Refinishing metal filing cabinets can breathe new life into old office furniture and make them look like new again. With some cleaning, sanding, priming, and painting, you can transform dull and dated cabinets into stylish storage solutions. Follow this comprehensive guide to successfully refinish metal filing cabinets.

Supplies Needed to Refinish Metal Filing Cabinets

Refinishing filing cabinets is an easy do-it-yourself project with the right supplies. Here is what you will need:

• Paint stripper or remover – To remove any existing paint or residue on the cabinets
• Cleaning solutions – Such as degreaser, TSP substitute, and/or dish soap to thoroughly clean the cabinets prior to refinishing
• Sandpaper – Coarse 80-120 grit to strip the cabinets down to bare metal, and 220-400 grit sandpaper for smoothing
• Rags and scrub pads – For applying cleaners, stripping chemicals, and wiping away residue
• Metal primer – For maximum paint adhesion. Look for primer specifically made for metal surfaces
• Paintbrushes – Opt for high-quality brushes meant for fine finish work
• Spray paint – For full coverage. Get spray paint formulated for metal for best results
• Painters tape – For masking off areas you don’t want painted
• Drop cloths – To protect floors and furniture from paint splatters
• Cleaning solvents – Such as mineral spirits for cleaning brushes between coats
• Rags – For applying solvents and wiping up messes
• Sanding block – Helps evenly sand flat surfaces

Gather all supplies prior to starting the project for maximum efficiency.

Prepping Metal Filing Cabinets for Painting

Proper prep work is crucial for getting a smooth, professional looking finished product. Follow these steps:

1. Remove Contents and Hardware

Empty the filing cabinets completely and remove all hardware such as handles, locks, and drawer glides. This gets them out of the way for refinishing and prevents damage.

2. Clean Surfaces

Give the filing cabinets a thorough cleaning prior to sanding and painting. Use degreaser to remove any oily residue. Scrub with a TSP substitute cleaner to etch the surface and remove grime. Rinse with clean water and let dry fully.

3. Remove Existing Paint and Rust

Use a paint stripping solution or remover to strip away any existing paint or clear coats on the metal filing cabinets. Apply a thick coat according to the product directions. Let it sit for the recommended time before scraping away the softened paint with a putty knife or wire brush.

For spot treating rust, use a rust remover solution or sand the affected area with coarse grit sandpaper. Remove all rust prior to priming and painting for best results.

4. Sand Surfaces

Once stripped down to bare metal, scuff sand the entire surface with 80-120 grit sandpaper. This helps the primer and paint adhere properly. Use a sanding block for large flat surfaces and by hand for contoured areas.

Vacuum up all sanding dust when finished. Wipe down with a tack cloth to remove any remaining dust residue.

Priming Metal Filing Cabinets

After a thorough prep job, you’re ready to apply metal primer.

1. Apply Primer

Use a high-quality metal primer, applying either by brush or by sprayer. Work in thin, even coats and avoid runs or drips. Follow all label instructions for application, dry time, and surface prep needed between coats.

For maximum corrosion resistance, look for primer labeled for rust inhibition. Two coats are recommended to fully seal and protect the metal.

2. Address Defects in Primer

Examine the primer coat closely once dry. If there are any drips, runs, or unevenness, sand those areas smooth before applying the topcoat.

Use painter’s putty to fill any holes, scratches or defects exposed by the primer. Let patching putty fully cure before sanding flush.

3. Sand Primer

Once the primer has fully cured, lightly sand the surface using 400 grit sandpaper. This smooths the primer coat and creates a surface profile to help the topcoat adhere.

Thoroughly vacuum and tack cloth the surface when done to remove all dust.

Painting Metal Filing Cabinets

Follow these steps for flawless paint coverage on your primed filing cabinets:

1. Mask Off Areas

Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want painted. This includes cabinet interiors, the edges of doors and drawers, and any hardware holes. Remove tape immediately after painting before the paint has fully dried.

2. Apply Top Coat Paint

For metal filing cabinets, choose a top coat paint formulated especially for metal. Enamel, epoxy, and appliance paints work well. Opt for satin or semi-gloss sheens for easy cleaning.

As with the primer, apply paint in thin, even coats according to the manufacturer directions to prevent drips and runs. Certain paint types require specifically timed intervals between coats.

