Refinishing metal cabinets can completely transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom. With some simple preparation, supplies, and techniques, you can give old, worn metal cabinets a fresh new finish. Refinishing metal cabinets is an affordable way to update the style and color of your cabinets without the high cost of a full replacement.

Introduction

Metal cabinets were very popular in many homes from the 1930s through the 1980s. While sturdy and long-lasting, the finish on metal cabinets can show wear over time. Discoloration, scratches, stains, and general dinginess can make metal cabinets look dated and worn. Refinishing is a great way to restore metal cabinets to a like-new condition.

Refinishing metal cabinets involves removing the existing finish, preparing the surface, applying primer, and painting the cabinets with a durable finish coat. With some time and effort, you can completely transform the look of metal cabinets for a fraction of the cost of new cabinetry. The end result will be kitchen or bathroom cabinets that look fresh, updated, and customized to your style.

Benefits of Refinishing Metal Cabinets

There are many great reasons to consider refinishing metal cabinets:

• Cost savings – The cost of new kitchen or bathroom cabinets can be tens of thousands of dollars. Refinishing can refresh your space for less than $500.
• Customization – With refinishing, you can change the cabinet color and style to suit your taste.
• Quick update – Refinishing cabinets is a relatively quick and simple DIY project for a big impact.
• Environmentally friendly – Refinishing reuses existing cabinets rather than discarding for new materials.
• Maintain useful cabinets – If the cabinets are structurally sound, refinishing allows you to keep useful storage space.
• Enhance home value – Refinished cabinets can help boost resale value by increasing the appeal of your kitchen or bath.

As long as the original cabinets are well-built and sturdy, refinishing is a great option for extending their life in an eco-friendly way.

Preparing to Refinish Metal Cabinets

Refinishing cabinets is not necessarily a difficult job, but proper preparation and an organized approach will ensure the best results.

Supplies Needed

Here are the basic supplies you will need:

• Paint stripper – To remove old finish
• Putty knife or scraper – To strip away paint/finish
• Sandpaper – Various grits to smooth and prep the surface
• Tack cloths – For cleaning away dust between sanding
• Primer – Adheres paint for a smooth finish
• Paint – Durable finish enamel for cabinets
• Brushes and rollers – For applying primer and paint
• Painter’s tape – For masking off areas
• Drop cloths – To protect floors and surfaces

Safety gear like gloves and eye protection are also a must when using chemical strippers.

Cleaning Cabinets

Before starting the refinishing process, thoroughly clean inside and out. Remove all shelves, drawers, and hardware. Clean all surfaces with a degreasing cleaner or TSP substitute to eliminate grease and oils.

Pay special attention to the interior of drawers and cabinet boxes where grime tends to accumulate. A clean surface will help the new paint adhere evenly and smoothly.

Remove Doors and Hardware

Detach all doors, drawers, and hardware so you can work on each piece individually. Set the hardware aside in a organized way so you can easily reattach later.

Number the back of each door and drawer to match the corresponding cabinet frame – this makes rehanging much easier. Use painter’s tape to label other parts if needed.

Ventilation and Drop Cloths

Work in a well-ventilated area when refinishing cabinets. Open windows and use fans to circulate fumes and dust away. Cover nearby surfaces with plastic drop cloths to protect from drips and spills.

Stripping the Finish

The first big step is removing the existing finish or paint down the bare metal. Chemical paint stripper is the easiest approach for DIYers.

Warning: Paint strippers contain very harsh chemicals – be sure to take all proper safety precautions. Work in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves, eye protection, and old clothes.

Here is the basic process for using paint stripper:

1. Apply a thick coat of paint stripper with a putty knife or brush. Let it sit for the time specified on the label so it can fully dissolve the finish.
2. Use a putty knife or scraper to slowly peel away the liquefied finish. Scrape at an angle parallel to the surface to avoid gouging the metal.
3. Repeat the process until you get down to the bare metal. Focus on any remaining glossy areas where finish needs further stripping.
4. Apply steel wool or a sanding sponge to completely scuff the bare metal. This helps the primer adhere properly.
5. Use mineral spirits to wipe each surface clean of any stripper residue. Let dry fully.

Stripping can be time consuming and messy – make sure to use plenty of paint stripper and let it fully saturate to make the scraping process easier. Thorough stripping is essential for the new finish to adhere properly.

Preparing and Priming the Metal

Once stripped down to bare metal, the cabinets need some prep work before priming:

Sanding

Lightly sand all surfaces with 120-150 grit sandpaper to smooth any roughness. Then wipe clean with a tack cloth.

Filling Holes

Fill any chips, holes, or small dents with a metal filler compound. Let dry completely and sand smooth.

Rust Removal

If there are areas of light surface rust, remove them by scrubbing with steel wool or a wire brush. Wipe clean and apply a rust converter primer to stabilize.

Priming

Using a high-quality metal primer formulated for cabinets, apply an even coat to all cabinet parts – boxes, doors, frames, drawers, and shelves. Allow proper dry time before the final finish coat.

Tip: For a super smooth finish, you can lightly sand the primer coat with 220 grit before topcoating.

