How to Add Corrugated Metal to Cabinet Doors

Adding corrugated metal to cabinet doors is an easy way to give your kitchen or bathroom a modern, industrial look. The rippled texture of corrugated metal provides visual interest and dimension to otherwise flat cabinet fronts. With just a few basic tools and materials, you can transform the look of your cabinets in a weekend.

What You’ll Need

• Corrugated metal sheets – These come in various metals like galvanized steel, aluminum, copper, etc. Purchase sheets sized according to your cabinet doors.
• Metal snips – For cutting the sheets to size.
• Drill with assorted drill bits
• Screws
• Silicone adhesive
• Enamel paint (optional) – For protecting and colorizing raw metal sheets.

Prepare the Corrugated Metal Sheets

• Carefully measure the height and width of each cabinet door. Leave an extra 1-2 inches on all sides for overlap.
• Use metal snips to cut corrugated sheets to these door dimensions. The cutting action of the snips will curl the edges slightly.
• File or sand the edges so they are straight and smooth.
• If desired, paint the cut sheets with enamel spray paint suitable for metal. This provides color and protection from corrosion.

Affix the Metal to Cabinet Doors

• Lightly scuff sand the cabinet door surfaces to help the adhesive bind.
• Apply a zig-zag bead of silicone adhesive to the back of the cut corrugated sheet, about 1/2″ from edges.
• Press the metal sheet firmly onto the center of the cabinet door, aligning edges as desired.
• Drill pilot holes through the metal into the underlying cabinet door about every 6 inches around the perimeter and halfway towards the middle.
• Drive screws through the pilot holes to securely fix the metal to the cabinet door. Wipe away any excess silicone squeeze-out.

Considerations

• For best results, attach corrugated metal to flat center panel doors. Doors with raised panels or framing may require extra modification.
• Opt for galvanized or aluminum sheets for kitchens and humidity-prone bathrooms. Raw steel requires sealing to prevent corrosion.
• Sheet edges that wrap around door sides may impede door swing. Cut notches if needed.
• Painted metal can chip if subjected to impact. Consider adding a clear coat for protection.
• When handling and cutting metal, wear thick work gloves and eye protection. Metal edges are extremely sharp.

Adding some cool rippled metal takes basic cabinet doors from boring to bold. With the help of adhesive and some clever DIY, it’s simple to add this leading-edge look to your home. So break out those snips and revamp your cabinetry with corrugated metal panels. You’ll love the contemporary industrial vibe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Adding Corrugated Metal to Cabinet Doors

What type of corrugated metal works best?

Galvanized steel is a great option since it is affordable, easy to find, and withstands moisture well. Aluminum is lightweight and resistant to corrosion. Copper offers a more expensive, high-end look. Avoid raw steel as it can rust.

What tools do I need?

Metal snips for cutting, a drill with assorted bits for pilot holes, screws for attachment, silicone adhesive to stick the metal on, and sandpaper/files for smoothing edges. Work gloves and eye protection are a must.

What is the best way to attach the metal?

Applying silicone adhesive in a zigzag pattern across the back, drilling pilot holes, and using screws spaced every 6 inches around the perimeter securely holds the metal in place long-term.

Should I paint the metal before or after installation?

It’s best to paint corrugated sheets before attaching them. Once affixed to the door, spray paint may seep beneath the edges and be visible. Priming front and back also protects from corrosion.

Can I apply corrugated metal to doors with raised panels?

Yes, but the uneven surface requires extra modification. Use auto body filler to smooth over grooves and build up the center panel area to be flat before adding the metal.

How do I prevent the rough metal edges from scratching me?

File or sand the cut edges smooth. For extra protection, fold edges back or apply iron-on edge banding to wrap the metal sides. Use touch up paint on banded edges.

What’s the best way to cut detailed shapes or notches?

Aviation snips allow you to cut smooth curves and notches needed for working around knobs, hinges, or tight spaces. A scrolling jigsaw blade also works for specialty shapes.

Conclusion

Adding corrugated metal is a relatively easy DIY project that can give dull cabinetry an eye-catching, contemporary look. With some simple preparation of the metal sheets and cabinet doors, plus proper cutting, drilling, adhesive, and screw attachment, you can install rippled metal panels in a weekend. Take safety precautions, go slow, and don’t be afraid to get creative with materials like galvanized steel, copper, or aluminum. In no time your kitchen or bathroom will have custom cabinets with cool modern industrial style.