Can You Spray Paint a Metal Filing Cabinet?

Spray painting a metal filing cabinet can completely transform its look and help it blend in with your home or office décor. With some preparation and the right paint, you can easily upgrade the look of a boring, outdated metal cabinet. Here is a detailed guide on how to properly spray paint a metal filing cabinet to get great results.

Preparing the Metal Filing Cabinet for Painting

Before you start spraying, you need to thoroughly clean and prepare the filing cabinet’s surface so the paint adheres well. Follow these steps:

• Remove the drawers from the cabinet if possible. This gives you better access to all the surfaces when spraying.
• Clean the surfaces with a degreaser or TSP substitute to remove any oil, grease or dirt. Rinse well and let dry.
• Sand the metal lightly with 120-220 grit sandpaper to rough up the surface a bit. This helps the paint bond better.
• Wipe away all dust with a tack cloth. The surface needs to be free of contaminants.
• Apply a coat of metal primer to the filing cabinet. This provides an essential base layer for the paint to stick to. Allow the primer to dry fully before spraying on the topcoat paint.

Choosing the Right Spray Paint

For best results, you’ll want to use a directly to metal (DTM) spray paint specifically formulated for metal surfaces. Some top options include:

• Rust-Oleum DTM Acrylic Lacquer – Offers excellent corrosion resistance and a durable, scratch-resistant finish. Available in a wide range of colors.
• Krylon DTM Acrylic Enamel – Provides maximum rust protection and excellent adhesion on metal. Has a fast-drying formula.
• Montana DTM Acrylic Spray Paint – Specially designed for metal, with robust adhesion and a smooth, even finish. Has excellent fade resistance.

Avoid standard spray paints that aren’t designed for metal. The paint won’t properly bond and the finish will be less durable. DTM spray paints have special formulas and resins made for metal’s slick surface.

Spray Painting Technique

Follow these tips when spray painting the filing cabinet for a flawless look:

• Work outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Wear a respirator mask to avoid inhaling paint fumes.
• Shake the spray paint can vigorously for 1-2 minutes before starting. This mixes the pigment well.
• Hold the can 6-8 inches away from the surface and apply light, even coats. Mist on the paint instead of applying heavy coats.
• Spray using a side-to-side sweeping motion with slight overlaps between strokes.
• Let each coat dry for at least 1 hour before applying the next coat. Thin coats prevent drips and runs in the paint.
• Apply at least 2-3 thin coats for complete coverage and an even color finish.
• Let the paint cure fully for 24-48 hours before reinstalling drawers or using the filing cabinet. This allows the paint to harden properly.

Tips for a Professional Paint Job

• Mask off any adjacent surfaces with painter’s tape and paper to prevent overspray.
• Spray all sides evenly and flip the drawers to coat all areas.
• Use fine grit sandpaper to smooth any drips or uneven paint texture before applying the final coat.
• Consider using a primer + paint formula for fewer layers. Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch provides great all-in-one protection.
• Use high quality painter’s tape with delicate surfaces to avoid peeling up old paint when removing tape.

Maintaining the Newly Painted Filing Cabinet

• Allow 1-2 weeks for the spray paint to fully cure before stacking items on shelves to prevent scratching or imprinting.
• Hand wash painted surfaces gently using only mild detergent and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Reapply clear polyurethane spray every 2-3 years to renew protection and give the paint extra durability. This prevents fading over time.
• For metal filing cabinets in basements, garages or humid areas, check periodically for rust. Sand and touch up paint as needed to stop rust spread.

Spray painting old metal filing cabinets is an easy DIY project with dramatic results. Preparing the surface properly and applying thin, even coats of a DTM spray paint formulated for metal allows you to update tired cabinets with any color you choose. Be sure to give the fresh paint plenty of cure time before use for a long-lasting makeover.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spray Painting Metal Filing Cabinets

Can you use regular spray paint on a metal filing cabinet?

No, regular spray paints are not formulated for direct application onto metal surfaces. You’ll need to use a directly to metal (DTM) spray paint which offers maximum adhesion on slick metal and provides necessary corrosion resistance.

What kind of primer should be used on a metal filing cabinet?

An acrylic or epoxy-based metal primer is ideal to properly prepare the filing cabinet for painting. Rust-Oleum’s Rusty Metal Primer provides excellent corrosion resistance and adhesion.

How long does spray paint take to dry on a metal filing cabinet?

Each thin coat of DTM spray paint will dry in about 1 hour in ideal conditions. Allow the primer and each topcoat to dry fully before adding another layer. Let the spray paint cure for 24-48 hours before handling the painted filing cabinet or reloading contents.

Can you spray paint over rust on a metal filing cabinet?

No, rust should be removed before painting by sanding the area thoroughly or using a rust remover gel. Otherwise, rust will continue spreading under the new paint. Spot prime any sanded areas before spray painting.

What safety precautions should you take when spray painting?

Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear an appropriate respirator mask. Also use protective eyewear and gloves, and cover any nearby surfaces that shouldn’t get paint on them. Allow all paint fumes to dissipate before using the space again.

Conclusion

Transforming old metal filing cabinets by spray painting them yourself is an easy and inexpensive way to upgrade your space. With proper preparation, high-quality DTM spray paint, and careful application of thin, even coats, you can achieve a flawless, professional-looking finish. The result will be a filing cabinet that looks brand new and blends beautifully with your chosen decor. Just be sure to allow adequate dry and cure time before reloading the cabinet or putting it to use. With a little time and effort, your outdated metal filing cabinets can take on a whole new life.