How to Refinish Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Refinishing metal kitchen cabinets can breathe new life into an outdated kitchen. With some preparation and effort, you can transform the look of your cabinets without the high cost of full replacement. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to refinish metal kitchen cabinets.

Materials Needed

• Paint stripper or solvent
• Putty knife
• Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit)
• Tack cloth
• Primer (oil-based or bonding primer)
• Paint (semi-gloss enamel recommended)
• Paintbrush
• Paint roller
• Drop cloths
• Painters tape
• Safety equipment (gloves, respirator mask, goggles)

Prep Work

Before starting to refinish, you need to thoroughly prep the cabinets. Proper prep work helps the new paint adhere better for a smooth, durable finish.

Clean the Cabinets

Use a degreaser or warm soapy water to clean the cabinet surfaces. This removes any existing oils, grease or dirt. Rinse and let dry fully.

Remove Existing Paint

You can use a paint stripper, solvent or sander to remove any existing paint or finishes.

For paint stripper – Apply a thick coat according to the product directions. Let it sit for the recommended time. Then scrape off the bubbled paint with a putty knife.

For sanding – Start with 120 grit sandpaper to strip off paint. Then smooth with 220 grit.

I recommend sanding for small surfaces and paint stripper for large flat panels. Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective equipment.

Repair Dents, Holes

Fill any dents, holes or imperfections with wood filler. Sand smooth once dry.

Clean Again

Give the cabinets another wipe down to remove any debris. Use a tack cloth to pick up any remaining dust.

Priming

Priming is a crucial step for proper paint adhesion. For metal cabinets, use an oil-based primer or bonding primer. Apply a coat to all cabinet surfaces – boxes, doors, frames & trim. Follow the product directions for dry time. Lightly sand again before painting if needed.

Painting

For the paint, I recommend a semi-gloss enamel since it is durable and easy to clean. Sharper whites and bright colors work best for a fresh modern look. Here are a few tips:

• Use a good quality nylon/polyester brush for the door frames and trim. Apply paint in long even strokes.
• For large flat surfaces like doors and the cabinet boxes, a small foam roller works best. Roll vertically first, then horizontally to ensure even coverage.
• Do thin, multiple coats allowing proper dry time between coats. 2-3 coats is usually needed for best coverage.
• Be patient – slow and steady yields the best results. Rushing can cause drips or unevenness.
• Paint the cabinet interior and doors first. Do the cabinet boxes last.
• Remove doors, drawers and hardware before painting. Paint separately then reattach.
• Use painter’s tape for clean lines if painting cabinet frames a different color than the boxes. Remove tape before the paint fully dries.
• Allow the paint to cure fully – usually 3-7 days. Avoid heavy use during this time.

Finishing Touches

Once cured, you can reinstall the doors, drawers, and hardware. Your cabinets will look brand new!

Some extra tips:

• Clean the cabinets with a degreaser every 1-2 years.
• For chips or scratches in the finish, sand and reapply paint as needed.
• Consider adding new modern hardware or pulls for additional style.

With some time and effort, you can completely transform the look of your kitchen for a fraction of the cost of new cabinets. Enjoy your updated space!

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of paint should I use to refinish metal cabinets?

For metal cabinets, I recommend a durable semi-gloss enamel paint. Oil or bonding primers also work best to help the paint adhere properly.

Can I spray paint my cabinets instead of brush painting?

Spray painting can work but requires more prep and finessing to avoid drips. Brush painting often yields a smoother finish for cabinets.

How long does it take to refinish cabinets?

With proper prep, expect the refinishing process to take 2-5 days depending on the size of your kitchen. The paint curing time needs to be factored in as well.

Should I remove the doors and drawers before painting cabinets?

Yes, you’ll get the best finished look if you remove the doors and drawers and paint them separately before reattaching them.

Can I refinish cabinets without sanding?

For the best adhesion, light sanding is needed to rough up the surface before priming and painting. Make sure to clean well after sanding.

How do I get a smooth finish when painting cabinets?

Use a good primer, apply thin coats of paint, allow proper drying time between coats, and sand lightly to smooth out brush marks for the best finish.

Conclusion

Refinishing metal kitchen cabinets allows you to transform the look of your kitchen without expensive replacement costs. With some elbow grease and a few key materials, you can change the color, hide dents or scratches, and give your cabinets a fresh new look. Prep work is crucial – be sure to clean, sand and prime the cabinets properly before painting. Allow adequate dry time for the paint to cure fully to achieve the most durable finish. Your updated cabinets will bring new life into your home and kitchen.