How to Refinish Metal Storage Cabinets

Meta description: A detailed guide on refinishing metal storage cabinets, including step-by-step instructions for sanding, priming, painting, and sealing metal cabinets for a smooth, protected finish.

Introduction

Metal storage cabinets are a versatile and durable choice for many households and garages. Over time, exposure to moisture, chemicals, and regular wear and tear can cause metal cabinet finishes to fade, peel, or rust. Refinishing metal storage cabinets restores their appearance and protects the underlying metal from further damage.

With some basic DIY skills and supplies, refinishing metal cabinets is an achievable weekend project. The process involves thoroughly cleaning the cabinets, sanding to remove old paint and rust, applying primer and paint, and sealing with a clear coat for a polished look.

This guide will walk through the necessary prep work, painting steps, and finish coat application to refresh worn metal storage cabinets. With these tips, you can give old metal cabinets a facelift with a shiny, durable new finish.

Overview of the Refinishing Process

Refinishing metal storage cabinets is a multi-step process, but following the proper techniques will lead to beautiful results. The general refinishing process includes:

• Cleaning and degreasing the cabinets
• Sanding to abrade surfaces for paint adhesion
• Applying rust converter to rusted areas (if needed)
• Priming all metal surfaces
• Painting with a durable enamel spray paint
• Applying clear sealer for a smooth, glossy finish

Proper preparation is crucial for the new paint to adhere correctly. Rust and loose paint must be fully removed for primers and paints to bond to the metal. Working in a well-ventilated area and allowing adequate dry time between steps will help achieve an even, lasting finish.

The following sections will detail the supplies needed and walk through the full refinishing process from start to finish. With some diligent prep work and patience during painting, it is possible to revitalize old metal storage cabinets.

Supplies Needed

Refinishing metal cabinets requires some specific supplies. Here is a list of the painting materials needed:

• Cleaning solutions: Dish soap, degreaser, TSP substitute
• Sandpaper: Coarse 80-100 grit, fine 220 grit
• Rust converter (if needed)
• Painters tape
• Tarp or drop cloths
• Paintbrushes
• Paint tray
• Primer – Rust-inhibiting or metal primer
• Spray paint – Gloss or enamel finish
• Clear topcoat – Polyurethane, clear enamel, or epoxy

You will also need common supplies like cloths, buckets, paint thinner, gloves, eye protection, and ventilators or respirator masks. Drop cloths, painter’s tape, and ventilators help protect surrounding surfaces from splatters and fumes.

Purchase metal-specific primers and finishes for best adhesion. Choose spray paint formulas for a smooth, consistent coat on metal. For exposed outdoor cabinets, select exterior-grade paints and clear coats.

Gather all materials beforehand so refinishing can proceed efficiently from start to finish.

Cleaning and Prepping the Cabinets

Thorough cleaning and sanding are imperative first steps to prep metal cabinets for new paint. Here is the process for pre-paint cleaning and prep:

Cleaning

1. Remove cabinet doors and hardware (handles, hinges). Set hardware aside for later reattachment.
2. Wash cabinet surfaces with a degreasing cleaner or dish soap and water solution. Scrub to remove grime and grease buildup.
3. Use a TSP substitute cleaner and scrub brush to etch the metal surfaces. This helps the paint bond.
4. Rinse cabinets thoroughly with clean water. Allow to fully dry.

Sanding

5. Sand cabinets manually or with a power sander. Use coarse 80-100 grit sandpaper to remove rust, loose paint, and glossy surfaces.
6. Sand again with 220 grit paper to smooth surfaces. Remove all residual paint chips, flakes, and dust.
7. Wipe sanded cabinets with a tack cloth. This picks up remaining dust before priming.

Taking time to properly clean and scuff cabinet surfaces will allow the primer and paint to adhere better for a long-lasting finish.

Applying Rust Converter

For metal cabinets with significant rusting, use a rust converter before priming. Rust converters chemically convert rust into an inert, paintable surface.

1. Scrub rusty areas with a wire brush to remove flaky rust.
2. Apply rust converter liquid according to package directions. One coat is usually sufficient.
3. Let the converter cure for the recommended time, usually 24-48 hours. The rust will transform to a gray/black color.
4. Lightly sand treated areas to roughen surfaces for priming.

Rust converters fix moderate rust damage and prevent future rust. Treat badly rusted cabinets before priming.

Priming the Cabinets

Priming provides an adhesive base layer for paints. Use these tips for properly priming metal cabinets:

• Use metal-specific primer: Rust-inhibiting or etching primers made for metal adhere best.
• Apply with a brush or sprayer in thin, even coats.
• Coat all cabinet surfaces – sides, fronts, backs, and bases. Get into cracks and crevices.
• Allow 2-4 hours of dry time between coats. Lightly sand glossy areas before recoating.
• Apply at least 2-3 coats until surfaces are fully sealed. Primer hides old colors.
• Allow the final coat to cure overnight before spraying paint.

