Can You Spray Paint Metal Cabinet Hardware?
When it comes to updating your kitchen or bathroom cabinets, spray painting the hardware is an easy and affordable way to give them a fresh new look. But before you break out the spray paint cans, it’s important to understand the do’s and don’ts of spray painting metal cabinet hardware. Here’s what you need to know about the process, the best spray paints to use, and tips for getting a smooth, durable finish.
An Overview of Spray Painting Cabinet Hardware
Spray painting is a great way to update dated metal hardware like knobs, pulls, hinges and handles on cabinets. It allows you to change the color and finish quickly without having to completely replace the hardware. Most cabinet hardware is made from metals like brass, bronze, chrome, nickel, and iron. As long as you use the proper spray paint and preparation techniques, these finishes can be spray painted successfully.
The keys are proper surface preparation, choosing the right paint, applying thin and even coats, and allowing for full cure time. With the right steps, spray painted metal hardware can look freshly coated and last for years with minimal chipping or peeling.
Should You Spray Paint Metal Cabinet Hardware?
When considering a spray paint makeover for your cabinet hardware, assess if it’s actually necessary. Spray painting can refresh old, worn hardware in outdated colors. But if your hardware has a timeless finish like brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze, you may want to keep it as is.
If the metal has a cracked, peeling or scratched finish, spray paint is a cost-effective solution. It can also be a quick weekend update to wood cabinets with visible hinges. Spray painting creates a smooth coat over imperfections. It also allows you to match new hardware to existing finishes.
If your hardware just needs a good cleaning, avoid paint and try a metal polish first. Spray painting is more about altering the color and texture rather than just cleaning. Make sure you want to commit to a dramatic change before undertaking a paint project.
Prep Steps for Spray Painting Cabinet Hardware
Proper prep is crucial for success when spray painting metal hardware. Taking time to clean and lightly sand the hardware will help paint adhere smoothly. Follow these steps to get your hardware ready for spray paint:
- Remove hardware from cabinets: All hardware like knobs, pulls, hinges and handles need to be fully detached before painting. Place hardware on newspapers or drop cloths in a well-ventilated area.
- Clean hardware: Use a mild detergent and warm water to remove grease, grime and residue. For stuck-on dirt, scrub with steel wool. Rinse and dry completely. Remove any old loose paint with a paint scraper.
- Lightly sand surface: Use 220 grit sandpaper to scuff up the surface. This helps the paint adhere better. Be sure to sand evenly and wipe away all dust.
- Clean with tsp: Wipe pieces down using trisodium phosphate (tsp) mixed with water. Rinse thoroughly and let dry. Deglosser can also be used.
- Use painter’s tape: Cover any adjacent surfaces you don’t want painted. Tape off threaded areas on screws or bolts.
Choosing the Best Spray Paint for Hardware
Not all spray paints are created equal when it comes to metal. The best spray paint for hardware:
- Is specially formulated for metal surfaces
- Provides maximum adhesion and durability
- Offers protection against rust
- Is available in metal finishes like bronze, silver, gold or copper
Some top-rated spray paint brands for metal hardware include:
- Rust-Oleum Universal Metallic Spray Paint – offers metallic finishes like chrome, nickel, bronze. Contains primers for rust protection.
- Krylon Fusion All-In-One Spray Paint – suitable for indoor and outdoor use, includes primer. Good for hinges.
- Rust-Oleum Oil Rubbed Bronze Spray Paint – ideal for creating a distressed bronze patina effect.
- Krylon Copper Metallic Spray Paint – perfect for copper and brass finishes with corrosion resistance.
- Rust-Oleum High Heat Enamel Spray – high durability for exterior door handles, grill grates, outdoor lighting.
Check the manufacturer specs to ensure the spray paint can adhere to metal surfaces like iron, brass, and chrome. Avoid cheaper craft paints without the proper adhesion properties.
