How to Makeover Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets play an important functional and aesthetic role in any kitchen. Over time, metal kitchen cabinets can start to show wear and look outdated. Instead of undergoing a full kitchen remodel, you may want to consider refreshing your existing metal cabinets with a makeover. Making over metal kitchen cabinets allows you to update their appearance and give your kitchen a new look for a fraction of the cost of installing brand new cabinetry.

There are several methods for making over metal kitchen cabinets depending on your budget, skills, desired results and the condition of your existing cabinet boxes. Simple makeover options include cleaning, painting, adding new hardware and updating interior fittings. More complex makeovers options involve refacing cabinets by replacing doors and drawer fronts or resurfacing cabinets by applying new laminate or veneer. Read on to learn about all the possibilities for metal kitchen cabinet makeovers.

Clean Cabinets Thoroughly

Before painting, refacing or resurfacing your metal kitchen cabinets, take time to thoroughly clean them. Built-up grease, dirt and grime on cabinet surfaces will prevent paint or new laminates from properly adhering. Clean both the interior and exterior surfaces with a grease-cutting degreaser and a soft cloth. For stuck-on debris, use a mild scrubbing pad. Be sure to remove all residual cleaner by wiping down with a clean, damp cloth. Also, clean inside drawers and shelves. Remove all hardware and clean separately by soaking in a degreaser solution and scrubbing with a brush.

Proper cleaning may reveal your metal cabinets are in better shape than you thought. Or it will prepare them for accepting your makeover steps.

Improve Appearance With Paint

The easiest and most affordable way to makeover metal kitchen cabinets is by simply painting them. Painting metal cabinets allows you to change their color and hide any unsightly blemishes like scratches, chips or dents. Paint also provides protection from moisture damage.

When painting metal cabinets:

• Choose a high-quality enamel spray paint formulated for metal. Look for oil or alkyd-based paints. Water-based latex paints do not adhere as well to slick metal surfaces. Opt for a semi-gloss or satin sheen for an attractive finish.
• Remove doors, drawers and hardware and clean thoroughly before painting. Clean existing surfaces with TSP or other degreaser and sand lightly to rough up the finish. Wipe away any residue.
• Use painter’s tape and plastic sheeting to mask off areas. Spray paint outdoors if possible. Apply thin, even coats allowing proper drying time between coats. Expect to apply at least two to three coats for best coverage.
• Replace hardware using a clear silicone caulk to fill old holes. Allow paint to fully cure for two weeks before rehanging doors and drawers.

With good prep and application, spray paint can give old metal cabinets a brand new, refreshed look. Paint also allows you to add an accent color or create a two-tone look by painting cabinet frames a different color than doors.

Update With New Hardware

An easy upgrade for tired metal cabinets is replacing old hardware with new knobs, pulls, hinges and drawer slides. Hardware comes in a wide range of styles and finishes from classic to modern. Choose hardware that coordinates with your new cabinet color or adds metallic accents.

When selecting hardware:

• Measure existing hardware and note the placement of holes and screws. Select new hardware in the same size or prepare to fill and re-drill holes.
• Opt for solid metal hardware over plastic which can crack over time. Stainless steel, chrome, brass, bronze and black metal finishes are popular choices.
• For ease of opening, look for soft-close hinges and full extension drawer slides. Side mount drawer slides may allow for easier installation.
• Make sure knobs and pulls have a backplate and secure tightly with the proper length screws.

Take time to properly install new hardware straight and level. Upgrade your knobs, pulls, hinges and slides to give your metal cabinets a functional facelift.

Refresh With New Interior Fittings

Replacing interior fittings like shelves, drawers and racks can also help modernize metal kitchen cabinets. Many systems are now available including:

• Adjustable roll-out shelves that provide easier access to back areas of base cabinets.
• vertical drawer dividers and organizers for keeping contents neatly separated.
• Pull-out spice racks, tray dividers and tiered shelves optimize inside cabinet storage.
• Waste bin pull-outs allow convenient access to hidden trash receptacles.
• Revitalize old drawers with new cutlery inserts, drawer liners and dividers.

Installing new interior cabinet fittings can upgrade functionality and transform the look inside your existing metal cabinets.

Reface With New Doors and Drawer Fronts

For a more dramatic makeover, consider refacing your metal kitchen cabinets by replacing just the doors and drawer fronts. Refacing provides a facelift similar to brand new cabinets but at a lesser cost. The cabinet boxes remain intact while new doors, drawers and hardware modernize the look.

When refacing, first decide on a style – traditional or contemporary styling options are available. Then choose a door material like wood, stainless steel, laminate, glass or acrylic. Measure existing doors and fronts carefully to order replacements in the exact sizes needed. Work with an experienced kitchen cabinet company for best results.