Spray painting generally provides the smoothest, most seamless finish on filing cabinets. Use sweeping side-to-side motions with slight overlap, holding the can 10-12 inches from the surface. If brush painting, use high quality fine bristle brushes and maintain a wet edge as you work.

3. Cure Paint Fully

Allow sufficient drying time between coats as instructed on the paint can labels. Drying time varies widely between paint formulations. Once fully painted, let the finish cure completely for several days prior to refastening drawer pulls and putting the cabinets back into service. This prevents sticking and paint damage.

4. Install Hardware

Reinstall any door pulls, locks, or drawer glides once the paint has fully cured. Check that doors and drawers operate smoothly. Now your filing cabinets have a fresh new look and are ready to be loaded up and put back into use.

Tips for Achieving a Flawless Finish

Follow these pro tips as you refinish filing cabinets for superior results:

• Always read and follow all label directions for prep, application, dry time, and recoat intervals for each product used.
• Use high quality applicators and tools suited for fine finish work, such as natural bristle trim brushes.
• Maintain cleanliness throughout the process. Prevent dust buildup between coats.
• Apply finishes in dust-free environments without air currents to minimize dust landing in the finish.
• Work slowly and methodically. Rushing leads to drips and errors.
• Apply paint and primers in light, even coats. Heavier coats can sag and run.
• Allow sufficient drying time between coats.
• Lightly sand between coats for maximum adhesion.
• Finish drawers separately from the cabinets for easier handling.
• Work in diffuse daylight lighting to easily see small defects and dust nibs.
• Finish the cabinet backs and interiors prior to the outside surfaces.

With attention to detail and proper materials, you can achieve stunning results refinishing old metal filing cabinets. The time invested is well worth it for years of renewed service.

Frequently Asked Questions About Refinishing Metal Filing Cabinets

What type of paint should be used to refinish metal filing cabinets?

The best paints for refinishing metal filing cabinets are those formulated specifically for metal surfaces, such as enamel, appliance epoxy, and rust-inhibiting primers and paints. Choose satin or semi-gloss finishes for durability and easy cleaning.

What grit sandpaper is best for preparing metal filing cabinets?

Start with coarse 80-120 grit sandpaper to strip the cabinets down to bare metal, removing rust and old paint. Finish up with 220-400 grit to smooth and prep for primer and paint.

Should I use a liquid or foam paint stripper?

Either works well. Foam clings to vertical surfaces better than liquid strippers. But liquid stripping gels allow you to soak horizontal surfaces thoroughly. Use an appropriate product for the task.

How long does it take to fully refinish a metal filing cabinet?

Plan on devoting 2-3 days minimum per filing cabinet to allow sufficient drying time between steps. The process includes cleaning, stripping, sanding, priming, painting, and re-installing hardware.

Can I use a brush instead of spray paint?

Yes, though spray painting typically delivers the smoothest, most seamless finish. Use high quality fine bristle brushes and maintain a wet edge when brushing. Work slowly to prevent drips and brush marks.

Should I remove the drawers before refinishing the cabinets?

Yes, removing the drawers allows for easier access to all cabinet surfaces for refinishing. Drawers can be refinished separately and then reinstalled once the paint is cured.

Refinishing metal filing cabinets requires proper supplies, preparation, paint selection, and techniques for a durable, professional looking finish. But with some time and care, the results are well worth it. Follow the steps in this guide to restore old filing cabinets affordably.

Conclusion

Refinishing metal filing cabinets is a budget-friendly way to upgrade well-built but dated office furniture. With some simple cleaning, sanding, priming, and paint, you can make worn filing cabinets look brand new again. The key steps include:

• Thoroughly cleaning and stripping the original finish
• Sanding to create an optimal surface profile for painting
• Applying specialty metal primer for maximum adhesion and corrosion resistance
• Spray painting using thin, even coats of durable enamel, epoxy, or appliance paint
• Allowing each coat to fully cure before adding another
• Reattaching doors, handles, and drawer glides once fully cured

With quality materials and proper preparation, metal filing cabinets can be restored for a fraction of the cost of buying new ones. Refinishing also allows you to customize the color and finish to match your office décor. With some time and care invested, old metal filing cabinets can be given new life with a fresh modern look.