Best Practices for Applying Spray Paint
Applying spray paint properly is just as crucial as surface prep. Follow these tips when spray painting hardware:
- Work in a well-ventilated area outside or in a garage. Cover nearby surfaces.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for shake time and proper spray distance.
- Mist on multiple super-thin coats vs one thick coat for best adhesion.
- Allow full drying time between light coats according to the directions.
- Keep the can the same distance from the surface as you spray back and forth.
- Use smooth fluid motions with slight overlaps to prevent drips or runs.
- Rotate pieces frequently to ensure even coverage on all sides. Use painter’s tape to mask off untouched areas if needed.
- Add coats until you achieve the desired opaque, smooth finish. Metallic paints may require up to 5-6 mist coats.
- Let paint fully cure for at least 24-48 hours before reinstalling hardware.
Applying light coats prevents paint from pooling or running. Don’t try to achieve coverage all at once. Multiple sheer coats look more uniform than one heavy coat.
How Long Does Spray Paint Take to Dry on Metal?
Drying times vary based on the brand and type of spray paint used. Most spray paint dries to the touch in just 15-30 minutes. However, full cure times for metal can be up to 7 days. The painted hardware should not be used or handled too soon or the paint may scratch. Here are some general dry times:
- Tack-free dry: 30 minutes – 2 hours
- Handle dry: 2-4 hours
- Recoat dry: 1-2 hours
- Full cure: 48 hours – 7 days
For best durability, let spray paint cure on cabinet hardware for at least 48-72 hours before reinstalling. The full chemical bonding process continues for several days. Avoid excessive handling, wiping or abrasion during this cure time.
Usage and Care Tips for Spray Painted Hardware
Once your cabinet hardware is painted, you’ll want the fresh finish to last. Here are some usage and care pointers:
- Allow paint to fully cure before reinstalling hardware. Screwing pieces in too soon can damage the paint.
- Tighten screws gradually to avoid stripping paint from hinges or drill holes.
- Clean painted hardware with mild soap and water only. Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasives.
- Use soft cloths to lightly dust painted hardware. Don’t scrub roughly.
- Touch up any nicks or scratches immediately with spray paint.
- Frequently used pieces like doorknobs will show wear sooner. Plan to refresh every 2-3 years.
- For kitchen cabinet pulls, opt for satin or matte spray paints that won’t show fingerprints.
- If exterior door handles start to peel from weather, thoroughly prep and repaint.
Proper use and minimal handling keeps spray painted hardware looking its best. Touch up worn spots right away to prevent peeling or chips.
Alternative Options Beyond Spray Painting
While spray paint works well for metal cabinet hardware, it’s not the only option. Here are a few other ways to update the look:
- Buy new hardware: Replace old knobs or pulls with new ones in fresh finishes.
- Use cabinet refinishing kits: These let you refinish wood doors and drawers along with the hardware.
- Brush on paint: Use mini craft brushes and enamel or acrylic paint for full coverage.
- Try antiquing products: Brush on patinas like rust or bronze using acid solutions. Wipe on highlighting.
- Powder coat: Durable colored powder coating done by professionals provides a lasting finish.
- Vinyl wrap: Self-adhesive vinyl sheets can stick onto hardware and mimic wood, metal or color finishes.
Consider how intensively the hardware is used and how durable a finish you need when weighing spray paints vs these alternatives.
FAQs About Spray Painting Cabinet Hardware
Some common questions about spraying metal hardware include:
Can you spray paint cabinet hardware in place?
It’s best to fully detach all hardware before spray painting. Trying to paint pieces while still attached risks getting paint onto the cabinets. It’s also hard to properly prep and paint attached hardware.
What type of primer do you use before spray paint?
Most spray paints formulated for metal contain primers and don’t require a separate coat. Some may recommend their brand’s bonding primer for heavily rusted pieces. Read label directions carefully.
Should you use etching primer on metal before spray paint?
Etching primers that roughen surfaces are not necessary for most smooth cabinet hardware. Lightly scuffing with sandpaper is sufficient prep for spray paint adhesion. Only use etching primers if old paint won’t strip.
