A metal filing cabinet can be an invaluable organizational tool in your home or office. Over time, filing cabinets can get worn down and start to look a bit scruffy. Rather than replacing your tried-and-true metal cabinet, consider refurbishing it to give it a new lease on life! Refurbishing a metal filing cabinet is an easy and affordable DIY project that anyone can tackle. With a little bit of time and effort, you can restore your filing cabinet to look like new. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the steps needed to refurbish a metal filing cabinet from start to finish.

Preparing to Refurbish Your Metal Filing Cabinet

Before you start the refurbishing process, take some time to prepare your workspace and gather the necessary supplies. Having everything you need at your fingertips will make the project go much smoother.

Choose a Well-Ventilated Workspace

Refurbishing a filing cabinet requires using paints and solvents that give off fumes. Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area, either outside or in a room with open windows and fans running. Wearing a protective mask when sanding or spraying paints is also recommended. Avoid working in closed rooms to prevent inhaling unhealthy fumes.

Clear a Workspace Big Enough for the Cabinet

You’ll need ample space around the filing cabinet to comfortably work on all sides. Clear an area in your garage, basement, or backyard that provides room to maneuver. Use drop cloths or tarps to protect surrounding surfaces from drips and spills. Try to work on a flat, level surface so the cabinet doesn’t wobble while you work.

Remove ALL Contents from the Cabinet

It’s absolutely necessary to fully empty the filing cabinet before attempting to refurbish it. Remove every file folder, loose paper, and any shelving or hanging file frames. You don’t want anything inside that could get accidentally painted or damaged in the process. Store the contents elsewhere until the project is complete.

Gather Your Metal Refurbishing Supplies

These common hardware store items will be your go-to supplies for refurbishing a metal filing cabinet:

• Sandpaper: Both coarse (100-150 grit) and fine (220+ grit) for smoothing surfaces
• Paint stripper: To remove any old flaking paint or varnish
• Rags and paintbrushes: For applying stripper and stain
• scrapers: To help remove paint and debris from small areas
• TSP cleaner: To deeply clean surfaces after stripping old finish
• Primer/paint: Specifically formulated for metal
• Metal polish: For buffing metal hardware to shine
• New drawer pulls/hinges: If replacing damaged hardware

Dress Appropriately for the Project

Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty or stained. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are a must for safety. Wear latex or rubber gloves to protect your hands from harsh chemicals. Safety goggles and a mask are recommended for sanding, stripping, and spraying steps.

Stripping Paint and Removing Rust

The first hands-on step is to completely remove any existing paint, varnish, rust, or debris from the metal surfaces. This prep work is crucial for the new paint to properly adhere.

Use Paint Stripper to Remove Old Finish

Apply a thick coating of paint stripper liberally on all surfaces using a paintbrush or plastic applicator. Let it sit for the amount of time recommended on the packaging. The old finish will bubble up as the stripper penetrates. Use a plastic scraper to scrape away the loosening paint and varnish. Rinse thoroughly with water.

Repeated applications may be needed for stubborn spots. Wear gloves, eye protection, and ventilation mask when handling paint stripper.

Utilize Sandpaper on All Areas

Use courser 100-150 grit sandpaper to vigorously sand away any remaining paint, rust spots, or rough debris. Then follow up with 220+ fine grit sandpaper to smooth everything out. Sand in the direction of the metal grain to avoid major scratches.

Be sure to sand every surface, nook, and cranny that will be painted, inside drawers and all. Wipe away sanding dust with a tack cloth.

Remove Rust with Vinegar or Naval Jelly

For areas of light surface rust, soak a rag in white vinegar and let it sit on the affected areas for 1-2 hours. Scrub with steel wool then wipe clean. For heavier rust, apply naval jelly rust remover and let it sit before scrubbing and rinsing.

Use TSP Cleaner on the Metal

Once all old finish and rust are removed, clean every surface with TSP cleaner. This will remove grease, dirt, and debris that could impede paint from sticking. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning and let dry fully.

Making Repairs and Reinforcing Joints

Before painting, inspect the filing cabinet for any repairs needed. Proactively fixing problems will add years of longevity.

Reinforce Wobbly Joints

If joints are becoming loose or drawers are getting wobbly, reinforce with wood glue or epoxy. Clamp tightened joints until the adhesive sets. Add L brackets or reinforcement plates to the back corners for extra stability if needed.

Fix Dents and Gouges

Use automotive body filler putty to fill in any dents, holes, or gouges in the metal. Sand smooth once dry. You can also replace severely damaged metal drawer fronts or panels rather than trying to repair major damage.

Replace Broken Hardware

Examine drawer pulls, rails, and hinges. Replace anything that is broken, bent, or missing with new hardware. Install drawer pulls evenly across drawers for a uniform look. Lubricate sticky metal drawer slides with an oil or dry lubricant spray.

Add New Casters

Consider replacing old plastic casters on the cabinet base with new rubber wheel casters designed for hardwood or tile floors. This makes it easy to move the heavy cabinet to clean behind and around it.

Priming and Painting the Metal Surfaces

Now comes the fun part – choosing a fresh new color and paint for your refurbished filing cabinet!

Apply Primer Coats

Use spray cans to apply 2-3 thin, even coats of metal primer allowing proper dry time between coats. Primer helps the paint better bond to the metal. For best results, use primer specifically made for metal rather than multi-surface types.