Topcoating Cabinets

The keys for a flawless painted finish are using quality enamel paint and applying with good technique:

Paint Selection

Choose a top-quality alkyd or enamel cabinet paint. These dry hard and durable. Select satin or semi-gloss sheen for easy cleaning.

Brushwork and Rolling

Use high-quality synthetic bristle brushes and short nap paint rollers. Apply in thin, even coats – avoid excessive brushing or rolling which can create bubbles.

Dry Time

Allow proper dry time between coats according to manufacturer guidelines. This creates a cohesive film without entrapped solvents.

Curing

Let paint fully cure for 1-2 weeks after final coat before reinstalling hardware and use. Curing allows it to reach maximum hardness and durability.

Take your time with the finish coats to achieve a smooth and flawless painted surface. Between 2-3 coats are usually needed for full coverage and an even sheen.

Reinstalling Doors, Shelves, and Hardware

Once fully cured, you can start to reassemble the newly refinished cabinets:

• Reattach doors and drawers using a high strength epoxy if the original screw holes are compromised.
• Adjust doors and realign hinges so doors hang straight and edges seal properly.
• Replace shelves and drawer slides. Test that drawers operate smoothly.
• Reinstall cabinet hardware using factory holes whenever possible.
• Attach any new hardware such as knobs, pulls, or handles where desired.

Take care during reinstallation to avoid damage to the fresh paint. Fill any screw holes and touch up paint as needed.

Maintaining Refinished Metal Cabinets

With proper care and maintenance, your refinished metal cabinets should maintain their freshly updated look for years:

• Allow paint to fully cure before regular use – at least 7 days.
• Avoid slamming doors or overloading shelves.
• Keep cabinets dry to prevent moisture damage; promptly wipe up spills.
• Clean with mild soap and soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Apply a fresh coat of cabinet enamel if finish becomes worn or dulled over time.
• Use cutting boards, coasters, pan liners to protect from scratches and cuts.

Your revitalized metal cabinets will provide renewed storage and style with just simple care and maintenance. Enjoy the satisfaction of saving money and extending the life of your cabinets through refinishing.

Supplies Checklist for Refinishing Metal Cabinets

To ensure you have everything needed for a smooth refinishing process, use this checklist before starting:

Stripping Supplies

• [ ] Paint stripper (1-2 quarts)
• [ ] Putty knives and scrapers
• [ ] Plastic spreaders or brushes
• [ ] Steel wool or sanding sponges
• [ ] Mineral spirits for cleaning
• [ ] Painters tape for masking off areas
• [ ] Plastic drop cloths

Safety Gear

• [ ] Chemical-resistant gloves
• [ ] Safety goggles
• [ ] Dust mask or respirator

Prep Supplies

• [ ] Sandpaper (120, 150, 220 grit)
• [ ] Tack cloths
• [ ] Metal filler compound
• [ ] Rust converter/primer (if needed)

Painting Supplies

• [ ] Metal primer (1-2 quarts)
• [ ] Cabinet paint (1-2 quarts)
• [ ] Synthetic bristle brushes
• [ ] Short nap paint rollers
• [ ] Small foam rollers for doors

Reassembly Items

• [ ] New cabinet hardware/handles
• [ ] High-strength epoxy
• [ ] Wood filler (if needed)

Other Recommendations

• Drop cloths
• Painters tape
• Paint tray, bucket, or roller pan
• Rags, paper towels
• Plastic bags for storage

With all supplies ready beforehand, you can refinish your metal cabinets efficiently from start to finish. Check each item off the list so nothing is overlooked. Proper materials and preparation are key for achieving the best results.

Step-By-Step Process to Refinish Metal Cabinets

Follow these key steps to transform the look of your outdated metal cabinets through refinishing:

1. Remove and Prepare Cabinets

• Take cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware off.
• Clean all surfaces thoroughly.
• Label parts for easy reassembly later.
• Set up workspace with ventilation and drop cloths.

2. Strip Existing Finish

• Spread paint stripper liberally over surfaces.
• Let stripper soak in according to directions.
• Scrape away liquefied finish with putty knife or scraper.
• Repeat stripping steps until bare metal shows.
• Scrub with steel wool or sandpaper to roughen metal.
• Clean residue with mineral spirits.

3. Prep and Prime the Metal

• Lightly sand to smooth any roughness.
• Fill dents and holes with metal filler compound.
• Sand and then wipe clean with a tack cloth.
• Apply 1-2 coats of metal primer.

4. Apply Finish Coats

• Lightly sand primer before painting (optional).
• Use high quality enamel cabinet paint.
• Apply in thin, even coats with good technique.
• Allow proper dry time between coats.

5. Cure and Reassemble

• Let paint cure fully 1-2 weeks before use.
• Reattach doors and hardware.
• Touch up paint and fill holes as needed.
• Enjoy your refreshed cabinets!

Careful prep, stripping, priming, painting, and reassembly are the keys to successfully refinishing metal cabinets. Take your time and don’t rush the process – the results will be well worth it!

