How to Refinish Vintage Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Refurbishing vintage metal kitchen cabinets can breathe new life into an outdated kitchen. With some elbow grease and TLC, you can restore the classic charm of metal cabinets while giving them a fresh, updated look. This comprehensive guide covers all the steps for DIY refinishing of vintage metal cabinets.

Assess the Cabinets and Create a Game Plan

Before you start any refinishing project, take time to thoroughly assess the current state of the cabinets and develop a plan of attack.

Take Note of the Cabinet’s Condition

Carefully inspect each cabinet inside and out. Make notes on the following:

• Type of Metal: Most vintage metal kitchen cabinets are made of steel, aluminum or even galvanized metal. Identifying the type of metal will impact the refinishing process.
• Paint or Finish: Determine if the cabinets are painted, have a baked enamel finish or just plain metal. This will determine the stripping and refinishing methods.
• Rust: Check for any rust spots or corroded areas, especially along seams and the bottom edges of cabinets. Addressing rust is crucial before applying new paint.
• Dents and Damage: Dents, scrapes and holes will need filler and smoothing before painting. Make note of any repairs needed.
• Hardware: Assess the hinges, latches, knobs and handles. Refinishing often includes updating old hardware.

Consider the Scope of the Project

Once you’ve thoroughly assessed cabinet condition, determine the scope of the refinishing project:

• All or Select Cabinets: For a full kitchen transformation, plan to refinish everything. But for a smaller budget, focus on visible areas.
• Paint Only or Complete Refinish: Painting alone may suffice. But for a deeper refresh, stripping to bare metal for priming and painting will yield better results.
• Replace or Refinish Hardware: Along with painting, swapping out old hardware for new can give cabinets a facelift.
• Add Accents: For extra flair, consider adding color blocking, antiquing or other accent finishes.

Gather the Right Supplies

Refinishing metal cabinets is a multi-step process. Be sure you have all the necessary supplies before starting:

• Paint stripper: For removing old paint or finishes
• Metal prep solutions: Such as phosphoric acid for cleaning and etching
• Primers: Adheres paint for the long term
• Paint: Durable cabinetry enamel in your color choice
• Sandpaper: An assortment from coarse to fine grit
• Rags & brushes: For applying products
• Filler: Water-based wood filler for minor repairs
• New hardware: Knobs, pulls, hinges and latches

Prep the Cabinets for Refinishing

With your game plan set, now comes the hands-on work of prepping the metal cabinets for a flawless refinished look.

Clear Countertops and Remove Doors

Clear countertops of appliances, sink accessories and other items. Remove all doors, drawers and shelves from the cabinets. Place door/drawer hardware together in a bag labeled for each cabinet.

Clean the Cabinets

Give cabinets a thorough cleaning before refinishing. Grease, dirt and grime will impede proper paint adhesion.

• Wash: Use a general household degreasing cleaner or tsp substitute on all surfaces. Rinse well.
• Scuff sand: Lightly sand surfaces to rough up the existing finish.
• Tack cloth: Wipe sanded cabinets with a tack cloth to remove dust.

Remove Existing Paint and Finish

Next, strip away old paint or finishes to reveal the bare metal for refinishing.

• Chemical stripper: Brush on paint stripper liberally. Allow to sit per product instructions. Scrape away softened paint with a putty knife.
• Repeat stripping: Stubborn finishes may require repeat applications of stripper.
• Sand away remnants: Use coarse 120-150 grit sandpaper to remove any remaining paint or finish.
• Clean: Wipe sanded cabinets with a clean damp rag to remove all stripper residue.

Tip: Work in sections for the stripping process rather than tackling all cabinets at once.

Repair Dents, Holes and Seams

Inspect cabinets for any dents, seam gaps or small holes that may need filling:

• Mix filler: Prepare water-based wood filler per package directions. Quick-drying types work best.
• Fill imperfections: Use a putty knife to fill any dents, gouges and holes flush with the surface.
• Reinforce seams: Fill any separation along cabinet seams. Allow filler to dry completely.
• Sand smooth: Lightly sand to smooth filled areas.

Address Rust Spots

Leaving any rust untreated will only lead to continued corrosion under new paint. Properly prep any rusty areas:

• Clean: Wipe rust spots with a deglossing cleaner or solution of TSP and water.
• Sand: Lightly scuff sand to remove rust and get down to bare metal.
• Treat: Apply a rust converter product. Allow to fully cure per instructions.

Tip: For smaller spots, sand them to bare shiny metal and spot prime just that area with rust-inhibiting primer.

Remove Hardware and Patch Holes

Take off hinges, latches, knobs and any other hardware:

• Label hardware: To make reinstallation easier, place hardware for each cabinet together and label.
• Fill holes: Use wood filler in any hardware screw holes. Allow to dry and sand smooth.

Clean and Etch Bare Metal

With all old paint removed and repairs made, properly prepare the bare metal for new priming and painting:

• Degrease: Wipe all surfaces with a degreasing cleanser like TSP substitute to remove any oily residue. Rinse clean.
• Etch: Use a phosphoric acid solution to etch the metal. This helps the new paint bind better. Rinse thoroughly and let dry.

Prime Cabinets for Painting

Priming is one of the most vital steps for successful refinished metal cabinets. Use the right primer for your cabinet metal type:

Steel Cabinets

For steel cabinets, a rust-inhibiting primer is best to prevent future corrosion:

• Rust-inhibiting primer: Apply two coats per manufacturer instructions, allowing proper dry time between coats.
• Sand lightly: Use 220 grit sandpaper between coats to ensure adhesion.

