How to Refurbish Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Metal kitchen cabinets can last for decades if properly cared for. But over time, they may start to show signs of wear such as chipped paint, rust, dents, or corroded surfaces. Refurbishing metal kitchen cabinets through repairs, repainting, or refinishing can restore them to like-new condition and allow you to enjoy their durable benefits for years to come.

Assessing the Condition of Your Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Before beginning any refurbishment project, take time to thoroughly assess the current state of your metal kitchen cabinets. This will help you identify problem areas and determine the best approach for repairs and restoration.

Here are some things to check:

• Paint condition – Inspect for chips, cracks, peeling, discoloration. If the damage is minimal, you may be able to touch up with paint. If large areas are affected, plan to repaint entirely.
• Rust – Look along edges, joints, and screw holes for any signs of rust or corrosion. Addressing rust early is key to prevent further spread.
• Dents and dings – Dents generally occur from impact damage. Check doors, frames, and cabinet boxes. Dings are small dents that may be possible to pop out.
• Loose or damaged hardware – Ensure doors open/close properly and hardware like hinges and pulls are securely attached.
• Structural issues – Check that cabinet boxes are level and doors/drawers align and operate smoothly.

Making notes on each cabinet’s condition will help in determining repair needs. Set aside cabinets with only minor issues to focus first on those needing extensive restoration.

Cleaning Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Before painting, repairing, or refinishing, thoroughly clean kitchen cabinets to remove grease, dirt, and grime. This allows new paint to adhere properly.

Supplies needed:

• Mild detergent or degreasing cleaner
• Clean cloths and scrub pads
• Mineral spirits or paint thinner
• Tack cloths
• Drop cloths

Steps for cleaning:

• Remove doors, drawers, and hardware and set aside. Number pieces to keep organized.
• Wash cabinet boxes, doors, frames, etc with a mild detergent solution. Use a degreasing cleaner to cut through stubborn grease.
• Use a plastic scrub pad to gently agitate on soiled areas. Avoid abrasive scouring pads.
• For surfaces with glossy finishes, wipe down with mineral spirits using a clean rag. Test on a small area first.
• Pay special attention to grimy areas like around knobs and handles.
• Let surfaces fully dry. Wipe down with a tack cloth to remove any residue.
• Clean hardware like knobs and hinges with a mineral spirits soaked rag. Scrub to remove gunk and buildup.
• Before reattaching doors and drawers, give inside of cabinet boxes a final wipe down.

Thorough cleaning removes potential barriers for paint adhesion and creates the ideal surface for your refurbishment project.

Repairing Dents, Dings, and Other Damage on Metal Cabinets

While cleaning your metal kitchen cabinets, you likely noticed some dents, dings, or other minor damage. Addressing these imperfections will help restore your cabinets to a smooth, flawless finish. Here are some tips for common repairs:

Popping Out Dings

Using a rubber mallet:

• Place a block of wood on the inside of the dinged area to absorb impact.
• Firmly tap the outside of the dent with a rubber mallet.
• Slowly move the mallet around the periphery of the dent, tapping gently.
• Check progress frequently. The goal is to gently push the dent back into original shape.
• Any remaining loose edges can be sanded smooth before painting.

With a dolly and hammer:

• A dolly is a tool that fits behind the dented area to provide backing.
• Position the dolly behind the dent and tap the top surface firmly with a hammer.
• The rounded surface helps push out dents without additional damage.
• Check often and stop when the ding is no longer visible.

Filling Holes and Gaps

• Use auto body filler designed for metal. This bonds best without shrinking.
• Thoroughly clean the area first and roughen surfaces with sandpaper.
• Knead auto body filler to activate. Apply thinly over holes or gaps.
• Allow filler to cure fully. Sand smooth. Prime and paint.

Sanding Down Scratches

• Lightly sand affected areas using fine (220-400 grit) sandpaper.
• Sand in direction of existing brush strokes to avoid new scratches.
• Don’t sand down to bare metal. Focus only on smoothing scratches.
• Remove dust. Spot prime sanded areas before painting.

Take time for proper prep and repairs to get cabinets back to a smooth, damage-free surface.

Rust Removal and Prevention

If rust is present on your metal kitchen cabinets, it’s crucial to address this right away before it spreads and causes pitting. Here are some effective rust removal methods:

Sanding

• Use medium to fine (120-220) grit sandpaper to rub out rust spots.
• Concentrate on affected areas only. Be careful not to remove too much around edges.
• Sand until all traces of rust are gone and only clean metal remains.
• Wipe away dust. Spot prime immediately to protect newly exposed metal.

Naval Jelly

• Naval jelly contains phosphoric acid which converts reddish iron oxide to black iron phosphate.
• Brush jelly generously onto rust spots. Allow to sit for 15-30 mins.
• Rinse clean. Scrub with steel wool or fine sandpaper if any rust remains.
• Dry thoroughly and prime.

Vinegar

• Plain white vinegar works as a mild acid for surface rust removal.
• Soak paper towel in vinegar and place over rust spots for 1-2 hours.
• Check and reapply more vinegar every 30 mins.
• Once rust turns black, rinse and scrub area clean. Dry fully.