The steps for properly refacing metal cabinets include:

• Removing old doors, fronts and hardware. Patch any holes or defects in sides or face frames.
• Preparing new replacement doors and drawer fronts. Drill holes for handles and pulls.
• Adding new hinges and drawer slides. Adjust to ensure proper alignment and closing.
• Installing doors, drawers and hardware using shims as needed to fine tune gaps.

Take proper measurements and time to install new facings to ensure an integrated look. Refacing provides a custom kitchen cabinet update at a portion of the cost.

Resurface With New Laminate or Veneer

For severely damaged metal cabinets with dents, rust or peeling finishes, resurfacing may be needed. Resurfacing involves applying new laminate, wood veneer, thermofoil or similar material over existing cabinet boxes. This requires more skill but covers flaws in poor condition cabinets.

To resurface metal cabinets:

• Remove doors, drawers, hardware and interiors. Remove any damaged surface material.
• Repair dents with hammer and dolly or filler. Sand to smooth and apply primer and adhesive.
• Cut new laminate or veneer to size allowing overhang. Carefully apply using a roller or veneer trimmer removing bubbles or bumps.
• Trim excess material at edges with a router or file. Reinstall hardware and interiors.

With proper preparation and application, new laminate or wood veneer can give dramatic renewed life to worn metal cabinets. The cost is also less than fully replacing old cabinetry.

How to Makeover Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Making over metal kitchen cabinets provides a cost-effective way to improve the look of your kitchen. Start by thoroughly cleaning cabinets and removing hardware. Then consider options:

• Paint cabinets using a formulated enamel spray paint for metal surfaces.
• Replace old hardware like knobs, pulls, hinges and slides with new versions in modern finishes.
• Install organizational fittings like roll outs, dividers and racks to upgrade cabinet interiors.
• Reface by replacing doors and drawer fronts for integrated new look.
• Resurface by applying new laminate or wood veneer over existing framework.

Any of these approaches can refresh the look of worn metal cabinets. With some effort, you can transform the style of your kitchen without the expense of full cabinet replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Makeovers for Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Making over metal kitchen cabinets may seem daunting. Here are answers to some common questions on updating metal kitchen cabinetry:

What kind of paint works best for a metal cabinet makeover?

An enamel spray paint formulated especially for metal surfaces works best. Look for oil or alkyd-based paints which adhere tightly. Always clean and lightly sand cabinets first. Apply at least 2-3 thin coats for a smooth factory-like finish.

What’s the easiest part of a metal cabinet makeover?

Replacing just the hardware is the simplest makeover option. Swapping out knobs, pulls, hinges and slides for new versions can give cabinets a fresh updated look. Carefully measure existing hardware first to find accurate replacements.

Should I keep my existing metal cabinet boxes when refacing?

In most cases, yes. Refacing maintains existing cabinet boxes which may be high-quality, sturdy metal. Removing them means extra work and materials to reframe for new doors and fronts. Exceptions include severe damage or corrosion warranting full cabinet replacement.

How do I match new doors and drawer fronts when refacing metal cabinets?

Work with a cabinet manufacturer to order replacements in the exact sizes and specifications needed. Provide accurate measurements of your existing doors and fronts to ensure proper integrated fit. Expert kitchen designers can ensure consistent styling is achieved.

Is there a way to makeover metal cabinets on a tight budget?

Yes, focus on simple upgrades like cleaning, painting and switching hardware if budget is limited. Use an all-in-one enamel spray paint kit for convenience. Install just a few organizational fittings in high use areas. Little updates can make a noticeable visual improvement.

Can I makeover metal cabinets myself or do I need to hire a contractor?

Many DIYers can handle basic cabinet makeovers like painting, hardware replacement and adding fittings. But extensive refacing or resurfacing may require an experienced contractor for best results. Consider your skills and the scope of the project. Some complex cabinet makeovers are best left to the professionals.

Will I increase my home value by making over metal kitchen cabinets?

Yes, any kitchen update provides a good return on investment. The national average for recouping money spent on a minor kitchen remodel is around 70%. Quality makeovers using durable materials and finishes will boost home appeal and sale price.

Making over worn metal kitchen cabinets is an effective way to improve the appearance and function of your kitchen without breaking the budget. With some planning and effort, you can complete this project and enjoy the results for years to come.

Conclusion

Making over metal kitchen cabinets presents a great opportunity to affordably upgrade the look of your kitchen. From simple paint touch ups to dramatic laminate resurfacing, many options exist to refresh dated metal cabinetry. Review your budget, time and skills to select the best makeover method. With cleaning, paint, new hardware, refacing or resurfacing you can transform the style of your kitchen without unnecessary expense and work. Your freshly updated metal cabinets will provide renewed life to your home for years of beauty and service.