Kitchen cabinets are an essential component of any kitchen. They provide storage, organization, and display space. While many modern kitchens utilize modular cabinetry systems, older homes often have original or vintage metal kitchen cabinets. These sturdy metal cabinets were commonplace from the early 1900s through the 1950s.

Understanding how old metal kitchen cabinets were originally mounted and installed provides useful insight into kitchen renovation projects. When undertaking kitchen remodeling involving metal cabinets, knowing the original mounting techniques assists in cabinet removal, refurbishment, reinstallation and integration with modern elements.

An Overview of Vintage Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Metal kitchen cabinets emerged as a popular option in the early 20th century. Before this time, wooden cabinetry and open shelving were more common.

Advantages of Metal Kitchen Cabinets:

• Durable and long-lasting compared to wood
• Resist moisture, warping and pests
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Streamlined mass production enabled affordable pricing
• Available in a range of colors like white, chrome and stainless steel

Many homes built between 1920-1950 contain original metal kitchen cabinets. Styles include:

• Porcelain-covered steel cabinets with painted exteriors
• Stainless steel cabinets with clean lines and chrome/silver accents
• Galvanized steel cabinets with a more industrial aesthetic

Brands like Youngstown, Porcelain Steel, and Metal Kitchen Cabinets were leading vintage metal cabinet manufacturers.

While sturdy and durable, these vintage metal cabinets used mounting techniques that differ from modern modular installations.

How Were Vintage Metal Cabinets Mounted and Installed?

Metal kitchen cabinets were mounted in a range of ways depending on the specific cabinet style and era. However, some common traits exist:

Permanent Installation

Vintage metal cabinets were designed for permanent installation. The goal was stabilizing heavy cabinetry in place over a long lifetime. This resulted in mounting techniques using permanent fasteners applied directly to walls and floors.

For home renovations, this permanent installation poses challenges when removing original metal cabinetry. Careful cabinet removal is required to avoid unnecessary damage.

Securing Cabinets Together

Individual metal cabinets were manufactured in standard widths, like 24 or 36 inches wide. To outfit a full kitchen, multiple cabinet components were secured together into long runs.

Connecting techniques included:

• Welding cabinets together for seamless built-in appearance
• Riveting or bolting cabinets together using angle irons
• Joining with screws hidden behind gaskets, trim or doors

Understanding these connections facilitates full cabinet removal or selective refurbishment.

Mounting to Walls

Wall mounting was key to stabilizing metal kitchen cabinets. Common techniques included:

Back mounting:

• Securing to wall studs with long screws through cabinet back panels
• Nailing through back panel into studs and adding screws for extra support

Side/End mounting:

• Angle irons attached to sides secured to wall studs
• Clips, hangers or strips mounted on ends anchored into walls

Proper wall mounting provided shear strength to prevent lateral cabinet movement. It also prevented tilting/tipping and reinforced overall rigidity.

Mounting to Ceilings and Floors

For maximum stability, metal kitchen cabinets were also fixed directly to ceilings and floors.

Ceiling mounting methods:

• Cabinet tops attached to ceiling with clips, angles or hangers
• Nailing top trim directly into ceiling then covering seams with molding

Floor mounting techniques:

• Base trim nailed into flooring then covered with molding strips
• Front kickplate anchored to flooring with clips or screws
• Toe kick dividers secured through cabinet bottoms into floor

Ceiling and floor integration resulted in metal cabinets permanently anchored into all surrounding building elements. This created an integrated appearance while preventing any shifting or movement over decades of use.

Original Installation Considerations

When renovating a vintage kitchen, understanding how metal cabinets were originally mounted provides insights on updated integration and installation.

Cabinet Removal

Permanent mounting techniques mean meticulous removal is required to prevent damage to surrounding surfaces. Cabinets must be detached from each other, freed from walls, floors and ceilings. Careful extraction allows preservation of original cabinets.

Structural Blocking

Blocking refers to wood pieces installed behind walls to facilitate mounting. Identifying existing blocking helps efficiently supplement when reinstalling original or new cabinets.

Utility Locations

The fixed nature of vintage metal cabinetry meant appliances and plumbing fixtures were retrofitted around them. Mapping original utilities assists updated integration.

