How to Restore a Metal Filing Cabinet
Restoring an old metal filing cabinet can seem like a daunting task, but with some cleaning, repairs, and a fresh coat of paint, you can give new life to a vintage cabinet. A restored filing cabinet not only looks great, but can provide many more years of sturdy storage and organization. Follow this guide to properly restore your metal filing cabinet to its former glory.
Cleaning and Prepping the Filing Cabinet
Before painting or making any repairs, you’ll need to thoroughly clean the filing cabinet and remove any loose paint or rust. This prep work is crucial for the new paint to properly adhere and give you a smooth finished look.
Supplies Needed
- Gloves
- Safety goggles
- Drop cloths
- Painter’s tape
- Tarp or sheet
- Clean rags
- Tack cloth
- Metal scrapers
- Putty knife
- Paint thinner
- Fine grit sandpaper
- Chemical paint stripper (optional)
Steps for Cleaning
- Remove the drawers. Take out all drawers from the cabinet and set aside. This gives you full access to the body and makes it easier to work.
- Protect flooring and surfaces. Lay down drop cloths, tarps, or an old sheet to protect surrounding surfaces from paint drips and chemicals. Use painter’s tape to cover any areas you don’t want stripped or damaged.
- Remove loose paint and rust. Use a metal scraper, putty knife, or sandpaper to scrape off any loose paint, rust spots, or flaking finish from all surfaces, inside and out. Be thorough but gentle enough not to gouge or scratch the metal.
- Clean with paint thinner. Dip clean rags in paint thinner and wipe down all interior and exterior surfaces. This removes grease, dirt, and any remaining wax or oils.
- Use chemical paint stripper. For thick coats of paint that won’t easily scrape off, apply paint stripper as directed on the packaging. Let it sit for the recommended time, then scrape away the bubbled paint with a putty knife. Repeat as needed.
- Sand surfaces. Lightly sand all surfaces with fine grit sandpaper to rough up the metal and help the primer and paint bond. Be sure to sand inside drawers and compartments too.
- Wipe clean with a tack cloth. Use a tack cloth to remove any remaining dust or residue after sanding. This leaves your surfaces clean and ready for primer.
Safety Tips
- Work in a well-ventilated area when using chemicals or paint thinner.
- Wear gloves and goggles for eye and skin protection.
- Follow all safety directions when using paint stripper.
- Clean up any drips or spills immediately.
- Properly dispose of rags, paint chips, and chemicals.
Repairing Dents, Gouges, and Rust Spots
Before painting your filing cabinet, take time to repair any dents, holes, cracks, or sections rusted through. This will give your finished piece a smooth, flawless look.
Supplies Needed
- Sandpaper
- Metal filler/putty or auto body filler
- Putty knife
- Rust reformer
- Primer
- Touch-up paint (optional)
Steps for Repairs
- Sand areas to be repaired. Rough up dented or rusted spots with sandpaper to help filler adhere.
- Fill dents and gouges. Use metal filler putty and a putty knife to fill any dents, cracks, or holes. Let dry completely.
- Treat rust spots. Brush rust reformer onto any rust spots or areas with rust holes. Let it dry.
- Sand smooth. Once dry, sand all repaired areas smooth and even with surrounding metal.
- Apply primer. Spot prime over repairs with a coating of primer. This helps seal and protect them.
- Touch-up paint. For small repairs, use touch-up paint that matches your cabinet finish. Let dry thoroughly before final paint job.
Tips for Repairs
- If rust has penetrated fully through the metal, you may need to patch with sheet metal pieces.
- For the best results filling dents, apply several thin layers of filler putty rather than one thick coat.
- Always read and follow the directions on any products used for best results.
Painting the Metal Filing Cabinet
Now comes the fun part – choose a fresh new color and give your filing cabinet a makeover with paint! Follow these steps for a smooth painted finish.
