Can Metal Cabinet Hinges Be Painted?

Painting metal cabinet hinges is certainly possible, but requires some preparation and technique to get the best and most durable results. With the right approach, a fresh coat of paint can refresh the look of your cabinet hardware and blend with your cabinet colors. Let’s explore the ins and outs of painting metal cabinet hinges so you can take on this project with confidence.

Why Paint Metal Cabinet Hinges?

There are a few key reasons you may want to paint your metal cabinet hinges:

Change the Look

• Paint allows you to change the color of your hardware to better match your cabinets after a remodel or to get a more updated look. For example, you could paint brass or bronze hinges white or black for a more modern aesthetic.

Refresh Old Hardware

• Over time, metal hardware can look dingy or develop a patina. A coat of paint is an easy way to make it look fresh and new again. This can give old cabinets a new lease on life.

Cover Damage

• If hinges are scratched or tarnished, paint provides an affordable way to disguise imperfections. Filling in scratches with paint is much easier than replacing hinges.

Complement New Cabinets

• When installing new cabinets, the existing hinges may look out of place with their finish. Painting them to match allows new and old cabinets to coordinate.

So whether you want an updated color, are restoring cabinets on a budget, or want to unify old and new, paint is a simple DIY solution for transforming the look of metal hardware.

Preparing Metal Cabinet Hinges for Painting

Proper prep is crucial for getting paint to adhere correctly to metal. Here are the key steps:

Clean the Surface

• Remove all dirt, grease, oil, and grime from hinges before priming or painting. Start by rubbing down with mineral spirits applied to a cloth. For stuck-on gunk, use a degreasing cleanser. Rinse thoroughly and let dry fully.

Sand Off Shine

• For paint to bond properly, the surface needs some texture. Lightly sand metal hinges using fine 200-400 grit sandpaper to scuff up and dull the surface. This helps the paint grab on.

Remove Rust

• If hinges have any rust spots, remove them by sanding or scraping. Otherwise they may cause the paint to blister. Vinegar or commercial rust removers can help tackle tough rust.

Prime the Metal

• After cleaning and sanding, apply a metal primer like Rust-Oleum Universal Primer before painting. The primer coat helps the topcoat of paint stick tightly.

With prep work complete, the hinges are ready for your selected paint. Pro tip: Look for paint labeled specifically for metal for best durability.

Apply Paint in Thin Coats

When painting, use thin coats and avoid glopping it on too thick. Thin coats result in a smoother finish less likely to run or drip. Allow each coat to fully dry before adding another.

Spray Paint vs Brush On

You can use brush on paint, but spray paint is often easier for coating hardware evenly. Hold the can 6-8 inches from the hinge when spraying. Lightly coat all sides including edges and corners.

Clear Coat for Protection

Finish off metal hinges with a clear coat enamel spray paint. This seals and protects the colored paint underneath from scrapes and wear. Gloss clear coat has the most durable finish.

Tips for Successfully Painting Metal Cabinet Hinges

Follow these tips as you take on your hinge painting project:

• Remove hinges from cabinets to paint separately for best results. Reinstall after they are fully dry.
• Use painters tape to cover areas you don’t want painted like screw heads or threads.
• Opt for oil-based enamel spray paint rather than acrylic for the most durable finish.
• Let painted hinges cure for several days before reinstalling so paint can fully harden.
• When drying, position hinges so no surface is touching anything else to prevent stuck paint.
• Start with a less visible hinge to test your paint choice and technique before tackling all of them.
• Apply paint in a well ventilated area and wear a respirator mask to avoid inhaling fumes.

With attention to proper prep and technique, freshly painted metal hinges can look pristine and complement your cabinet style. Take time to do it right so your efforts will last and you won’t have chipping or peeling issues down the road. Just remember to let the paint fully cure before subjecting hinges to use and wear.

Frequently Asked Questions About Painting Metal Cabinet Hinges

Many common questions come up when taking on a project like painting metal cabinet hinges. Here are answers to some of the top queries:

Can I paint cabinet hinges while still attached?

It is possible but removes for the best results. Taping around hinges helps catch drips. Fully open cabinets so no surface touches wet paint.

Do I need to use primer on metal before painting?

Yes, metal primer helps the paint bond tightly. Skipping this step risks peeling or chipping paint later on.

How long should I let painted hinges dry before reinstalling?

48-72 hours is ideal for paint to cure. Test a hinge by touching it lightly. If paint transfers to your finger, more drying time is needed.

What kind of paint works best on metal cabinet hinges?

Enamel spray paints like Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch provide the most durable finish and resist chipping. Opt for oil-based over acrylic.

How do I avoid paint getting into hinge mechanisms?

Use painter’s tape to cover all screw holes, threads, and crevices you don’t want painted. Position hinges to minimize paint seeping.

Can I use the same paint on cabinet hinges and door hinges?

Yes, enamel spray paint formulated for metal can be used on both cabinet and door hardware with similar preparation.

How do I avoid paint unevenness or drips on hinges?

Applying paint in thin, light coats minimizes drips and unevenness. Allow each coat to dry fully before adding another.

What grit sandpaper do I need for prepping metal hinges?

Lightly sand with fine 200-400 grit paper just to scuff and create texture. Avoid coarser paper that can damage the metal.

How can I restore a brass finish after painting hinges?

removes paint, then buff with brass polish and sealant. For antique brass, apply a patina chemical aging solution after polishing.

Will painted cabinet hinges eventually chip or peel?

Quality enamel paints will hold up for years with proper prep and curing time. Check for chips annually and touch up as needed.

Transforming Your Cabinets with Painted Hardware

With the right prep and technique, painting your cabinet hinges can give them a vibrant new look. Match your cabinet colors or give your kitchen or bath an updated style with on-trend black or matte white hinges. And enjoy a custom look for a fraction of the cost of buying all new hardware!

Painting metal hinges not only saves money, but also allows you to revive and customize what you already have. So be bold – don’t be afraid to paint outside the expected brass or bronze options. With the proper metal paint and some patience, you can make even old, damaged hinges look factory fresh again.

It may take some trial and error to refine your preparation and painting process. Work carefully and thoughtfully to get professional looking results. Take time to properly clean, sand, prime, and allow painted hinges to fully cure. With care, your freshly painted hardware will impress for years to come each time you open your cabinets.

Conclusion

Painting metal cabinet hinges is an easy and affordable way to update your kitchen’s look. With the right prep and painting technique, even beginners can achieve professional-looking results. Sand, prime, use thin coats of quality enamel spray paint, and give painted hinges ample drying time before reinstalling. Follow these best practices for hinges that look pristine and custom-colored to match your cabinets. Breathe new life into your kitchen’s style with a simple coat of paint on worn out hardware. So don’t be afraid to take on a weekend project painting those hinges. In no time you’ll have beautiful cabinets coordinated from top to bottom.