Select a High-Quality Metal Paint

The right type of paint ensures a smooth, durable finish. Look for enamel spray paints meant for metal, or liquid paints like Rust-Oleum. Oil-based paints provide the hardest finish. Choose satin, semi-gloss or gloss sheen for easy cleaning.

Paint the Cabinet Inside and Out

Follow the paint manufacturer’s directions for application and dry time. Apply using smooth brush strokes. Use spray paint for large exterior surfaces, and a trim brush for smaller intricate areas. Paint the cabinet inside and out – don’t forget the backs of drawers and the interior!

Apply Multiple Coats

Thin, even coats allow layers to fully dry and bond properly. Wait the recommended recoat time between layers. Typically 3-4 thin coats provides good coverage on metal. Sand lightly between coats for a smooth finish if needed.

Remove Drawers to Paint Separately

Painting the drawers while removed from the cabinet allows for easier access to all sides. Let the drawer paint dry thoroughly before reinstalling to avoid sticking.

Finishing Touches for a Professional Look

You’re in the home stretch! Add some finishing touches to give your filing cabinet a stylish, custom look.

Sand Between Paint Coats

For an ultra-smooth finish, wet sand the cured paint using 400 grit sandpaper. Wipe dry, then apply 1-2 final paint coats. Handle paint with care while wet for a few days.

Add New Drawer Liner Paper

Line inside of drawers with fresh liner paper to protect files from new paint. Use printable liner paper to add a pop of color or pattern!

Label Drawers

Use vinyl drawer nameplates or printable labels to label each drawer for organized filing. Adhere neatly aligned on the front of each drawer.

Update Hardware

Install new handles, label holders, locks, or file bars to personalize your cabinet. Stainless steel and brushed nickel are sleek modern options.

Add Trim Accents

Stick-on trim pieces add architectural detail. Look for vintage style trim designs at hardware stores and online.

Wax and Polish All Metal

Apply paste wax to the metal filing cabinet and buff it out using steel wool. Polish metal hardware like handles and hinges until shiny.

Usage and Care Guide

Now that your filing cabinet is beautifully refurbished, you want to keep it looking its best. Follow these usage and care tips:

• Only use indoor latex paints to repaint if needed vs. outdoor types
• Dust cabinet inside and out regularly
• Clean painted metal only with mild cleaners and microfiber cloths
• Avoid setting or spilling liquids directly on metal
• Keep cabinet out of direct sunlight to avoid fading
• Lubricate drawer slides if they become sticky
• Tighten hardware if needed to keep doors/drawers operating smoothly
• Use desk drawer liner inside cabinets to make cleaning easier

With proper care and maintenance, your freshly refurbished metal filing cabinet will maintain its renewed look for many years of dependable service organizing your home or office!

Frequently Asked Questions About Refurbishing Metal Filing Cabinets

Refurbishing an old metal filing cabinet can seem daunting, but asking the right questions helps ensure success. Here are answers to some of the most common FAQs about revitalizing metal cabinets:

Is it worth it to refurbish an old metal filing cabinet?

In most cases, definitely yes! Refurbishing a quality metal cabinet that still functions well is far less expensive than buying a new one. With some DIY time and effort, you can restore it to like-new condition at a fraction of replacement cost.

What supply costs are typical for a filing cabinet refurbishment?

Expect to spend $50-$100 on supplies like primer, paint, sandpaper, hardware, etc. Having the right metal-specific products helps achieve a professional finish.

How long does the refurbishing process take from start to finish?

Plan for 15-20 hours total work time. Working a few hours over multiple days allows ample time for prep, painting, drying, and finishing coats. Rushing through stages can ruin the paint job.

Should I paint the inside of the filing cabinet too?

Absolutely! Painting just the exterior will lead to chipping when drawers are opened. Painting the inside as well seals all metal and helps the finish last. Use a small roller or brush for interior surfaces.

What types of new hardware can I add when refurbishing a filing cabinet?

Swapping out dated hardware for updated pulls, hinges, casters and label holders modernizes the look. Add locks, file hanging bars, drawer dividers or shelf kits for more customization.

Will new paint help a filing cabinet run more smoothly?

Yes! If old paint buildup was causing sticking and friction, the fresh paint creates a smooth surface. Lubricate slides and tight spots with dry Teflon spray to improve performance.

Should I replace the rollers, slides or hinges instead of repainting?

If the core components are worn out or badly damaged, replacement hardware may be needed. But if the action is still fairly smooth, a good cleaning and paint refresh is usually adequate.

What about refurbishing wooden filing cabinets – is the process any different?

The basic steps are the same, but use wood cleaners, primers and paints formulated for wood instead of metal. Replace damaged veneer rather than using body fillers and putty on wood.

Is there a way to refurbish while keeping the “vintage” look?

Yes! Use a high-grit sandpaper to lightly scuff and prep the metal, then apply a clear matte sealer finish rather than paint. This preserves the aged patina while protecting the metal.

Conclusion

With some handy DIY skills and the right supplies, you can breathe new life into a worn metal filing cabinet for a fraction of the cost of buying new. Refurbishing utilitarian pieces like filing cabinets allows you to inexpensively customize them to match your unique style. Hopefully this guide has armed you with the knowledge needed to tackle a metal filing cabinet refresh project with confidence. In no time you’ll have revitalized organizational storage while avoiding the hassle and waste of replacement. So clear off that workspace, gather those materials, and get ready to unleash your inner filing cabinet restoration maestro!