Supplies Needed
- Painter’s tape
- Drop cloths
- Painters plastic sheeting
- High quality primer
- Oil-based enamel spray paint or paint brush/roller set
- Paint thinner (if using brush)
- Sandpaper (220 grit and 400 grit)
- Tack cloth
- Rags
- Painters mask
Steps for Painting
- Remove hardware. Take off hinges, handles, and any other hardware. Set aside and label so you can easily reattach later.
- Mask off areas. Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want painted, like glass window panes or cabinet interiors.
- Set up painting area. Lay down drop cloths and plastic sheeting to protect floors and surfaces from drips. Have paint thinner, rags, and sandpaper nearby.
- Apply primer. Use 220 grit sandpaper to scuff up surfaces, then wipe clean with a tack cloth. Apply 1-2 coats of primer, letting dry fully between coats.
- Lightly sand primer. Once primer is fully cured, sand lightly with 400 grit sandpaper to smooth any drips or rough spots. Wipe clean.
- Apply paint. Follow directions on spray paint can and shake vigorously before spraying. Use smooth back and forth motions, holding can 6-8 inches away. Or use a paintbrush, applying thin and even coats of enamel paint. Allow to fully dry between coats according to paint directions.
- Apply second coat. Lightly sand again with 400 grit sandpaper, then wipe clean and apply a second finish coat of spray paint or enamel paint.
- Remove painter’s tape. Once paint is completely dry, carefully remove all masking tape and sheeting. Reattach any hardware removed earlier.
- ** Admirer your work!** Your filing cabinet makeover is complete! Let the paint cure fully before loading back up with files.
Tips for a Professional Look
- Always read and follow all paint directions carefully.
- Use long, smooth brush strokes when painting with a brush for an even coat.
- Use very light coats of spray paint and keep the can moving to avoid drips and runs.
- Paint in a dust-free area or lightly sand and wipe between coats.
- Take your time with prep work and repairs – this leads to better painting results.
Maintaining and Caring for a Repainted Filing Cabinet
Now that you’ve put in all that hard work to refresh your filing cabinet, you’ll want to take steps to keep it looking its best. Here are some tips for maintaining your painted metal cabinet:
- Avoid putting very heavy items that could dent or scratch the new paint job. Use small furniture pads under heavy items.
- Dust regularly with a soft cloth to prevent buildup of dirt and debris that can wear down the finish.
- Use only cleaning products labeled as safe for painted metal if cleaning is needed. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive pads.
- Place small adhesive felt pads under any items you set on top of the cabinet to avoid scratches.
- Avoid placing in direct sunlight, as UV rays may fade the paint over time.
- If paint becomes chipped or scratched, touch up immediately with matching touch up paint.
- Consider applying paste wax once or twice a year. This protects the paint and makes scuffs or marks easier to remove.
- Check for signs of new rust spots forming, especially around joints, and sand and touch up paint as soon as you notice any.
- Be very careful moving the cabinet to avoid scratches – use furniture pads under the legs.
With proper care and maintenance, your newly restored filing cabinet can stay fresh and damage-free for many more years of service organizing your home or office. Just be sure to act quickly if any new dents, chips, or other issues arise to prevent more costly repairs down the road. Enjoy the renewed style and storage of your vintage painted cabinet!
Frequently Asked Questions About Restoring Metal Filing Cabinets
What type of paint should I use to refinish a metal filing cabinet?
For the best results, use oil-based enamel spray paint or brush-on enamel paint. The hard, glossy finish resists chipping and stands up well to wear and tear. Primer formulated for metal also provides good adhesion on metal cabinets.
How do I get rid of rust on a metal cabinet before painting?
Lightly sand any rust spots with fine sandpaper, then apply a rust reformer chemical. This converts rust into a paintable surface. Wipe clean and apply metal primer before painting. For sections with rust holes, small metal patches may be needed.
What’s the best way to remove old paint from a metal filing cabinet?