Aluminum Cabinets

Etching aluminum provides “tooth” for primer bonding:

• Phosphoric acid: Use a phosphoric acid solution to etch. Rinse thoroughly.
• Primer for aluminum: Apply two coats of etching primer letting dry fully between coats.

Galvanized Metal Cabinets

Special prep is needed for galvanized metal:

• Clean: Use TSP substitute to properly clean and degrease cabinets.
• Remove gloss: Lightly scuff sand to dull the finish.
• Galvanized metal primer: Apply two coats following all label directions.

Paint Cabinets in Desired Color

Now comes the fun part – choosing a new color and painting cabinets!

Select Cabinet Paint

For long-lasting color, use a durable cabinetry enamel:

• Oil or water-based: Both give a smooth, hard finish that cleans easily.
• Satin or semi-gloss: These sheens resist moisture, grease and wear.
• Color options: Choose a bold color for impact or soft neutral for versatility.

Prepare for Painting

Follow these tips for a flawless painted finish:

• Lightly sand: Smooth any rough primer areas with fine 220-grit paper.
• Clean surface: Wipe cabinets with a tack cloth to remove dust.
• Set up workspace: Spread drop cloths in a dust-free, well ventilated area. Work in sections.
• Follow directions: Carefully read all label instructions before starting.

Apply Paint

Use a quality brush or sprayer to apply the cabinet paint:

• Brush painting: Use a premium brushed rated for enamels. Apply a smooth coat in the direction of the metal grain.
• Spray painting: Spray systems provide the most seamless finish but require masking off nearby surfaces.
• Two coats minimum: Allow thorough drying between coats per paint instructions. Lightly sand between coats for adhesion.
• Inspect for missed spots: Look over cabinets to ensure all surfaces are covered. Touch up if needed.

Allow Proper Curing Time

Oil-based enamel paints take longer to fully cure than latex or water-based:

• Oil-based: Allow 7-14 days curing time for hardest finish. Avoid cleaning or replacing cabinet contents during this period.
• Water-based: Dry and ready for use in 2-3 days. Review individual paint instructions.

Tip: Running range hoods or fans, warming cabinets with heat guns or adding dehumidifiers will help speed paint drying and curing.

Replace Hardware for Finishing Touch

Installing new hardware is the finishing touch to bring your refinished metal cabinets completely up to date:

Select Hardware

Take the cabinet style and your budget into account when choosing hardware:

• Square shank vs decorative: Square shank knobs and pulls are most affordable. Pricier decorative hardware makes more of a style statement.
• Finish options: Brushed nickel, oil rubbed bronze and matte black work well in most kitchens. Or match existing faucets and fixtures.
• Coordinated design: For a cohesive look, opt for suite hardware with matching knobs, pulls, hinges and handles.

Install New Hardware

Follow best practices when installing the hardware:

• Reference hardware map: Return hardware to original positions based on your labeling system.
• Pre-drill holes: Use a bit slightly smaller than the fastener to avoid splitting wood.
• Secure tightly: Snug down screws evenly so hardware stays straight and firmly in place.

Take a step back and admire your sparkling, refreshed metal cabinets!

Maintaining Your Refinished Metal Cabinets

Put some routine care measures in place to help your redesigned metal cabinets retain their restored beauty:

• Gentle cleaners: Use only mild soap and water to clean. Avoid harsh abrasives.
• Dry spills quickly: Promptly wipe up any water or liquid spills to avoid potential paint damage.
• Check for wear: Periodically inspect cabinets for any chips or scratches in the paint and touch up as needed.
• Consider protective finishes: Adding a layer of paste wax can add extra protection from moisture and grease.

With proper prep and painting techniques, your vintage metal cabinets are sure to provide many more years of service with their updated look!

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have some questions about refinishing metal kitchen cabinets? These common FAQs provide helpful answers:

Should I remove the doors and drawers before painting?

Yes, you should always remove cabinet doors, drawers and hardware prior to refinishing. This allows you to fully access all cabinet surfaces and achieve the most professional looking results.

What is the best primer for painting metal cabinets?

For steel cabinets, use a rust-inhibiting primer. Etching primer works best for aluminum, while galvanized metal requires a specific galvanized primer. Always read labels and follow individual primer directions.

How long does it take cabinet paint to fully cure?

Oil-based cabinet enamels take up to two weeks to fully harden and cure while water-based types cure in just 2-3 days. Avoid cleaning or replacing cabinet contents until paint has fully cured.

What sheen of cabinet paint is most durable?

Satin and semi-gloss paint finishes are best for cabinets as they are most resistant to moisture, grease, and everyday wear and tear. Matte finishes show more visible signs of use over time.

Should I sand metal cabinets before painting?

Lightly scuff sanding with 120-150 grit sandpaper is recommended before priming and painting. This helps surfaces grip the new paint for maximum adhesion and durability.

How can I speed up paint drying time?

To accelerate drying, run ventilation fans, use portable heaters or dehumidifiers, and maintain proper airflow in the work area. Always follow individual paint instructions as well.

Refinishing metal kitchen cabinets brings big rewards for DIYers on a budget. With the right prep and painting techniques, you can revive worn metal cabinets with a fresh new look and add years more enjoyment to your vintage kitchen.