Refinishing an old metal file cabinet can give it a fresh, updated look while saving money compared to buying a new cabinet. With some cleaning, sanding, priming, and paint, you can easily redo a metal file cabinet and customize it to match your home or office décor. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the steps needed to redo a metal file cabinet from start to finish.

Introduction

Metal file cabinets have been office staples for decades, providing durable and secure storage for important files and documents. While metal cabinets are built to last, the paint and finish can start to show signs of wear over time with nicks, scratches, fading, and rust. Redoing the finish restores the cabinet’s appearance so it looks like new again. With a couple coats of spray paint and new hardware, you can give an old metal cabinet a modern facelift for a fraction of the cost of replacing it.

Benefits of refinishing a metal file cabinet:

• Cost effective – Much less expensive than purchasing a new cabinet
• Customizable – Choose any color to match your space
• Eco-friendly – Reduces waste by repurposing instead of replacing
• Quick project – Can be completed over a weekend
• Improved appearance – Looks updated and refreshed

Refinishing a file cabinet is also a relatively easy DIY project for beginners. The process involves cleaning, lightly sanding, priming, painting, and reinstalling the hardware. With the right preparation and materials, anyone can redo a metal cabinet with professional-looking results. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process from start to finish.

Supplies Needed

Before starting your metal file cabinet makeover, you’ll need to gather the following supplies:

• Paint stripper or citrus-based cleaner – To remove any existing paint or finish
• Sandpaper – Both coarse (80-100 grit) and fine (220 grit) sheets for sanding
• Tack cloth – For removing dust between sanding sessions
• Painter’s tape – To mask off areas you don’t want painted
• Drop cloths – For protecting floors and furniture from paint splatters
• Paint primer – Specifically formulated for metal surfaces
• Spray paint – In your color(s) of choice, both primer and enamel paint
• New hardware – Cabinet pulls, handles, lock, slide rails, etc.

You’ll also need standard painting supplies like paintbrushes, paint trays, rags, etc. For safety gear, be sure to use gloves, eye protection, and a respirator mask when sanding or spraying paint.

Step 1 – Empty the Cabinet

Before starting any refinishing work, you’ll need to completely empty out the file cabinet. Remove all files, folders, interior shelves, sliding rails, and hanging file frames. It’s also a good opportunity to thoroughly clean inside the drawers and cabinet. Be sure to also remove all hardware including handles, locks, label holders, or anything attached to the exterior.

Store all of the contents and hardware together so they can be easily reinstalled after painting. Having an empty cabinet will allow you to work on all surfaces, make repairs if needed, and provides the freedom to spray paint without worrying about overspray landing on items inside.

Step 2 – Clean the Cabinet

With the cabinet emptied, now you can thoroughly clean the interior and exterior to prepare it for painting. First vacuum up any dirt, dust, cobwebs, and debris. For an even deeper clean, use a degreaser and rinse well with clean water.

Pay special attention to cleaning drawer tracks and wheels so they slide smoothly after reassembly. Remove any stubborn sticky residue with Goo Gone or another adhesive remover.

Once clean, let the file cabinet fully dry before moving onto sanding the surfaces. Proper cleaning is crucial for getting paint to properly adhere.

Step 3 – Remove Existing Finish

If your metal file cabinet currently has a clear gloss, varnish, or laminate coating, this should be removed prior to painting. Paint adhesion is greatly improved on bare metal versus finishes or paints that are already present.

To remove the existing finish:

• Use a paint stripper like Citristrip that is formulated for metal and wooden furniture. Apply a thick layer with a paintbrush and let it sit for 15-30 minutes. The finish will start to blister and bubble up.
• Scrub with a stiff bristle metal brush to remove the softened finish.
• Wipe clean with mineral spirits and rags.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
• Repeat stripping if any thick areas of finish remain.

The cabinet should now be bare clean metal ready for sanding. Paint stripper allows the finish to be removed without too much heavy sanding.

Step 4 – Sand the Cabinet

Once stripped down to bare metal, lightly sanding the filing cabinet provides “tooth” for the primer and paint to adhere properly. Use coarse 80-100 grit sandpaper to smooth any rough spots, remove leftover finish residue, and scuff the surface.