Flooring and Ceilings

Floor and ceiling repairs may be needed after removing fixed metal cabinets. For example, holes, staining and inconsistencies left after detaching kickplates or ceiling mountings may require patching and refinishing.

Working with Existing Walls

Original wall surfacing may be incompatible with newly mounted cabinets. For instance, heavily textured plaster under metal cabinets can interfere with remounting unless smoothed and prepared.

Refurbishment and Reinstallation Options

When revitalizing a vintage kitchen with original metal cabinets, they can either be refurbished and reinstalled or replaced with new cabinetry.

Refurbishing Original Cabinets

Properly removing vintage metal cabinets allows retention and restoration for modern use.

Refurbishment tips:

• Strip paint, grime and residue to reveal pristine metal
• Sand surfaces to prepare for new paint if needed
• Straighten and repair dents if present
• Replace broken or missing hardware like hinges and latches
• Add new trim, handles and accessories for style update

Refurbished metal cabinets maintain vintage character while getting a fresh look. They can then be reinstalled using updated mounting techniques.

Partial or Full Replacement

If vintage metal cabinets are damaged or insufficient for current needs, partial or full replacement may be warranted.

For partial replacement, a few sections of original cabinets can be augmented with new cabinetry integrated into the existing layout. This preserves some of the original look.

With full replacement, the vintage metal cabinets are removed and replaced with an entirely new, modern modular cabinet system. This provides a seamless updated appearance and utility. However, historic kitchen character is lost.

The option chosen depends on cabinet condition, functional needs, kitchen size and overall project goals.

Modern Installation Techniques

While metal cabinets were once mounted permanently, modular installation is now standard. This facilitates kitchen evolutions over time. Modern mounting options include:

Wall Mounting

Like vintage cabinets, wall mounting provides primary support. However, attachment is into cleats, rails or ledger boards rather than direct to studs. This allows adjustments or full removal.

Floating Cabinets

Freestanding or floating cabinets have emerged for easy reconfiguration. Full-height anchored side panels support base, wall and upper cabinets inaccessible from the rear.

Mixing Permanent and Modular

Long runs of cabinets can utilize permanent installation on ends while interior sections use modular mounting. This combines stability with flexibility.

Integrated Appliances

Instead of retrofitting appliances around fixed cabinetry, modern kitchens integrate appliances into modular cabinet systems. Streamlined results are achieved.

Accessible Utilities

Plumbing, electric and ventilation are designed into cabinet configurations rather than routed around them. Keeping utilities accessible simplifies updates.

Achieving an Updated, Integrated Look

The fixed nature of vintage metal cabinets often meant disjointed appliances, utilities and awkward proportions. With thoughtful revitalization, metal cabinets can be blended into a cohesive updated kitchen.

Transitional Trimwork

Bridging old with new cabinetry can be achieved with trimwork. Consistent and continuous trim elements provide visual continuity.

Selectively Mixing Materials

Combining refurbished metal cabinets with new painted wood or laminate cabinetry allows a coordinated blend. Mixing open shelving and glass cabinet doors also modernizes the look.

Unified Appliances

Select appliances in a matching suite, like all stainless steel or black, to tie old and new elements together. Hoods, sinks and faucets can strengthen the integrated aesthetic.

Updated Hardware

Changing all hardware to the same modern handles and pulls generates cohesion. Complementary fixtures also bring together old and new components.

Skillful Design

An experienced kitchen designer artfully blends layout, textures, colors, lighting and proportions. This is key to achieving a holistic updated kitchen.

Conclusion

Old metal kitchen cabinets mounted using permanent techniques reflect now-obsolete installation methods. But these durable vintage cabinets can be revitalized with proper understanding of original mounting.

Whether refurbishing originals or integrating new cabinetry, outdated metal cabinets can be updated for modern kitchens with careful removal, restoration and creative blending of old and new elements. The result is a kitchen with a refreshed yet classic vibe.

