achieve a unified finished look. Lead times may be longer than other options.
DIY Using Lumber
For a custom fit, you can buy L-shaped wood pieces and cut miters to wrap cabinet corners yourself. Stain or paint to match for an integrated look.
What to Look for When Buying Metal Cabinet Corners
To ensure you select high-quality corner protectors ideal for your kitchen project, keep the following checklist in mind when evaluating options:
- Durable metal thickness that will resist dents and scratches
- Smoothedges that won’t snag or cut hands when cleaning cabinets
- Metal composition or finish that won’t corrode, rust, or oxidize
- Structurally reinforced design that prevents bending
- Soft buffers or padding on edges to prevent glassware and dish damage
- Precise degree angle (90 vs 135) for proper cabinet fit
- Length/height that fully covers vulnerable corner areas
- Easy installation without gaps, overhang, or misalignment
- Stylish finish that matches your décor – brushed, polished, painted, etc.
- Positive reviews confirming quality and durable construction
- Reasonable pricing in line with your budget
- Responsive customer service to assist with any product issues
Taking the time to thoroughly evaluate and compare the options using this checklist will help ensure your satisfaction purchasing metal corner protectors for your kitchen.
How to Install Metal Corner Protectors on Cabinets
Once you’ve purchased quality metal cabinet corners, proper installation is key to realize their full protective benefits. Here is a quick overview of how to correctly install the most common metal corner protector styles:
90 Degree Metal Corner Brackets
- Clean cabinet corner thoroughly to improve adhesion.
- Measure corner angles to verify needed style (90 vs 135 degrees).
- Cut corner protectors to height of cabinet sides.
- Remove adhesive backing film from bracket.
- Align bracket over corner, pressing firmly to adhere.
- Use finishing nails or provided screws for added security.
- Repeat installation on all exposed exterior corners.
Decorative Metal Corner Covers
- Confirm needed length/width based on cabinet dimensions.
- Carefully remove any existing corner trim molding if present.
- Thoroughly clean corner surface for maximum adhesion.
- Align protector over corner and slowly peel away adhesive backing.
- Use roller or firm pressure with hand to secure fully into place.
- Drill pilot holes and insert any provided screws for stability if needed.
- Repeat process on all exterior corners for a uniform look.
Bullnose Cabinet Corners
- Take precise width measurements of cabinet sides adjoining at corner.
- Order bullnose corners to your exact dimensions for a custom fit.
- Use provided template to mark cutting line on corner trim if present. Remove trim.
- Thoroughly clean surface for installation.
- Test fit bullnose corner and make any adjustments for seamless alignment.
- Peel away adhesive backing and carefully press into corner position.
- Use nails or screws through pre-drilled holes to reinforce if needed.
Maintaining Metal Cabinet Corners
To keep metal corner protectors looking like new, follow these simple maintenance tips:
- Use soft cloth and mild cleaner for routine surface cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals or scouring pads.
- Hand wash only. Do not use metal cabinet corners in the dishwasher.
- Immediately address any rust formation with metal-friendly rust remover and reseal with enamel paint if needed.
- Repair any loosening over time by removing corner, cleaning surface, and reapplying adhesive.
- For stubborn residue or grime, use diluted white vinegar applied with non-abrasive cloth or sponge.
- Protect and conceal small scratches or scuffs by covering with cabinet corner trim molding if desired.
Properly cared for, quality metal corner protectors can retain their good looks while keeping your cabinets damage-free for many years. Follow these maintenance tips and enjoy the benefits of durably finished cabinet corners.
Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Corner Protectors
Many homeowners have additional questions when deciding where to buy and how to install metal corner protectors on their kitchen cabinets. Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions:
Are metal cabinet corners strictly decorative or do they serve a functional purpose?
Metal corner protectors definitely go beyond just aesthetics. They serve the important purpose of protecting vulnerable corners from dings, cracks, and crushing damage. This helps maintain the structural integrity and extends the life of your cabinetry.
Should I install corner protectors on inside cabinet corners as well as external corners?
Focusing on exterior corners is recommended since this is where most bumps and wear occur. However, adding brackets to reinforce inside corners can further strengthen the overall cabinetry.
What tools do I need to properly install metal corner protectors?
Self-adhesive corner guards can usually be installed without any tools. Other types may require basic tools like a tape measure, pencil, hand saw, drill, nails and/or screws. Always follow the manufacturer’s specific installation instructions.
Can I cut metal corner protectors to size myself?
Self-adhesive plastic bumpers are about the only style you can easily trim yourself using sturdy scissors. Cutting and fitting protective metal brackets is tricky. Precise factory cutting is best to ensure proper angles and a secure fit.
Should I glue metal corners in addition to the provided adhesive?
The adhesive tape on most metal protectors provides sufficient bonding power. Additional glue risks overflow and drying on cabinet surfaces. Only use glue if specifically directed by the manufacturer.
How do I remove metal corners from cabinets if needed?
Carefully slice through the adhesive tape using a sharp blade. Slowly peel away the protector, applying heat from a hair dryer if needed to soften the adhesive. Use mineral spirits to remove any residue.
Will stainless steel corners scratch or damage my cabinets?
Quality brushed stainless steel protectors will not scratch surfaces. Use care when cleaning – wipe gently only with soft microfiber cloth to prevent abrasion or rubbing.
Installing durable, well-fitting metal corner protectors is a simple upgrade that can make a big visual impact while protecting your kitchen cabinetry. Evaluate your options using this guide and enjoy the benefits of armoring your cabinet corners against damage.
Conclusion
Adding metal corner protectors is an easy and relatively inexpensive way to provide an attractive finished look to exposed kitchen cabinet corners while shielding them from damage. With the range of style, material, and fitting options available, you can choose corner protectors that coordinate with or enhance your kitchen’s decor.
The optimal source for purchasing quality metal corners depends on factors like your budget, desired style, installation needs, and the existing look of your kitchen. Home improvement stores offer basic affordable options, while kitchen designers and specialty vendors provide more upscale decorative styles. For the greatest selection, online retailers like Amazon give you limitless buying choices.
Be sure to assess the quality, dimensions, and product reviews when selecting corner protectors to ensure durable, long-lasting protection and a perfect fit. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for proper installation. With just a bit of time invested in choosing and installing the right metal corner protectors, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your kitchen cabinets will stay looking beautiful despite life’s inevitable bumps and knocks.