How to Redo Metal Cabinets

Introduction

Metal cabinets can be found in many homes and provide a sleek, modern look for kitchens, bathrooms, and other spaces. However, over time, the finish on metal cabinets can start to show wear and look outdated. Redoing metal cabinets is an easy weekend project that can give your space a quick facelift without the high cost of new cabinetry. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to redo metal cabinets and update their look.

Gather Your Supplies

Before starting any cabinet makeover project, you’ll need to gather the right supplies. Here’s what you’ll need to redo metal cabinets:

• Paint – For metal cabinets, an oil-based primer and enamel paint work best. Choose a satin or semi-gloss finish for easy cleaning.
• Paintbrushes – Angled sash brushes are ideal for cutting in and painting cabinet frames. Foam rollers or brushes work well for covering large flat surfaces.
• Sandpaper – 220-grit and 400-grit sandpaper will smooth surfaces between coats.
• Painters Tape – Mask off areas you don’t want painted.
• Drop cloths – Protect floors and countertops from paint drips.
• Paint tray – To hold and roll out paint neatly.
• Mineral spirits – For cleaning oil-based paint from brushes.
• Rags – For wiping down surfaces before painting.

Prep the Cabinets

Proper prep work ensures your painted metal cabinets will have a smooth, professional finish. Follow these steps:

• Remove doors and hardware – Detach all doors, drawers, and hardware using a screwdriver. Set aside all hardware in a labeled bag.
• Clean surfaces – Use a degreasing cleaner or mineral spirits to remove grease and grime from cabinet surfaces and doors.
• Sand lightly – Use 220-grit sandpaper to rough up shiny cabinet surfaces for better paint adhesion.
• Wipe clean – Wipe all surfaces with a tack cloth to remove dust before painting.
• Repair damage – Fill any holes, scratches or dents with wood filler and let dry completely. Sand smooth.
• Mask off – Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want painted, like countertops.

Prime and Paint the Cabinets

With your prep work complete, you’re ready to apply primer and paint for a flawless painted finish:

Prime Cabinets

• Pour oil-based primer into a paint tray and roll a smooth coat onto all cabinet surfaces using a foam roller.
• Work in thin coats, allowing primer to dry completely between coats according to manufacturer’s directions.
• Be sure to get full coverage on the edges and undersides of cabinet doors and frames.
• Allow primer to dry overnight before sanding.

Paint Cabinets

• Lightly sand primed surfaces with 400-grit sandpaper to ensure a smooth finish.
• Apply two coats of oil-based enamel cabinet paint using a foam brush or roller.
• Work in thin, even coats, allowing paint to dry completely between coats.
• Use an angled sash brush to carefully cut-in along edges for a clean painted line.
• Allow final coat to cure fully, typically 24-48 hours.

Reinstall Doors and Hardware

The final step is to put your cabinets back together:

• Clean hardware and reinstall on original cabinet locations using a screwdriver.
• Reattach doors and drawers. Make any hinge adjustments needed for proper alignment.
• Remove painter’s tape and protective drop cloths.
• Allow a week for paint to fully cure before putting cabinets back into use.

Tips for Long-Lasting Results

Follow these tips and your freshly painted metal cabinets will maintain their beautiful, updated look for years to come:

• Prior to painting, lightly scuff glossy surfaces with sandpaper for maximum paint adhesion.
• Always use oil-based primer and paint formulated especially for metal surfaces.
• Allow sufficient dry time between coats as directed by manufacturer.
• Clean paint brushes promptly after use with mineral spirits.
• For a durable finish, opt for satin or semi-gloss sheens rather than high-gloss.
• Avoid slamming cabinet doors or placing hot items directly on painted surfaces.

With some simple supplies, effort, and TLC, you can breathe new life into outdated metal cabinets. Just follow these steps for redo metal cabinets like a pro. Enjoy your renewed kitchen or bath space!

Frequently Asked Questions About Redoing Metal Cabinets

How long does it take to redo metal cabinets?

Plan on devoting a full weekend to redo the average kitchen’s worth of metal cabinets. Allow a day for taking doors down, cleaning, sanding, and priming. Painting may take 1-2 more days depending on total cabinet area and dry times between coats.

What kind of paint should be used?

An oil-based primer followed by oil-based enamel cabinet paint will provide the most durable finish on metal. Latex paints don’t adhere as well.

Do I need to sand metal cabinets before painting?

Lightly sanding metal cabinets will rough up the surface for optimal paint adhesion. Use 220-grit sandpaper and focus on any glossy areas.

Can I spray paint metal cabinets?

Yes, spray painting with an oil-based enamel will provide a smooth factory-like finish. Hang doors outdoors to spray paint.

How do I get a smooth painted finish?

Proper prep work and applying paint in thin, even coats is key. Sand lightly between coats for a seamless look. Allow full dry time between coats.

How soon can I use cabinets after painting?

Allow at least 24-48 hours for paint to cure before reinstalling doors and hardware. Give paint a week to fully harden before regular use of cabinets.

Conclusion

Updating dated metal cabinets with a fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to improve your kitchen or bath. With the right tools and some elbow grease, you can redo your metal cabinets in a weekend. Just be sure to properly prepare surfaces, apply oil-based primer and paint in smooth coats, and give paint adequate time to cure. Follow this guide for stunning, long-lasting results.