Be sure to sand:

• All exterior faces and edges
• Inside drawer compartments
• Interior shelves and sliding rails
• Doors, depressions, and crevices

Sand in the direction of the metal grain to prevent deep swirling scratch marks. Thoroughly sand inside corners and tight spots. Don’t press extremely hard when sanding – the goal is to rough up and degloss the surface, not remove metal.

Finish by wiping with a tack cloth to remove all dust particles before priming.

Step 5 – Repair Dents, Holes or Rust Spots

Inspect the filing cabinet closely and make any necessary repairs before painting:

• Dents – Use a hammer and block of wood to gently tap out dents from the exterior. Rub with fine sandpaper to smooth.
• Holes – Fill small holes with metal filler compound and allow to fully dry. Sand flush after.
• Rust – Scrub areas of light rust buildup with steel wool or sandpaper. Spot treat harsh rust with a rust converter primer before painting.
• Missing hardware holes – Fill unused holes and screw slots with caulk or wood putty. Let dry completely then sand smooth.

Properly prepping any damaged areas prevents imperfections from showing through the new paint job. Take time to carefully examine and repair as needed.

Step 6 – Mask Off Surfaces

Before priming or spraying paint, use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want to get painted. Cover all rubber drawer gaskets so they remain their original color. Tape around hardware holes and the base of the cabinet if keeping it the original color.

Masking takes a bit of time but prevents paint from getting onto surfaces best left unpainted. Carefully apply tape and press firmly for the best paint lines. Liquid masking fluid can also be used for small detailing and working around hinges.

Step 7 – Apply Primer

Now the metal file cabinet is prepped and ready for a fresh coat of primer. Priming is a must before painting, especially for metal, to help the paint properly adhere. Use a metal primer spray paint formulated for maximum corrosion resistance and adhesion.

To apply primer:

• Shake the can vigorously for at least one minute and periodically during use.
• Hold 10-12 inches away and apply light, even coats using a side to side sweeping motion.
• Spray all cabinet exterior faces first, then interior surfaces, doors, and drawers.
• Let dry 20-30 minutes between coats. Apply at least 2-3 thin coats for best coverage.
• Check for any drips or missed spots and touch up.
• Allow the final coat to dry overnight before painting.

Primer preps the metal for painting, helps prevent future rust, and provides a uniform base for the topcoat color. Take your time to fully prime all sides and surfaces.

Step 8 – Paint the Cabinet

Once your primer has fully cured, you can now apply the topcoat paint color. For metal filing cabinets, gloss or semi-gloss enamel spray paints work best for a smooth, durable finish:

Painting Tips:

• Lightly sand primer with 220 grit sandpaper to rough up the surface and improve paint adhesion.
• Clean with a tack cloth before painting.
• Shake spray paint vigorously for 1 minute. Hold 10-12 inches away, using light coats.
• Spray using a side to side, overlapping motion until fully covered.
• Paint the cabinet exterior first, then interior surfaces.
• Let dry at least 2 hours between coats. Add 2-3 thin coats for best coverage and even color.
• Remove masking tape immediately after the final coat before the paint fully dries.
• Allow the paint to cure 24-48 hours before reinstalling drawers.

Be patient, take your time, and apply multiple thin coats for a smooth factory-like finish.

Step 9 – Paint or Stain Cabinet Interior

If desired, the cabinet interior can be painted a different color than the exterior for added style. Or go for an attractive wood grain look by using stain and polyurethane instead of paint.

For paint, use the same process as the exterior – primer, sanding, and gloss enamel paint. Allow extra drying time for interior paint before reinstalling drawers.

For stain, apply wood conditioner first for evenly absorbed color. Use gel stain and wipe on in thin layers, then apply one or two coats of clear polyurethane for protection.

Step 10 – Reinstall Hardware

Once fully dry, your freshly painted filing cabinet is ready for reassembly. Carefully slide drawers back in place and check their alignment. Now is also the time to install any new hardware you wish to update its look – new handles, label holders, locks, etc. Here are some tips for reinstalling cabinet hardware:

• Make sure the paint is fully cured first – at least 24 hours.
• Use a pencil to mark new hardware hole locations. Predrill holes.
• For existing hardware holes, insert a little caulk into each one before reinstalling. Allow to dry before fastening.
• Attach handles and label holders using new matching screws.
• Install locks, hasp plates, and sliding rails. Make sure drawers slide smoothly.
• Take care not to overtighten screws into fresh paint.

Replacing outdated hardware completes the transformation and gives your cabinet a modern twist.

