Can You Spray Paint Metal Cabinet Hinges?

Spray painting metal cabinet hinges is a simple DIY project that can update the look of your kitchen or bathroom cabinets. With some preparation and the right spray paint, you can easily change the color of your hinges to match your cabinets or hardware. Here is a detailed guide on how to properly spray paint metal cabinet hinges.

Introduction

Spray painting is an affordable and easy way to refresh old, worn-out, or dated metal cabinet hinges. It allows you to match new hinges to your existing cabinet color without the high cost of replacing all the hardware. While spray painting hinges is straightforward, there are some key steps to follow for best results. Proper preparation and using spray paint formulated for metal will help the fresh paint adhere properly and avoid chipping or peeling over time.

Benefits of Spray Painting Metal Hinges

• Cost-effective: Much less expensive than replacing all cabinet hardware. Cans of spray paint are just a few dollars.
• Quick: Painting the hinges is a project that can be completed in an afternoon. No major time commitment.
• Easy: With some basic prep, spray paint applies easily for anyone.
• Update appearance: Choose any color paint to match cabinets or new hardware. Completely change look.
• DIY project: No need to hire a professional. Simple enough for a homeowner.

What You’ll Need

Before starting to spray paint the hinges, make sure you have the necessary supplies:

• Metal primer spray paint
• Spray paint in desired color
• Sandpaper (150- and 220-grit recommended)
• Painter’s tape
• Drop cloths or newspapers
• Painters pyramids for positioning hinges
• Masking tape
• Tarp or cardboard to cover workspace
• Clean rags
• Paper towels
• Rubbing alcohol or cleaner
• Small disposable paintbrushes
• Q-tips
• Safety gear (gloves, face mask if spray painting indoors)

Preparing the Hinges

Proper prep work is crucial for the spray paint to adhere correctly to the metal hinges without chipping or peeling later on. Follow these steps:

Remove Hinges

Use a screwdriver to detach each hinge from the cabinet frame. Place hardware in a small container or bag to keep organized.

Clean Completely

Wipe down each hinge using a clean rag and rubbing alcohol to remove any dirt, oil or grease. Make sure surfaces are completely clean.

Sand Lightly

Use 150-grit sandpaper to scuff up the surface of the hinges. This helps the paint adhere better. Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth.

Position with Painter’s Pyramids

Set up painter’s pyramids on your work surface and place each hinge on a pyramid. This allows you to paint all sides.

Tape Off Areas

Use painter’s tape to cover any areas you don’t want painted, like where the hinge attaches to the cabinet.

Clean Again

Give the hinges one final wipe down with a tack cloth to remove any remaining dust right before painting.

Spray Painting the Hinges

Once your preparation work is complete, you’re ready to apply the spray paint. Follow these directions for the best results:

Apply Primer

Start by applying 1-2 thin coats of metal primer spray paint. Follow the directions on the can for proper application and drying time. The primer helps the color paint adhere.

Apply Color Paint

Next, use your color choice spray paint to apply 2-3 thin coats until fully covered, allowing proper dry time between coats. Thin coats prevent dripping.

Second Coat of Color

Follow up with a second coat of the color spray paint to ensure fully covered and even coverage.

Remove Painter’s Tape

Once fully dry, carefully remove all painter’s tape and pyramids. Reattaching the hinges before the paint fully cures could cause chipping.

Allow Proper Cure Time

It’s important to let the spray paint cure according to the directions on the can, usually at least 24 hours, before reattaching the hinges. This helps prevent chips when opening and closing cabinets.

Spray Painting Tips

Follow these tips when spray painting your hinges for best results:

• Work in a well-ventilated area. Spray paint outdoors if possible.
• Hold can 6-8 inches from surface. Keep can moving while spraying.
• Use thin, even coats and avoid runs. Several light coats are better than one thick coat.
• Always follow directions on cans for proper dry time between coats.
• Use painter’s pyramids to allow access to all sides and angles.
• Tape off any areas you don’t want painted.
• Wear safety gear like gloves and a face mask, especially when painting indoors.

Curing and Reattaching the Hinges

Patience is key after spray painting. Make sure to follow the paint manufacturer’s directions for proper curing time before reinstalling the hinges. Attaching too soon can cause chips and peels.

Once fully cured, use a screwdriver to reattach the hinges in the original positions. Check that each cabinet door aligns properly and closes correctly once the freshly painted hinges are reinstalled.

Maintaining the Spray Painted Hinges

The work doesn’t stop once your hinges are spray painted and reattached. Proper maintenance is required to keep your hinges looking fresh over time. Here are a few tips:

• Use care when opening and closing cabinet doors. Too much force can lead to paint chips.
• Consider applying a clear sealer spray to add extra protection from chipping.
• Avoid harsh cleaners, scouring pads, or abrasives near the painted hinges.
• For any touch ups, use the original spray paint and follow all preparation steps.

Why Hire a Professional?

While spray painting hinges is totally doable as a DIY project, some homeowners may opt to hire a professional painter for a couple reasons:

• Convenience: A pro can complete the project start to finish so you don’t have to worry about any steps.
• Expertise: They have lots of experience spray painting all types of surfaces and applications.
• Better setup: Pros have access to professional grade spray equipment, wide color selection, on-site ventilation, etc.
• Save cabinet doors: A pro can remove doors and paint hinges off-site so no risk of paint getting on cabinets.

If you want your hinges painted but don’t want the hassle of a DIY project, consider hiring a qualified professional painter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of spray paint should I use?

Use spray paint formulated for metal surfaces, such as Rust-Oleum Universal Metallic spray paint. Make sure to use primer first.

How long does the paint need to cure before reattaching hinges?

Check the directions on your spray paint can, but typically 24-48 hours of cure time is recommended before reinstalling cabinet hinges to avoid chipping.

Can I just paint over the old finish?

It’s best to remove old paint or finish completely with a stripping gel before painting. New paint adheres much better to a clean, bare metal surface after sanding.

What causes the paint to chip?

Chipping is usually caused by not fully preparing the surface, insufficient dry time between coats, or attaching the hinges before the paint has fully cured.

Is spray painting suitable for hinges that get heavy use?

Frequently opened cabinet doors may eventually show some chipping at the hinge points. Consider a highly durable enamel spray paint formulated for metal.

Conclusion

Updating worn and outdated metal cabinet hinges is easy with some simple preparation and spray paint. Match the hinges to new hardware or cabinet color without the high cost of replacing everything. Just be sure to properly prepare so the fresh paint adheres correctly. Allow proper cure time before reattaching to avoid unsightly chips and peels. With some patience, spray painting metal hinges can give your kitchen or bath a brand new look.