Does spray paint adhere well to oil rubbed bronze?
Oil rubbed bronze has an uneven patinated finish. Spray paint adheres decently to it, but rubbing bronze may need more frequent touch ups. Opt for spray paints with maximum adhesion.
What sheen of spray paint works best on hardware?
Satin, matte or eggshell sheens hide fingerprints and show less wear on handles. Glossy paint looks bold at first but shows every smudge. Use glossy only for accents, not all over.
Can you use spray paint on plastic hardware?
Cabinet hardware is sometimes acrylic, resin or plastic. Check labels to ensure the spray paint also works on plastic, or use a plastic primer first. Krylon Fusion spray paint works on both plastic and metal.
Final Thoughts on Spray Painting Cabinet Hardware
Updating cabinet hardware is an easy, affordable way to revive your kitchen or bath. As long as you properly prepare the surface and apply spray paint in multiple thin coats, metal hardware can be transformed. Allow adequate drying and cure time before use. Satin or matte finishes best hide fingerprints from daily wear and tear. With the right spray paint and application technique, you can give worn metal hardware a striking new look that holds up for years.
How to Properly Prep Metal Cabinet Hardware for Spray Painting
Achieving a smooth, durable spray painted finish on metal cabinet hardware requires diligent prep work. Proper cleaning, light sanding, and priming are key to helping the paint adhere. Rushing through prep leads to chipping, peeling or uneven coverage. Follow these steps to get metal ready for spray paint:
Remove Hardware and Disassemble
All hardware needs to be fully taken off the cabinets prior to prep and painting. Remove hinges, knobs, pulls, latches and handles. Take apart any pieces that can separate further. Removing hardware allows you to prep and paint all sides evenly.
Clean with Household Detergent
Thoroughly wash hardware using a mild detergent or degreasing soap. Scrub off any built-up grease, oils, wax residue and grime. For stuck-on debris around screw holes, use a small wire brush. Rinse pieces well and let them fully dry.
Sand Lightly with Fine Grit Sandpaper
Once dry, sand hardware using 220 or 320 grit sandpaper. Lightly scuff the surface to remove any glossy finish or shine. This roughening helps the spray paint bind better. Take care not to aggressively scratch the metal. Just a quick scuffing is sufficient.
Remove All Dust and Debris
Carefully wipe away all dust left from sanding using a tack cloth or microfiber towel. Make sure the surface is completely clean and dry again before painting. Any debris left behind can get trapped in the paint.
Clean with TSP or Deglosser
For a stronger clean, you can wipe metal hardware using trisodium phosphate (TSP) diluted in warm water. Rinse off any chemical residue thoroughly. An alternative is a deglossing agent applied with a rag. This further preps for paint.
Use Painter’s Tape to Mask Off Areas
Cover any surfaces adjacent to the hardware using painter’s tape. This prevents overspray getting onto the cabinets or counters. Also tape off any threaded areas, holes or parts you don’t want painted.
Apply Primer if Needed
Most quality spray paints contain built-in primers. But for heavily tarnished or rusty metal, applying a dedicated primer first can improve coverage. Opt for a metal or rust-preventing primer made for top-coating with spray paints.
Thorough prep removes any barriers between the raw metal and spray paint. Taking these steps leads to beautiful, long-lasting finishes. Be sure to read all safety instructions when using harsh cleaners, primers or paints. Properly prepped metal accepts spray paint much better.
Choosing the Best Spray Paint Finish for Cabinet Hardware
When selecting a spray paint for kitchen or bathroom cabinet hardware, the finish you choose impacts the look, durability and ease of maintenance. Consider these popular sheens to determine the best spray paint finish for your hardware:
Matte Finish
Matte or flat spray paint has a non-reflective look with a chalky, texture. It seems to dry to a softer finish. Matte works well for heavily used hardware since it disguises fingerprints or light scratches. It provides a timeworn, vintage appearance. The downside is matte paint can scuff up easier.
