How to Refinish Youngstown Metal Cabinets

Refinishing metal cabinets can breathe new life into an outdated kitchen. Youngstown metal cabinets were very popular from the 1950s through the 1970s, and many homeowners still have these durable metal cabinets in their kitchens. While the cabinets are sturdy, the finish can become dull, scratched, or discolored over time. Refinishing Youngstown metal cabinets allows you to give them an updated, fresh look without the cost of full cabinet replacement. Follow these steps to refinish your Youngstown metal cabinets.

Clean and Prepare the Cabinets

Thoroughly clean the cabinet interiors and exteriors to remove grease and grime before starting the refinishing process. Use a degreaser or all-purpose cleaner to cut through the dirt and oils. Scrub all surfaces with a nylon scrub pad, soft brush, or sponge. Rinse well and let the cabinets dry completely.

Remove the doors, drawers, and hardware (handles and hinges). This allows you to refinish the cabinet frames and doors/drawers separately for easier handling. Number each door and drawer to ensure proper re-installation later. Use a screwdriver to detach hinges and handles. Set all hardware aside in a labeled container for safekeeping.

Sand the cabinets lightly with 120-150 grit sandpaper to scuff up the surface. This helps the new paint adhere properly. Focus on any areas with scratches, flakes, or rust spots. Wipe away sanding dust with a tack cloth. Fill any holes, dents, or cracks with wood filler and let dry completely per package directions.

Choose a Finish Option

You have a few options when refinishing Youngstown metal cabinets:

• Paint: Offers endless color options. Use a high-quality metal primer and latex or oil-based metal paint.
• Enamel: Provides a glossy, durable finish. Use an enamel primer and finish coat.
• Powder coating: Applies an electrostatically charged powder with heat to create a uniform finish. Can be done professionally or with a home kit.

Consider the existing cabinet condition and your preferences when deciding on a finish. Latex paint works well for cabinets in good shape, while enamel or powder coating are best for worn cabinets needing maximum protection.

Apply Primer

Priming is a crucial first step to ensure the new finish adheres properly. It also helps conceal scratches and creates a uniform surface for the topcoat.

For painting, use a bonding metal primer like Rust-Oleum Professional Metal Primer. Apply 2-3 thin, even coats per can directions, allowing proper drying time between coats.

For enamel or powder coating, choose a related metal primer to ensure compatibility with the finish coat. Follow all label instructions carefully.

Hang doors on a makeshift rack or lay flat on sawhorses for easy priming access. Use drop cloths to protect surrounding surfaces from drips. Wear gloves and ventilation masks when spraying primer or solvent-based paints.

Apply the Topcoat

Once the primer is fully cured, follow with 2-3 thin topcoats of your selected finish according to manufacturer guidelines. Lightly sand between coats for maximum adhesion.

For painting: Use a high-quality latex or oil-based metal paint. Apply with a brush, roller, or paint sprayer.

For enamel: Follow your chosen enamel brand’s instructions for best application method and drying times.

For powder coating: You can use a home powder coating kit or hire a pro. Home kits involve hanging or mounting the cabinets to apply the charged powder with a spray gun. It is then cured into a smooth, hard finish using a heat gun. Professionals have special equipment for a pristine factory-like finish.

Take your time with the topcoat application for a smooth, consistent finish. Allow the full curing time before reassembling and reinstalling the cabinets.

Reinstall Doors, Drawers, and Hardware

Once fully cured, you can start to reassemble your refinished Youngstown cabinets. Work in reverse order:

• Reattach all hardware like hinges, handles, and drawer slides using a screwdriver. Refer to your numbering system to ensure proper configuration.
• Rehang all doors and place drawers back in their cabinet frames. Make any minor hardware adjustments for proper alignment if needed.
• Replace all contents neatly in the refreshed cabinet interiors.
• Touch up any minimal imperfections like paint drips for a flawless finish.

Stand back and admire your like-new metal cabinets! With proper prep and application, your refinished Youngstown cabinets should hold up for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get rid of rust spots on my Youngstown metal cabinets before refinishing?

Lightly sand affected areas with 120-150 grit sandpaper until all rust is removed. Wipe clean, spot prime with a rust-inhibiting metal primer, and allow to dry fully before applying your topcoat.

What sheen/finish should I use when painting metal cabinets?

A satin or semi-gloss metal paint provides a smooth, sleek look. Flat or matte paint finishes can look dull on metal over time.

Can I spray paint my metal cabinets for a quicker finish?

Yes, quality spray paints formulated for metal adhere well. Apply light coats, allowing proper dry time between each. Enamel spray paint works great for a glossy look.

How can I give my cabinets an antique or distressed finish?

Apply your topcoat in an off-white, cream, or light gray. Once cured, rub edges or corners with sandpaper to create worn spots and wipe with antique glaze. Top with a sealant.

Is it okay to refinish cabinets still installed in my kitchen?

While it can be done, removing doors and drawers allows for easier, more thorough prep and refinishing. Working around them installed takes more time and care.

How soon can I use my cabinets after refinishing them?

Allow the full drying/curing times noted on primer and paint before reloading cabinets to prevent damage to the fresh finish. Most enamels and paints take 24-48 hours for full hardness.

Conclusion

Refinishing metal kitchen cabinets is an affordable way to update the look of your entire kitchen. Youngstown’s steel cabinets were built to last, but their finish can become outdated or deteriorated over the decades. Preparing, priming, and painting or powder coating Youngstown cabinets lets you enjoy these sturdy cabinets for many more years while changing their style and color to suit modern tastes. With some time and care taken during the process, you can get fantastic long-lasting results. Revitalized Youngstown cabinets can make your kitchen feel fresh and new again.