How to Repaint Metal Cabinets

Introduction

Repainting metal cabinets can breathe new life into an outdated kitchen or bathroom. With some preparation and effort, you can transform the look of your metal cabinets yourself and save the high cost of installing brand new cabinetry. There are several key steps to follow to ensure the new paint adheres properly and provides a durable, quality finish.

Clean the Cabinets Thoroughly

The first and most important step is to thoroughly clean the existing cabinet surfaces. Any dirt, grease, or residue will prevent the new paint from properly adhering. Here’s how to clean metal cabinets properly before painting:

• Remove all cabinet doors and drawers. Having just cabinet boxes to work with makes the cleaning process much easier.
• Use a degreasing cleaner or solution made for metal. Scrub all surfaces including the cabinet frame, doors, and drawer fronts.
• Rinse with clean water and let dry completely. Use rags for hard to reach areas.
• Sand lightly with fine sandpaper. This helps roughness adhere with the new paint.
• Clean again with a tack cloth. This picks up any remaining dust or debris.

Take your time with cleaning. The better the prep work, the better your paint job will turn out.

Fill Any Holes or Imperfections

Before painting, you’ll want to fill any holes, cracks, or imperfections in the metal cabinets. Here are some tips for properly filling and prepping these areas:

• Use a filler made for metal. Many auto body fillers work well for small holes and dents.
• Larger holes may need a two-part metal epoxy filler which is stronger and more durable.
• For wood-filled holes, remove any remaining wood pieces and fill with epoxy filler.
• Sand all filled areas smooth once dry.

Addressing any imperfections will give you an ultra smooth finish after painting.

Sand the Metal Cabinets

After thoroughly cleaning, you’ll want to sand the cabinets to help the paint adhere properly. Here is the sanding process to follow:

• Start with medium (120-150) grit sandpaper to rough up the surface. This creates texture for the paint to cling to.
• Focus on sanding any bumps, drips or imperfections smooth. Use finer 220 grit paper for these areas.
• Always sand in the direction of the metal grain for best results.
• Sand all cabinet frames, doors, drawer fronts and trim pieces. Don’t miss any surfaces.
• Clean again with a tack cloth after sanding to remove all dust.

Proper sanding is tedious but vital for paint prep. Take your time to do it right.

Prime the Cabinets

Priming is one of the most important steps for achieving a smooth painted finish. Here are some tips for priming metal cabinets:

• Use a high quality metal primer like Rust-Oleum. This helps bind the new paint for a durable finish.
• Apply with a high density foam roller for a smooth coat. This prevents drips and unevenness.
• Only apply a thin, even layer. Too much primer can cause adhesion problems.
• Let the primer dry completely according to manufacturer directions before painting.
• Lightly sand again with fine (220) grit sandpaper to ensure an ultra smooth surface.

Priming preps the metal surface and provides a uniform base for the new paint. Don’t skip this step!

Choose the Right Paint

For repainting metal cabinets, you’ll want to use a high quality, durable enamel paint. Here are the key factors to consider:

• Opt for an oil-based or hybrid paint. These bond best and provide a rock-hard finish.
• Check that the paint is made specifically for metal surfaces. General paints won’t adhere as well.
• Choose a satin, semi-gloss, or gloss finish. These are easiest to clean over time.
• Make sure the paint can be applied with a roller and tip for an even coat.
• Buy the highest quality paint you can afford for maximum durability.

Investing in a premium metal paint ensures your cabinets keep looking great for years.

Set Up Properly for Painting

To avoid drips and errors when painting the cabinets, you’ll need to set up your workspace properly. Follow these tips:

• Work in a dust-free space with good ventilation. This prevents dust bumps in the finish.
• Cover the floors and any surfaces near the cabinets with drop cloths. Accidents happen.
• Have high quality trim and angled brushes on hand for cutting in. Dispose after using.
• Use painter’s tape for any adjacent walls or surfaces. This keeps edges clean.
• Work on one cabinet door or drawer at a time. Keep organized.

Setting up correctly makes the painting process smoother and the final results much better.

