How to Refinish a Metal Cabinet
Refinishing a metal cabinet can give an old, worn-out piece new life. With some cleaning, sanding, priming, and painting, you can transform the look of a metal cabinet and make it look like new again. Refinishing metal cabinets is a relatively straightforward DIY project that can be completed in a weekend. Follow these steps to learn how to refinish a metal cabinet.
Things You’ll Need
Before starting your metal cabinet refinishing project, make sure you have all the necessary supplies and tools on hand:
- Paint stripper or chemical cleaner to remove old paint and residue
- Sandpaper in various grits (80, 120, 220 grit recommended)
- Sanding block
- Tack cloths
- Drop cloths
- Painter’s tape
- Primer (either spray primer or liquid primer)
- Topcoat spray paint in desired color
- Paint sprayer or paint brushes
- Safety gear like gloves, goggles, mask
Pro Tips:
- Choose a paint sprayer for a smooth, professional-looking finish. Wagner and Graco brands have reliable options.
- Pick a water-based acrylic paint in a semi- or high-gloss sheen for easy cleanup and a durable finish. Oil-based paints may yellow over time.
- Ventilate workspace well and wear protective gear when using chemicals, sanding, and spraying paint.
Clean and Prep the Cabinet
Thorough cleaning and preparation ensures the new paint adheres properly and delivers the best results. Follow these steps:
Remove Doors, Drawers, and Hardware
Removing cabinet doors, drawers, and any attached hardware like knobs and pulls will allow you to refinish these pieces separately for easier access. Number pieces and hardware to keep organized.
Clean Surfaces
Use a degreaser or all-purpose cleaner to wipe down all surfaces and remove any built-up grease, dirt, or residue. Tackle baked-on grime with a plastic scraper.
Remove Old Paint
Assess if there are areas of chipping, cracking, or peeling paint. Use a paint stripper as directed to fully remove paint from these spots down to the bare metal. This helps the new paint adhere smoothly.
Sand Away Damage
Inspect for dents, scratches, or other surface damage. Use 80 grit sandpaper to sand out any imperfections, then follow with 120 and 220 grit to feather and smooth edges. Wipe with a tack cloth between sanding.
Prime Bare Spots
Spot prime any exposed bare metal with a quality metal primer. This provides a base layer for the new paint to stick to. Allow primer to fully dry per label instructions before painting.
Pro Tip: Wear gloves and safety goggles when handling paint stripper. Work in a well-ventilated area.
Refinish Cabinet Box
With the cabinet box fully prepped, you can now apply fresh paint for a durable and updated look:
Add Painter’s Tape
Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want painted, like cabinet interiors or countertops. Apply tape neatly and remove immediately after painting before it adheres.
Spray on Primer
For metal cabinet boxes, a spray primer works best to fully coat all sides. Shake the can vigorously and spray in sweeping motions about 8-10 inches from the surface. Allow to dry completely.
Apply Topcoat Paint
Once primed, spray on two to three thin coats of topcoat paint to build up coverage, allowing proper dry time between coats. Spray paint works best for full coverage on metal.
Inspect for Drips
Inspect after each coat and sand lightly with 220 grit sandpaper to smooth any drips or uneven texture before the next coat.
Remove Tape and Reattach Hardware
Once the final coat has dried 24 hours, carefully remove all painter’s tape. Reattach any doors, drawers, and hardware you removed earlier.
Refinish Doors and Drawers
Follow similar prep and painting steps to refinish detached cabinet doors and drawers:
Clean and Sand
Wash surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner and sand lightly with 220 grit sandpaper to rough up the surface. Tack cloth to remove any dust.
Prime Both Sides
Use a liquid primer and small foam roller to apply a coat to both sides, including all edges. Allow to dry fully.
Paint New Color
Apply two coats of topcoat paint in your preferred sheen using either a paint sprayer, small foam roller, or brush. Allow proper dry time between coats.
Replace Hardware
Once the paint has dried 24 hours, reattach any door pulls, knobs, or hinges removed earlier.
Refinishing Metal Cabinet Tips
Follow these additional tips to ensure you get smooth, professional results from your metal cabinet refinishing project:
- If working with an old, damaged finish, apply wood filler or spackle to holes or dents before priming and painting. Allow adequate dry time.
- For a distressed or vintage look, sand paint between coats. Apply dark wax to indentations.
- Consider using chalk paint for no-prep painting and an antiqued, worn finish. Always apply wax topcoat after.
- Paint the cabinet interior a lighter color to maximize visibility inside. Or try wallpaper or contact paper for easy application.
- Use gel stain to change the color of wood cabinet frames while keeping the wood grain visible. Top coat is required.
- When spraying paint, keep the can moving to avoid drips. Practice spray technique on cardboard first.
- Allow at least 24 hours dry time before reinstalling doors and drawers to prevent sticking.
With proper preparation and painting technique, you can give tired, old metal cabinets new life with a refreshed color and finish. Just take your time during each step, and you’ll achieve stunning results.
Frequently Asked Questions About Refinishing Metal Cabinets
Refinishing metal cabinets is a project many DIYers take on to revitalize their kitchens or bathrooms. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about the process:
How long does it take to refinish a metal cabinet?
The entire refinishing process can take 2-3 days from start to finish. It requires thorough cleaning and sanding, 1 day for primer and paint coats, and another day for the paint to fully cure before reassembly. Working in stages allows each step the proper drying time.
What kind of paint should be used?
A high-quality acrylic latex or enamel spray paint formulated for metal works best. Oil-based may yellow over time. Opt for semi- or high-gloss sheen for durability and easy cleaning. Primer helps paint adhere.
Is it necessary to remove doors and drawers before painting?
Yes, removing hardware allows for easier access to all cabinet surfaces during painting. Detached doors and drawers can be painted laying flat for optimal coverage. Reattach after paint has cured 24 hours.
How do you prep old metal cabinets for new paint?
Proper cleaning with a degreaser and sanding with 120-220 grit paper ensures paint will adhere well. Use a paint stripper to fully remove any chipping or peeling paint spots down to the bare metal.
Should I paint the cabinet interior?
Painting the interior a lighter color can help illuminate the contents. But for a quick update, try peel-and-stick wallpaper or contact paper to cover the back panel and shelves. Remove paper if later painting.
How do I get a smooth painted surface on metal?
Proper sanding smooths the surface for painting. Apply thin coats of spray primer and paint, sanding lightly between coats. Use a small foam roller or paintbrush for doors and drawers. Avoid over-brushing.
What sheen should I use to paint kitchen cabinets?
A semi-gloss or high-gloss sheen is best for durability in kitchens. Glossy finishes are super shiny but may show imperfections. Satin or matte is too low-sheen for cabinet use.
Refinishing metal cabinets takes some work but is very doable for DIYers. Following prep, priming, and painting best practices will yield beautiful results. Take your time with each stage, and you’ll have a refreshed kitchen or bathroom in a weekend.
Conclusion
Refinishing metal cabinets provides a quick and affordable way to update the look of your kitchen or bathroom. With some basic DIY skills and the right materials, you can strip down old paint and corrosion and give metal cabinets a durable and fresh painted finish. Focus on thorough prep work like cleaning, sanding, and priming before painting to ensure the new color adheres smoothly and evenly. And be sure to detach doors, drawers, and hardware prior to painting for easier access to all the nooks and crannies. Approach the project step-by-step, allowing adequate drying time between each stage. In a weekend’s time, you can have a transformed space with beautiful, refreshed cabinets.