With meticulous workmanship and thoughtful design, those seeking to reimagine a kitchen can honor the past while also building a fabulous space for years to come. Vintage metal cabinets remain a charming and practical option when undertaken with care and expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mounting Old Metal Kitchen Cabinets

1. How were old metal kitchen cabinets originally installed? Old metal kitchen cabinets were typically installed permanently using fasteners directed into walls, ceilings and floors. Individual cabinets were welded, riveted or bolted together. Backs were screwed into wall studs, while trim and kickplates were nailed into surrounding building elements.
2. How are metal kitchen cabinets from the 1920s-1950s mounted? Vintage metal cabinets from the 1920s through 1950s used permanent mounting techniques like nailing and screw fastening to walls, riveting cabinets together, and anchoring to floors and ceilings. The cabinets were fixed permanently into position.
3. How should old metal cabinets be removed for kitchen remodeling? Carefully detach metal cabinets from each other, walls, ceilings and floors using techniques like prying, unscrewing and hammering out nails. Avoid damaging surrounding areas during removal. Removing adjacent components like soffits may provide access.
4. Can original vintage metal cabinets be reinstalled after renovations? Yes, vintage metal cabinets can be refurbished, restored and reused. After careful removal, clean, repair, repaint and update the original cabinets. Then reinstall using modern modular mounting techniques.
5. What are some tips for integrating old metal cabinets with new cabinetry? For a cohesive look blending old and new, utilize consistent trim molding, selectively mix cabinet materials and styles, unify appliance suites and hardware, and employ skillful kitchen design focused on overall flow and aesthetics.
6. How are modern kitchen cabinets installed differently than vintage metal cabinets? Modern cabinetry uses modular installation like mounting to cleats instead of direct to studs. This allows adjustments and cabinet removal. Appliances are integrated rather than retrofitted. Utilities remain accessible instead of being routed around permanent cabinet runs.
7. What kind of wall preparation is needed behind old metal cabinets? Walls may need smoothing if heavily textured from plaster applied around permanently installed metal cabinets. Blocking inside walls can reinforce reinstallation. Damaged areas left after cabinet removal may require patching and painting.
8. Can only some of the original metal cabinets be kept when renovating a kitchen? Yes, partial replacement is an option. A few sections of vintage metal cabinets can be retained while replacing others with new cabinetry integrated into the existing kitchen layout.
9. How can the look of new and old cabinets be blended together? Using consistent trim molding assists visual flow. Mixing some refinished metal cabinets with painted wood or laminate generates cohesion. Unified modern hardware and appliances also help integrate old and new components.
10. Why were old metal kitchen cabinets installed permanently instead of modularly? Metal kitchen cabinets preceded the shift to modular cabinetry. They were mounted permanently to provide structural integrity and prevent movement or damage over decades of use in a fixed kitchen layout. Modular installation provides more flexibility.

How to Mount Refurbished Vintage Metal Kitchen Cabinets

When undertaking kitchen remodeling involving original vintage metal cabinets, you may want to reinstall some or all of the refurbished metal cabinets using updated mounting techniques. Here are some tips:

Prepare the Refurbished Cabinets

• Strip, clean, sand and repaint or polish cabinets to desired finish
• Reinforce structure with bracing or angle irons if needed
• Add updated trim, handles, knobs and other accessories

Plan Cabinet Layout

• Decide which original cabinets to reuse and integrate into new layout
• Identify locations for new supplementary cabinetry

Install Mounting Systems

• Use ledger boards, battens, rails or cleats instead of direct to studs
• Place mounting systems at proper heights for reused metal cabinets
• Ensure adequate support for cabinet weight and anchors suited to wall materials

Attach Cabinets

• Fasten into ledger boards or hanging rails using screws with washers
• Use sturdy L-brackets for field support where needed
• Attach adjacent cabinets together with bolts or clips instead of permanently welding

Include Functional Spacers

• Insert spacers between cabinet and wall to allow utilities, ventilation
• Make plumbing and electric accessible behind cabinets

Add Supports

• Install sturdy legs or feet to support base cabinets if not attaching directly to floor
• Use corner braces for extra reinforcement

Allow for Adjustability

• Leave room for adjustments using slotted holes in mounting strips
• Use grooves, shims or levelers to enable cabinet leveling after installation

With proper planning and installation techniques, refurbished metal cabinets can be mounted to complement modern modular cabinetry while maintaining their vintage appeal.