Eggshell Finish
Slightly more sheen than flat matte, eggshell finishes have a subtle glow. They still hide fingerprints fairly well. Eggshell works nicely on cabinet pulls, knobs and handles since it holds up to handling but doesn’t show every smudge. The finish has enough luster to give some dimension.
Satin Finish
With a smooth, low luster, satin spray paints have a bit more shine than eggshell but less than gloss. Of all finishes, satin has the best blend of durability, easy cleaning and decorative appeal. It disguises fingerprints better than glossy. Satin spray paint is ideal for nearly all cabinet hardware.
Semi-Gloss Finish
More luminous than satin, semi-gloss paint has medium reflective qualities. It’s easy to clean and holds up to scrubbing on frequently used pieces like handles. Semi-gloss gives hardware a finished polished look. But it may require more frequent touch ups as wear becomes visible.
Gloss Finish
Gloss and high-gloss spray paints have a full mirror-like sheen when dry. They provide a bold, shiny metallic appearance on hardware at first. But gloss paint eventually reveals every fingerprint and smudge mark through heavy use. Gloss works better as an accent rather than an all-over finish.
Considering sheen needs along with the style of hardware helps select the perfect spray paint finish. The more discreet satin and eggshell sheens work best for most cabinet hardware applications. Their subtle glow hides normal wear.
How to Apply Spray Paint to Cabinet Hardware Evenly
Achieving an evenly coated finish takes some technique when spray painting cabinet hardware. Rushing the process or holding cans too close can cause drips. Here are some tips for flawless spray paint application:
Work in a Well-Ventilated Area
Spray paint projects are best done outside in your driveway or in a garage with the door wide open. If you must paint indoors, open all windows and shut off central heat and cooling. Cover any nearby surfaces with plastic sheeting.
Shake Cans Thoroughly
Before starting, shake spray paint cans vigorously for at least one full minute. This mixes the pigment and solvents together for optimal atomization and flow through the nozzle. Never skip this important step!
Maintain Proper Spray Distance
Read manufacturer’s directions for recommended spray distance from the surface, usually 6 to 10 inches. Holding cans too close causes drips. Too far weakens coverage. Keep the can the same distance as you spray.
Use Steady Back and Forth Motions
Move the spray can at a constant speed in even passes over the surface of hardware pieces. Going too fast or slowing mid-spray causes uneven coating. Practice pacing first on cardboard.
Apply Multiple Thin Coats
Lightly mist on 2-3 sheer coats rather than trying to get full coverage upfront. Thin coats prevent drips and runs in the paint. Allow proper drying time between coats.
Rotate Hardware Frequently
In between coats, flip over hardware often to spray all areas. Use painter’s tape to mask off untouched sections if needed. Thoroughly coat all sides for a uniform finish.
Check for Drips or Runs
Inspect after each light coat for any drips forming at edges and crevices. Catch runs using the corner of a rag before the next coat. Applying too much paint at once causes pooling.
Proper spray paint application takes patience, but creates flawless finishes. Multiple sheer coats look more polished than a single thick, dripping coat. Take your time for professional results.
How Long Does Spray Paint Take to Dry on Metal Cabinet Hardware?
When refinishing metal cabinet hardware with spray paint, it’s crucial to allow adequate drying time between coats and before use. Rushing the drying process can ruin the paint job and finish. Here are the general guidelines:
Tack Dry Time
Within 15-30 minutes of application, spray paint will feel dry to the touch on metal hardware. The surface is no longer tacky, but not fully set. Don’t handle pieces or apply another coat during this initial phase.
Recoat/Handle Dry Time
After 1-2 hours, spray paint has hardened enough that you can gently pick up each piece to turn or flip sides for another coat. The paint is not yet fully bonded to the metal.
Full Dry Cure Time
A full dry cure takes at least 48-72 hours before metal hardware can be safely used and reinstalled. During this phase, the paint fully dries, bonds and hardens through its chemical process.
