How to Paint Over Metal Cabinets

Painting over metal cabinets can completely transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom. With a fresh coat of paint, outdated metal cabinets can be given new life. Painting metal cabinets is also a budget-friendly way to refresh the style without the high cost of replacing the cabinets entirely. But there are some important steps to take to ensure the paint adheres properly and provides long-lasting results. Here is a detailed guide on how to successfully paint over metal cabinets.

Clean the Cabinets Thoroughly

The most important preparatory step when painting metal cabinets is to thoroughly clean the surfaces. Any residual grease, dirt, dust or debris left on the cabinets will prevent the paint from properly adhering. It’s crucial to remove any oils by washing the cabinet surfaces with a degreasing agent. Here are the steps for properly cleaning metal cabinets before painting:

• Remove all cabinet doors, drawers and hardware (handles, hinges etc). Set the hardware aside in a plastic bag so it does not get misplaced.
• Wash the cabinet frames, doors, undersides and drawers with a solution of trisodium phosphate (TSP) and water. TSP is designed specifically for removing grease, oils and grime from surfaces to be painted.
• Use a plastic bristle brush and wash every surface of the cabinets with the TSP solution. Pay close attention to the grooves, corners and edges where grease build-up tends to accumulate.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow the cabinets to fully dry.
• Use a lint-free tack cloth to wipe down all surfaces to remove any remaining dust or debris.

Thorough cleaning helps the paint bond securely to the metal for a smooth, lasting finish.

Sand the Cabinets

For the paint to properly adhere, the surface needs to have some texture or “tooth” for it to grip. Sanding the cabinets provides this roughness for the paint to hold onto.

Here are the steps for sanding metal cabinets:

• Use 220-grit sandpaper to scuff the surfaces of the doors, frames, undersides and drawers. Caution: only scuff the surfaces enough to rough them up slightly, be careful not to overly scratch or gouge the metal.
• Use a sanding block for the flat surfaces. For grooves and edges, wrap the sandpaper around a piece of scrap wood.
• Wipe away all sanding residue with a dry cloth.
• Apply a coat of primer to fill in any minor scratches. Allow primer to fully dry.
• Lightly sand again with 400-grit sandpaper to smooth everything out.
• Wipe clean with a tack cloth.

Proper sanding and priming ensures maximum paint adhesion.

Prime the Cabinets

Applying a primer coat is one of the most vital steps when painting metal cabinets. Primer bonds tightly to the metal surface and provides a base layer that the paint can adhere to. Use a high-quality primer specifically made for metal. Here are some tips for priming metal cabinets:

• For oil-based paint, use an oil-based metal primer. For latex paint, use a water-based primer for metal. Using the proper primer for your type of paint is critical.
• Apply the primer evenly using a high-quality roller with a smooth nap. A mini foam roller works well for cabinets. Apply in thin, even coats.
• Be sure to prime all surfaces – fronts, backs, undersides, grooves and edges. Primer provides a protective coating that helps prevent rust.
• Allow the primer coat to fully dry as directed on the product labeling, usually 24 hours. Then lightly sand again with fine (400 grit) sandpaper.
• Apply a second coat of primer for maximum coverage and protection. Let the second coat dry fully.
• Clean surfaces with a tack cloth before painting.

Primer is the key to successful, long-lasting paint on metal cabinets. Don’t skip this important step!

Use the Right Type of Paint

For painting metal cabinetry, the recommended paint is an oil-based “alkyd” enamel paint or a high-quality acrylic latex enamel paint. Avoid straight latex paint, as it does not bond well to slick metal surfaces without a primer.

Here are tips on choosing the right cabinet paint:

• For oil-based paint, use a gloss, semi-gloss or satin alkyd enamel. Alkyd paints cure hard and provide a durable finish.
• For latex acrylic, select a cabinet-grade enamel paint with a satin, semi-gloss or gloss sheen. The acrylic resins allow it to bond properly.
• Opt for satin or semi-gloss finishes rather than flat for kitchens and baths. Glossier paints are more resistant to moisture, grease and dirt.
• Purchase a high-quality brand designed for metal cabinets. Avoid cheap paints that have less adhesion and durability.

Stick with oil-based or cabinet-grade acrylic enamel paints to get the toughest, longest lasting finish on metal cabinets.