Step 11 – Add Protective Clear Coat (Optional)

For added protection on your freshly painted metal filing cabinet, apply 1-2 coats of clear polyurethane. This clear topcoat helps protect the finish from chips, scratches, fingerprints, and other wear and tear.

Choose a water-based polyurethane spray and apply just as you would paint – working in thin, even layers. Clear coat also gives the paint a nice glossy sheen. Let the final coat cure fully about 3 days before use.

Tips for Achieving a Professional DIY Finish

Follow these tips and tricks used by expert DIYers to get a flawless, professional-looking finish on your homemade file cabinet makeover:

• Clean thoroughly – Remove all grease, grime, dust and debris from the metal before starting.
• Sand well – Lightly scuff all surfaces to rough up the metal and ensure paint adhesion.
• Apply primer – Use a quality metal primer specifically formulated for maximum corrosion protection.
• Take your time prepping – Proper prep work leads to better results.
• Work in thin coats – Multiple thin paint and primer coats look more professional than thick heavy coats.
• Spray paint – Paint sprayers provide the most consistent, smooth finish.
• Let paint fully cure – Give adequate drying time between coats and before reassembly.
• Remove tape promptly – Pull off masking tape immediately after painting before the paint dries.
• Install new hardware – Updated handles and label holders provide a finished look.

Salon-Quality Results on a DIY Budget

Refinishing worn metal filing cabinets is a budget-friendly way to revitalize your office or workspace. With some time and elbow grease, you can skip the high cost of buying new cabinets and take matters into your own hands.

Follow this comprehensive step-by-step guide to redo a metal file cabinet like a pro. The project takes some work – but the end results are well worth it. Just look at the difference…from dull and dated to fresh and modern with a cool customized color. The satisfaction of giving new life to old furniture is very rewarding.

Your newly redone filing cabinet will not only look fabulous but also provide many more years of reliable service. So grab some paint and get started on making over your metal cabinets today!

FAQs About Refinishing Metal File Cabinets

Refinishing a metal file cabinet yourself can seem daunting to DIY novices. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about redoing a metal file cabinet.

Is it worth refinishing an old metal filing cabinet?

Absolutely! Refinishing is an affordable way to update the look of a filing cabinet without the cost of buying new. With some effort, you can make an old cabinet look like new for a fraction of replacement cost. It also keeps furniture out of landfills.

What kind of paint should be used?

For best results, use enamel spray paints formulated specifically for metal. Primer and topcoat paint that resists rust and corrosion works best. Semi-gloss or high-gloss provide a smooth, durable finish.

How long does it take to redo a filing cabinet?

Plan on the project taking 1-3 days depending on drying times. The hands-on labor time is 8-12 hours typically. Working in stages allows proper drying between steps. Rushing the process can ruin the paint finish.

What about chemicals like paint stripper?

Harsh chemical strippers effectively remove old paint and finish from metal. But they require proper safety precautions. Wear gloves, work outside, and consider citrus-based strippers as a less toxic option. Proper ventilation is key.

Can you paint over rust?

Any rust should be removed by sanding before painting. For small spots, a rust converter primer can be used to prevent future rust and allow painting. Severe rust may require refinishing the damaged area with metal filler compound prior to painting.

How do you get a smooth factory-like finish?

The key is proper sanding, priming, applying thin multiple coats, allowing proper drying time between coats, and avoiding drips or runs. Finishing with a sprayed clear coat helps provide extra protection and sheen.

What hardware needs to be removed before painting?

Remove handles, label holders, locks, slide rails, and any other attached hardware prior to starting. This allows full access for cleaning, repairs, and painting. Hardware can be reinstalled after the paint is fully cured.

Should the file cabinet interior be painted too?

The interior can be painted or stained to match or contrast the exterior color. Allow extra drying time for interior paint before reinstalling drawers. Stain provides an attractive woodgrain look if desired.

Conclusion

Redoing old metal file cabinets not only saves money compared to replacement costs but also allows you to customize with fun, trendy colors. While refinishing requires some work, the steps are straightforward enough for DIYers to tackle. With proper materials, time, and preparation, you can give new life to tired old office furniture.

Following the techniques outlined above, you can achieve professional-looking results and learn useful refinishing skills in the process. The next time you come across an old metal file cabinet, don’t send it to the curb. Give this makeover project a try and let your creativity transform it into a stylish, functional piece.