Apply Cabinet Paint

With all of the prep work done, you’re finally ready to apply the cabinet paint. Follow these tips:

• Always paint doors laid flat for minimal drips and sags in the finish.
• Use an high density foam roller and quality brush to apply the paint smoothly.
• Maintain a wet edge to prevent lap marks and texture differences.
• Work methodically and gently to ensure an even coat on all cabinet surfaces.
• Apply two thin coats of paint for adequate coverage and durability.
• Let each coat dry fully according to manufacturer directions before adding another coat.
• Lightly sand with fine (220) grit sandpaper between coats for an ultra smooth finish.

Take your time and don’t rush the painting steps for best results. Proper painting technique is essential.

Reinstall Doors and Drawers

Once the paint has fully cured on all cabinet components, you can reinstall the doors and drawers. Follow these tips:

• Use new hardware like hinges and handles for a fresh look. Clean hardware also looks better against pristine paint.
• Consider adding soft close hinges. These prevent noisy slamming and give a luxury feel.
• Make sure doors and drawers are aligned and functioning properly before tightening hardware.
• Take care not to scratch the fresh paint when installing doors and drawers.
• Let the paint cure for several days before loading cabinets with contents.

The finishing touches like hardware really take your painted cabinets to the next level. Enjoy your updated kitchen!

Tips for Keeping Painted Cabinets Looking Great

With your cabinets beautifully repainted, you’ll want them to maintain their just-painted look. Here are some tips:

• Use microfiber cloths and gentle cleaners. Harsh products can dull or damage the painted finish.
• Immediately clean up any messes or cooking grease from cabinet fronts. Don’t let stains set in.
• Reseal with a fresh coat of paint every 2-3 years. Touch up scratches and scrapes as needed.
• Consider having cabinets professionally sprayed. This can provide a more durable finish long term.
• Replace hardware periodically for a quick update. New handles and hinges keep cabinets looking fresh.

With proper care and maintenance, your freshly painted metal cabinets can stay beautiful for many years to come. Just be diligent about regular cleaning and upkeep.

Common Problems and Solutions

Despite the best preparation and painting technique, you may encounter some problems with your newly painted metal cabinets. Here are some common issues and fixes:

Problem: Paint is peeling or chipping away from metal surfaces.

Solution: This is likely because the metal wasn’t sanded or primed properly before painting. Thoroughly remove loose paint and re-do prep steps before repainting.

Problem: Paint has uneven texture, bumps, or visible roller marks.

Solution: The spray application method provides the smoothest finish. When rolling, use high density foam and apply thinner coats.

Problem: Doors or drawers stick after being reinstalled.

Solution: Reposition and realign doors and drawers. Add paint-safe lubricant to sticky areas if needed.

Problem: Cabinet surfaces show brush marks or drips.

Solution: Use high quality applicators and paint carefully to avoid mistakes. Sand and re-apply paint if necessary.

Catching and fixing any painting problems right away will give you the best end results. Don’t ignore flaws in the finish.

FAQs

Below are some frequently asked questions about repainting metal kitchen cabinets:

How long does it take to repaint cabinets?

The entire process takes 2-4 days depending on drying time. Allow 1 day for cleaning, 1 day for applying primer, and 1-2 days for painting. Curing the paint fully takes 7+ days.

Should cabinets be removed before painting?

Removing doors and drawers is mandatory. The cabinet boxes can be painted in place if desired. This avoids additional heavy lifting.

What kind of roller should be used?

A high density foam roller applies the smoothest finish on cabinet doors and faces. Use a tapered trim brush for cutting in.

Can cabinets be spray painted instead?

Yes, spraying provides the most flawless, professional looking finish. Use HVLP spray equipment and apply in thin coats.

How long does painted cabinetry last?

With proper maintenance, painted cabinets should look fresh for 3-5 years before needing a refresh. High quality paint helps extend this longevity.

Will paint stick to laminate cabinets?

Painting laminate often doesn’t work well long term since paint doesn’t bond to the plastic surface. Sanding provides better adhesion.

What sheen is best for cabinet paint?

Satin and semi-gloss paints are easiest to wipe down and clean over time. Gloss can also work well. Avoid flat paint.

Conclusion

Repainting metal kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities is a big project but has an equally big payoff. With considerable prep work, using the right paint and application technique, and understanding how to fix any problems that arise, you can end up with an updated kitchen or bath that looks like you spent thousands on a professional remodel. While it does require some investment of time and elbow grease, repainting cabinets is an affordable way to transform the look of your home and add real value. Just be patient with the process and don’t cut corners. Your freshly painted metal cabinets will look amazing for years to come with the proper prep and care.