Paint the Cabinets Properly

With the right prep work and materials, you’re ready to paint. Follow these tips for successfully brushing or rolling cabinet paint:

Brushing Paint

• Use a high-quality nylon/polyester brush made for oil-based or latex enamel paints. The stiffer bristles provide smooth strokes.
• Load the brush evenly and tap off excess paint. Apply a thin, even layer of paint with the grain of the metal.
• Work methodically and pay attention to edges and corners. Paint all sides of doors and drawers.
• Allow the paint to dry fully according to manufacturer’s directions before applying a second coat.
• Lightly sand and then apply the final coat. Brushing leaves slight brush marks, so apply multiple thin coats for a smooth finish.

Rolling Paint

• For rolling cabinet paint, use a smooth, high-density foam mini roller. It provides an ultra-smooth finish.
• Pour paint into a roller pan and roll an even layer onto the roller. Roll off excess paint before applying to the cabinet.
• Use long, steady, straight strokes and maintain a wet edge as you paint. Work top to bottom.
• Roll the paint out evenly and avoid thick coats. Two thin coats provide better coverage than one thick one.
• Allow the first coat to dry fully before applying the final coat. Lightly sand in between coats.

Take your time with the painting process for best results. Proper brush and roller techniques prevent drips, sags and uneven coverage.

Let the Paint Cure

Oil-based and latex enamel cabinet paints take 1-2 weeks to fully cure and harden. During this time the paint surface remains slightly soft and susceptible to damage. Avoid cleaning or replacing shelves and hardware until the paint has cured.

Here are some tips for allowing your painted cabinets to properly cure:

• Allow the manufacturer’s recommended drying time between coats (usually 24 hours).
• Let the final coat dry for 5-7 days before light use of the cabinets.
• Wait a full 7-14 days before reinstalling shelves, drawers, hardware and dishes.
• Avoid scrubbing or cleaning with anything abrasive during the curing period.
• Keep cabinet doors open to allow good airflow while curing.
• Run exhaust fans, avoid steam and moisture near curing cabinets.
• Use care when opening and closing doors to avoid sticking while the paint is soft.

Taking precautions while the new paint cures helps it harden properly and retain its durable, fresh finish for years to come.

Common Questions

Can I paint over stained cabinets without removing the existing stain?

Yes, stained cabinets can be painted over without stripping off the wood stain, but proper prep is important. Make sure to scuff-sand thoroughly to rough up the existing finish. Wipe away dust. Apply 1-2 coats of oil-based primer to block stains from showing through. Once primed, finish with your choice of paint.

What sheen is best for painting over metal cabinets?

A satin or semi-gloss sheen is generally recommended for cabinets, as it resists moisture, grease and frequent cleaning. Semi-gloss provides a classic cabinet look. Satin is slightly less shiny for a more subtle sheen. Gloss finishes can work, but some find them too reflective. Use flat or matte finishes sparingly.

Should I remove the cabinet doors and drawers before painting?

Yes, removing the cabinet hardware allows you to fully paint the door fronts, edges, undersides and backs. It also prevents paint from getting onto the hardware and hinges. Lay doors flat on saw horses to paint. Label the hardware so you know where to replace it.

How do I clean oil-based or latex cabinet paint from my brush or roller?

Cleaning enamel paint while it’s still wet will ruin the brush or roller. Let them fully dry first with paint residue. Then use the appropriate solvent – mineral spirits for oil-based, water for latex. Soak in solvent, then scrub clean with brush cleaner and rinse. Repeat if needed.

Can I use a paint sprayer instead of brushing?

Paint sprayers allow painting cabinets quickly and evenly. But they require prep masking off nearby walls and countertops. Also learn proper sprayer technique to prevent uneven coverage and drips. Brushing may take longer, but avoids overspray and provides greater control.

Conclusion

Transforming dated, worn metal cabinets by painting them yourself can make a huge visual impact in your kitchen or bath for very little cost. With the right materials and proper techniques, even metal cabinetry can be updated to look fresh and new again. Preparing the surfaces thoroughly so the paint properly adheres is the most important step. Apply an oil-based or acrylic enamel paint in thin, even coats. Avoid cleaning or replacing hardware until the paint has fully cured. With some time and care taken during the painting process, your once-dreary metal cabinets can have an attractive, durable finish that makes your room look completely revived.