How to Cover Up Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Clean Cabinets Thoroughly
Before covering your metal cabinets, make sure to clean them thoroughly first. Remove any grease or grime buildup using a degreasing cleaner formulated for kitchen use. Scrub cabinets with a soft brush or sponge. Rinse and dry completely so the new covering adheres properly. Address any rust issues on metal cabinets before covering them.
Choose a Covering Material
There are several options for covering metal kitchen cabinets:
Paint
Painting is an affordable way to update the look of metal cabinets. For best adhesion, use a bonding primer followed by two coats of cabinet-grade enamel paint. Opt for satin or semi-gloss sheens for easy cleaning. White is a popular choice for a fresh, bright look. Consider complementing wall paint colors.
Contact Paper
Self-adhesive contact paper provides an easy peel-and-stick solution for covering cabinets. Choose paper with a plastic laminate finish for durability and moisture resistance in the kitchen. Contact paper allows you to get a new look without sanding or priming.
Thermofoil
For a seamless finish, consider thermofoil sheets made specifically for cabinet covers. Thermofoil has a plastic coating over a woodgrain pattern. A professional installer can wrap existing cabinet boxes with thermofoil for a durable and completely refreshed look.
Veneer
Real wood veneers offer high-end style for covering worn cabinets. Veneer panels can be applied over cabinet surfaces and edged with matching trim. Opt for moisture-resistant veneers like maple or birch to withstand kitchen use. Professional installation is recommended.
Tile
For a backsplash look, adhere tile to the front of upper cabinets or along lower cabinet doors. Use grout and sealant rated for kitchen use. Tile adds texture and color for an updated style. Accent with glass mosaic tiles.
Prep Cabinets for Covering
Proper prep work ensures your covering adheres properly for the long term:
- Remove cabinet doors and hardware
- Sand surfaces lightly to rough up the finish
- Clean and degrease cabinets thoroughly
- Fill any holes or flaws with wood filler and sand smooth
- Prime bare metal spots with a bonding primer
Add Trim for Seamless Finish
Combining your covering material with coordinating trim achieves a built-in look:
- Install covering material of your choice as directed
- Apply adhesive edge banding around edges of doors and face frames
- Use molding strips to conceal any visible seams
- Seal all edges with clear caulk for smooth transitions
Reinstall Doors and Hardware
The final step is reinstalling cabinet doors, handles and knobs. Updating the hardware is an easy way to complete the transformation with a modern or vintage style.
How to Cover Metal Kitchen Cabinets FAQ
Covering metal kitchen cabinets to update their look is a budget-friendly DIY project. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
What type of paint adheres best to metal cabinets?
A bonding primer followed by cabinet-grade enamel paints will adhere best to smooth metal surfaces. Opt for satin or semi-gloss finishes for durability and easy cleaning.
Can I use wallpaper to cover metal cabinets?
Wallpaper is not recommended for covering metal kitchen cabinets which are exposed to moisture. Contact paper or vinyl wraps with a plastic laminate finish are better options.
What about covering just the cabinet doors?
You can certainly just cover metal cabinet doors rather than the entire cabinet box. This allows changing the look without taking cabinets off the wall.
Should I remove old hardware before covering cabinets?
Yes, remove hinges, knobs and handles before covering cabinets to allow for a smooth finish. Reinstall hardware after the covering is complete.
Is it okay to cover over rust spots on metal cabinets?
No, rust should be removed before covering metal cabinets. Sand any problem spots, prime with rust-inhibiting primer and repaint for best results.
What’s the easiest covering to remove later?
Contact paper can easily be removed when desired since it uses a peel-and-stick application and does not require priming or sanding.
Covering worn metal kitchen cabinets offers an inexpensive and stylish way to update the heart of your home – the kitchen. With some elbow grease and creativity, you can transform the look of metal cabinets and refresh your kitchen’s style. Consult the tips above to choose the best covering solution and prep properly for a successful DIY cabinet makeover.