Rust Converter

• Brush liquid converter onto rusted areas. Allow to dry 24 hours.
• Rust converter chemically transforms rust into an inert protective coating.
• Scrape off any loose rust powder. Sand and feather edges.
• Restore with primer and paint to prevent future rust.

For ongoing prevention, keep cabinets dry and maintain paint. A yearly touch up helps avoid rust recurring.

Refinishing Worn or Damaged Finishes

If your metal kitchen cabinets have worn down finishes or areas where old paint has chipped away, refinishing can renew their appearance. Here are some refinishing options:

Stripping

• Use a paint and varnish stripping gel applied by brush.
• Let stripper sit for adequate dwell time to soften old finish.
• Scrub with a plastic bristle brush and rinse clean.
• Repeat stripping if needed for thick layers. Let dry fully.
• Sand lightly to smooth and prep for new finish.

Sanding

• For partial finish wear, try sanding only affected areas.
• Use an orbital sander with 120-150 grit paper to remove loose finish.
• Feather edges smooth with the surrounding surface.
• Avoid over-sanding which can create dents or expose bare metal.
• Wipe clean and apply suitable primer and paint.

Spray paint

• For small touch ups, a spray can of primer and paint can blend in.
• Scuff sand trouble spots lightly to help paint adhere.
• Clean and dry surfaces fully. Mask off nearby areas.
• Apply thin coats, allowing proper dry time between coats.
• Replace knobs/handles for a quick mini makeover.

Full refinishing is intensive but yields “like-new” results. Spot repairs help prolong time between major refinishing jobs.

Priming and Painting Metal Kitchen Cabinets

The key to a durable, long-lasting paint finish is proper prep work and using primer specifically formulated for metal. Here are tips for success:

Choosing paint and primer

• For painting galvanized steel cabinets, use an etching primer or dedicated galvanized primer.
• For wood-grain textured steel cabinets, opt for primer and paint with rust prevention.
• Seek an exterior grade primer and paint since cabinets see high humidity.
• Opt for satin, semi-gloss, or high gloss sheens for easiest cleaning.
• White paint brightens cabinets but any color can give your kitchen a fresh new look.

Prep work

• Remove doors, drawers, and hardware. Clean surfaces thoroughly.
• Fill dents, sand away scratches, and address any rust spots.
• Degrease and lightly sand for paint adhesion. Wipe clean.
• Use painter’s tape and paper to mask off nearby surfaces from drips.

Priming

• Apply primer soon after cleaning before oxidation occurs.
• For brush painting, use high quality nylon or polyester bristle brushes.
• Maintain a wet edge by brushing from unpainted into painted areas.
• Work methodically and don’t overbrush which can create bubbles.
• Let primer fully cure before sanding lightly and applying paint.

Painting

• Before painting, sand primed surfaces with fine 320 grit sandpaper.
• Opt for an airless sprayer or high density foam roller for the smoothest finish.
• Apply paint in thin, even coats allowing proper drying time between coats.
• Finish with three coats for best durability and coverage.
• Let paint cure fully for days before reattaching doors and drawers.

Proper prep, priming, and painting technique allows your metal kitchen cabinets to withstand busy kitchen conditions for maximum longevity. Plan to repaint every 2-3 years.

Common Questions About Refurbishing Metal Kitchen Cabinets

How long does it take to refurbish metal kitchen cabinets?

The time needed depends on cabinet condition and refurbishing scope. Thorough cleaning may take 2-3 hours. Spot repairs can be done in a day. Full refinishing with paint can take 1-2 days per cabinet with drying time between steps. Allow more time for major repairs.

What kind of paint should be used?

The best choices are oil or latex-based primer and paint designed specifically for metal. Opt for exterior grade for durability and sheens like satin, semi-gloss, or high-gloss for easy cleaning.

Is it better to spray or brush paint cabinets?

While spraying with an airless paint sprayer allows for the smoothest finish, brush painting produces pleasing results if careful technique is used. Combining both methods is good – spray boxes and frames then brush doors and trim.

How do you prep metal cabinets for painting?

Thoroughly clean and degrease all surfaces first. Lightly sand to scuff up the finish which helps paint adhere. Use tack cloths to remove any dust before priming. Proper prep is vital for good paint bonding.

Should cabinets be removed before refinishing?

Yes, you’ll achieve the best results by fully removing doors, drawers, and hardware and refinishing components separately. Number pieces to keep organized. It allows for easier access to all areas.

Can you change the color of metal cabinets?

Absolutely! Priming first is key, then you can paint metal cabinets any color you like to give your kitchen a whole new look. Lighter colors help small or dark kitchens feel more open and spacious.

Conclusion

Although metal kitchen cabinets are designed to be durable, signs of wear eventually occur after years of heavy use. Refurbishing through thorough cleaning, repairs, rust removal, refinishing, and repainting restores metal cabinets to a fresh, “like new” condition. With proper care and maintenance, your metal cabinets can continue providing reliable service and aesthetic appeal long into the future. Investing some time and effort into refurbishment can extend the lifetime of your metal kitchen cabinet investment while also giving your kitchen an updated facelift.