Spray Painting the Cabinets

Enamel spray paint offers a smooth, durable finish on metal. Follow these guidelines for spray painting success:

• Use exterior-grade enamel spray paint for outdoor cabinets. Opt for satin, semi-gloss, or gloss sheens.
• Shake the can vigorously for 2-3 minutes before spraying. This mixes the paint pigments well.
• Apply painter’s tape around hinges, handles, and edges for a neat finish.
• Spray paint in thin, even coats from about 8 inches away.Overlap strokes slightly.
• Let paint dry 2-4 hours between coats. Add additional coats for full coverage and color depth.
• Remove painter’s tape immediately after the final coat before the paint dries.
• Leave the cabinets to cure fully for 24-48 hours before applying a protective topcoat.

Applying a Clear Topcoat

A polyurethane, epoxy, or clear enamel topcoat provides a polished finish and added protection:

• Lightly sand painted cabinets with fine (220 grit) sandpaper. This smooths the paint and helps the topcoat adhere.
• Wipe away all dust with a tack cloth.
• Apply 2-3 thin, even coats of the clear topcoat with a brush or sprayer.
• Allow at least 2-4 hours of drying time between coats.
• Let the final coat cure fully before reinstalling the cabinet doors and hardware.

The clear topcoat seals the paint and creates a smooth, glossy finish. Abrasive-resistant polyurethane works well for cabinets in garages and workshops.

Reinstalling Doors and Hardware

After the refinished cabinets are completely dry:

• Screw cabinet door hinges back into place.
• Reattach handles and latches with new hardware screws if needed.
• Adjust or tighten hinges so doors align properly and open/close smoothly.
• Attach any drawer slides, shelves, or racking back into the refreshed cabinets.
• Move cabinets back into position and reload contents.

The cabinets are now revitalized and ready to store your belongings securely.

Tips for a Flawless Refinished Finish

Follow these tips for best results refinishing metal storage cabinets:

• Fully clean and dry cabinets before starting. Remove all grease, dirt, and dust.
• Properly prep rusted areas before priming. Use a rust converter or metal etch primer.
• Apply multiple thin primer and paint coats for complete coverage and proper adhesion.
• Use high quality primers and paints specified for metal. Enamel spray paint works well.
• Follow all manufacturer drying times – rushing between coats can ruin the finish.
• Sand lightly between coats for enhanced bonding and a smooth finish.
• Work in a dust-free area to avoid contaminants sticking to tacky paint.
• Finish with a clear sealer like polyurethane for added protection and sheen.
• Be patient! Allow proper curing times for each layer. Rushing the process can ruin the finish.

FAQs About Refinishing Metal Storage Cabinets

How long does it take to refinish metal cabinets?

The entire refinishing process takes 2-4 days from start to finish. Exact timing depends on drying times for primers, paints, and clear coats. Rushing the process can ruin the finish, so allow adequate curing time between steps.

What kind of paint should be used?

Enamel spray paints formulated especially for metal provide the most durable, protective finish. Opt for satin, semi-gloss, or gloss sheens for easy cleaning.

Do the cabinets need to be primed first?

Yes, priming is a must before painting metal. Primers etch and seal the surface so paints adhere properly. Use a metal-specific primer like etching or rust-inhibiting types.

How does rust converter work?

Rust converters contain chemicals that react with rust and convert it into an inert, paintable surface. One coat of converter transforms rust so primers can adhere.

Should cabinets be cleaned with TSP before painting?

Yes, using TSP (trisodium phosphate) or a TSP substitute cleans and etches the metal so paint bonds better. Grease and dirt must be removed for paint to properly stick.

How should cabinets be prepped for painting?

Metal cabinets should be thoroughly cleaned, lightly sanded, and primed before painting. Remove all rust, loose paint, dirt, and oils for the best results. Scuff sanding helps the paint grip.

What sheen should the topcoat be?

A gloss or semi-gloss polyurethane, epoxy, or clear enamel topcoat provides a smooth, shiny, durable finish. Satin or matte topcoats work for less shine.

How soon can cabinets be used after refinishing?

Allow 24-48 hours of cure time for the topcoat before reinstalling doors and hardware. Let the paint fully harden before loading cabinets up with storage items.

Conclusion

Refinishing worn metal storage cabinets restores them to like-new condition with some TLC and DIY skills. Following the steps for proper cleaning, sanding, priming, painting, and sealing results in cabinets that look freshly installed.

The process does take some time and diligence to complete correctly. Rushing through steps or ignoring proper dry times can ruin the renewed finish. Have patience as each layer fully cures before adding the next.

With closely adhered primer, quality spray paint, and a protective clear coat, well-prepped metal cabinets gain a durable, attractive new finish. The cabinets gain a facelift along with extended life safeguarding your belongings. With a weekend’s work, it’s possible to revamp tired metal cabinets for like-new utility and style.