Integrating Vintage Metal Cabinets into a Modern Kitchen

The clean lines and durable steel construction of vintage metal cabinets lend them to being refreshed and incorporated into updated kitchen designs. Here are some tips for successful integration with modern elements:

Mix and Match Styles

Blending updated cabinets like painted wood or sleek laminate with refinished metal cabinets adds depth. Include glass-front upper cabinets for an airy counterpoint to metal bases.

Unify with Color

Use color to create cohesion. For example, paint new wooden cabinets and refinished metal cabinets the same on-trend hue like sage green or deep blue.

Overlay with Natural Materials

Warm up metal cabinets by topping them with rich-looking natural stone like marble or quartzite for the countertop surface. Or add a live-edge wood slab as a unique accent.

Contrast with Dark and Light

Playing off dark and light cabinets generates interest. Try pairing glossy black laminate uppers with refinished stainless-steel bases. Or combine matte white upper cabinets with light grey metal lowers.

Remove Permanent Add-Ons

For a streamlined look, take off old trim, kickplates or braces. Refinish cabinet boxes to a clean, simple form.

Embrace Industrial Edge

Capitalize on metal’s industrial vibe. Add edgy pendant lights, factory-style windows or a stainless steel apron-front sink.

Keep Some Retro Detailing

For mid-century appeal, leave vintage hardware like wire pulls or bakelite knobs on some metal cabinets. Use colorful retro appliances to complement.

Divide Spaces Creatively

Use refurbished metal cabinets as a sleek divider between kitchen zones or to hide clutter instead of upper cabinets. Open shelving maintains an airy vibe.

With strategic blending of materials, styles and colors, those nostalgic metal cabinets can be given renewed life within a fresh, modern kitchen space.

Common Challenges When Remounting Vintage Metal Cabinets

While refurbished metal cabinets bring retro appeal, reinstalling them alongside modern elements comes with some unique challenges:

Incompatible Wall Surfaces

Heavily textured wall plaster or damaged areas behind previous cabinets may impede proper remounting. Reflattening surfaces provides needed smoothness.

Limited Adjustability

Vintage cabinets lack modular components and incremental adjustments of modern cabinetry. Precise measuring ensures good fits.

Weight Imbalance

Thick steel cabinets are heavier than typical modern options. Proper reinforcement and supportive mounting prevent sagging or detachment.

Fixed Sizes

Standard widths like 24 inches can cause gaps or alignment issues. Filler panels or trim pieces can disguise uneven dimensions.

Permanent Previous Mounts

Holes, fasteners or adhesives used in original installation may remain. Filling previous mounts and reinforcing walls prevents remounting challenges.

No Back Access

Limited rear access makes leveling tricky. Front adjustment mechanisms and spacers provide needed accessibility.

Rust Development

Moisture penetrating worn finishes or undetected existing rust may complicate refurbishing and reuse. Thorough cleansing and quality primers prevent further rust issues.

Uneven Floors and Walls

Vintage homes often have unlevel floors and out-of-plumb walls. Shims and grout buildup compensate for inconsistencies during reinstallation.

Code Constraints

Current building codes may require additional reinforcement for ceiling or upper wall-mounted cabinets. Integrating needed structural supports facilitates approval.

With creative problem-solving and adaptive techniques, the unique aspects of vintage metal cabinets can be overcome for a successfully updated kitchen.

FAQ About Refurbishing and Reinstalling Metal Kitchen Cabinets

1. How should I clean old metal cabinets before refurbishing them? Use a degreaser to remove old residue and dirt. Sand surfaces lightly to prep for new paint. Avoid harsh abrasives that can damage the metal.
2. What kind of new finish should I apply to refurbished metal cabinets? High-quality enamels, epoxies or urethanes formulated for metal provide durable and washable finishes. Avoid latex paints that chip easily.
3. Can I change the layout of my vintage metal cabinets when reinstalling them? It is possible to rearrange them to improve flow or meet current needs, but limited adjustability requires accurate planning. Filler pieces disguise gaps.
4. Should I remove old wall plaster behind original metal cabinets? Heavily textured plaster may need smoothing to allow the cabinets to sit flush on remounting. Patch cracks or damage