Types of Paint to Use for Refinishing Metal Cabinets

Choosing the right type of paint is important to achieve a durable and beautiful finish when refinishing metal cabinets:

Alkyd Enamel Paint

Alkyd enamel is the top choice for refinishing metal cabinets. It dries to a hard, glossy finish that resists chipping, scratching, and staining. Alkyd enamels adhere very well to metal. Popular brand options include:

• Benjamin Moore Impervex – High quality alkyd enamel for trim and cabinets.
• Sherwin-Williams ProClassic – Durable interior alkyd enamel paint.
• Pratt & Lambert 38 – Professional-grade metal and cabinet enamel.

Acrylic Latex Paint

For those wanting to avoid solvent-based alkyds, water-based acrylic latex paint can also be a good option. Look for cabinet-grade acrylics formulated for metal and hard use, such as:

• Benjamin Moore Advance – Waterborne alkyd-acrylic hybrid.
• Farrow & Ball Estate Emulsion – Durable acrylic-based cabinet paint.
• PPG Breakthrough – Water-based acrylic paint for cabinets.

While alkyd enamels are preferred, today’s best cabinet-grade acrylics offer good durability and adhesion if applied properly.

Paints to Avoid

Steer clear of these types of paint for refinishing cabinets:

• Standard wall paints – Too soft and prone to scuffing.
• Flat, matte, or satin finishes – More scratchable than glossy finishes.
• Oil-based porch and floor enamel – Too stiff for cabinets; difficult touch-ups.
• Standard latex trim paints – Don’t withstand cleaning chemicals and moisture.

Stick with top-quality cabinet enamels or durable multi-surface acrylics. Never use cheap paints meant for walls or outdoor surfaces. Investing in the right paint ensures a finish that will last.

How to Achieve Different Color Finishes

A fresh coat of paint is the perfect chance to update your cabinets with a new color. Here are some recommended techniques to achieve popular color finishes when refinishing metal cabinets:

White Cabinets

A clean white finish opens up small spaces and reflects light beautifully. For bright white cabinets:

• Prime first with a white metal primer for full coverage.
• Use a high-gloss white cabinet enamel for a fresh, bright look.
• Apply multiple thin coats for an evenly opaque finish.

Woodgrain Finish

Specialty glazing techniques can create a natural woodgrain look.

• Start with a base coat of brown, tan, or other wood tone.
• Apply a woodgrain glazing product in a dry-brush technique.
• While still wet, use a rag to rub off glaze in direction of wood grain.
• Seal with satin clear coat for protection.

Distressed Finish

A timeworn, distressed finish adds cottage charm and dimension.

• After primer/paint, rub edges and corners with sandpaper or steel wool to expose metal underneath.
• Dab on Vaseline with a cloth, then wipe off for a worn appearance.
• Apply glaze into corners or hardware cutouts for shadow lines.

Bold Colors

Metal cabinet boxes can handle darker, richer colors than wood can support.

• Prime first in white or gray for a smooth topcoat.
• Opt for semi-gloss paints for deeper hues – they highlight color saturation.
• Use a foam roller for a smooth finish application.

With the right products and techniques, you can refinish metal cabinets in virtually any color from ultra-bright white to bold blacks and blues.

Tips for Achieving a Flawless Painted Finish

Follow these best practices for achieving a smooth, professional-looking painted finish when refinishing metal cabinets:

Start with thorough prep – Remove doors, clean surfaces, fill imperfections, sand, and apply quality primer. Proper prep prevents flaws in the final finish.

Pay attention to dry times – Let primer and paint coats dry and cure fully between applying additional coats. Rushing the process can ruin the finish.

Sand between coats – Lightly sanding with fine 220 grit sandpaper between coats creates an ultra-smooth finish.

Maintain a wet edge -Brush out from wet painted areas into dry areas to prevent lap marks as you go. Work in sections.

Use high-quality application tools – Invest in good brushes, rollers, and paint trays. Don’t cut corners with cheap applicators.

Work in a dust-free area – Prevent particles from landing in the fresh paint. Set up drop cloths and use tack cloths.

Apply in thin coats – Heavily loaded paint will sag and drip. Patiently build up the finish with multiple thin coats.

Detail the final coat – Carefully brush and roll the final coat, tidying up any sloppy edges from previous coats.

Inspect under good lighting – Strong overhead light will help reveal any imperfections that need touch up.

With care and patience, you can achieve a furniture-quality painted finish that makes your kitchen or bath feel brand new.

Refinishing Interior vs. Exterior Metal Cabinets

The process for refinishing metal cabinets is largely the same whether they are interior kitchen or bathroom cabinets or exterior shop, laundry room, or garage cabinets. However, there are a few differences in materials and techniques:

Prep Work

• Exterior cabinet surfaces require more thorough cleaning to remove grime, oils, rust, etc. before priming.
• Use deglosser on shiny surfaces before priming for better adhesion.
• Fill dents, scrapes, and rust spots with appropriate metal filler products.

Primer

• Use exterior metal primers containing rust inhibitors on exterior cabinets.
• Opt for spray-can primer for