For removing paint, an aircraft paint remover or chemical gel stripper works well. Apply a thick coat, let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then scrape off with a putty knife. Wear gloves and work in a ventilated area. Repeat if needed. Sand any remaining paint roughs before priming.
What should I use to fill dents and holes in a metal filing cabinet?
An auto body filler putty designed for metal works perfectly to fill dents and gouges before painting metal. Apply in thin layers, allowing each to fully dry, then sand smooth. Spot prime repaired areas before painting the full cabinet.
Can I paint a filing cabinet without removing the drawers?
It’s best to remove all drawers and doors prior to painting to fully reach all the nooks and crannies of the cabinet. Lay drawers on cardboard or cloth so the hardware doesn’t get painted. Tape off any parts you don’t remove.
How do I restore the rolled edges of a vintage metal filing cabinet?
Unfortunately the edges of rolled metal cannot be successfully re-rolled at home once uncurled. Your best bet is to smooth any rough edges then paint the metal trim piece around the rolled edge to redefine it.
What kind of primer should I use before painting metal?
Always opt for a primer specifically formulated for metal when refinishing filing cabinets and similar metal pieces. Metal primers contain rust inhibitors and offer the best adhesion on slick metal surfaces.
Can I use chalk paint on a metal filing cabinet?
Chalk paint does not adhere well directly to slick metal surfaces. You must apply a chalk paint bonding primer first if using chalk type paint on metal. For best results, metal filing cabinets do best with traditional spray paints and enamels.
Final Thoughts
Restoring worn or damaged metal filing cabinets may take some work – but in the end you can revive tired old office furniture to give them years more use. With some time invested in cleaning, repairs, priming, and painting with enamel spray paint or brush-on paint, you can refresh metal cabinets on a budget. So don’t send that old metal filing cabinet to the curb next time you need more office storage. With a little DIY restoration work, you can upcycle it affordably into a stylish and functional piece that looks brand new!
How to Restore a Metal Filing Cabinet
Restoring an old metal filing cabinet can seem like a daunting task, but with some cleaning, repairs, and a fresh coat of paint, you can give new life to a vintage cabinet. A restored filing cabinet not only looks great, but can provide many more years of sturdy storage and organization. Follow this guide to properly restore your metal filing cabinet to its former glory.
Cleaning and Prepping the Filing Cabinet
Before painting or making any repairs, you’ll need to thoroughly clean the filing cabinet and remove any loose paint or rust. This prep work is crucial for the new paint to properly adhere and give you a smooth finished look.
Supplies Needed
- Gloves
- Safety goggles
- Drop cloths
- Painter’s tape
- Tarp or sheet
- Clean rags
- Tack cloth
- Metal scrapers
- Putty knife
- Paint thinner
- Fine grit sandpaper
- Chemical paint stripper (optional)
Steps for Cleaning
- Remove the drawers. Take out all drawers from the cabinet and set aside. This gives you full access to the body and makes it easier to work.
- Protect flooring and surfaces. Lay down drop cloths, tarps, or an old sheet to protect surrounding surfaces from paint drips and chemicals. Use painter’s tape to cover any areas you don’t want stripped or damaged.
- Remove loose paint and rust. Use a metal scraper, putty knife, or sandpaper to scrape off any loose paint, rust spots, or flaking finish from all surfaces, inside and out. Be thorough but gentle enough not to gouge or scratch the metal.
- Clean with paint thinner. Dip clean rags in paint thinner and wipe down all interior and exterior surfaces. This removes grease, dirt, and any remaining wax or oils.
- Use chemical paint stripper. For thick coats of paint that won’t easily scrape off, apply paint stripper as directed on the packaging. Let it sit for the recommended time, then scrape away the bubbled paint with a putty knife. Repeat as needed.
- Sand surfaces. Lightly sand all surfaces with fine grit sandpaper to rough up the metal and help the primer and paint bond. Be sure to sand inside drawers and compartments too.
- Wipe clean with a tack cloth. Use a tack cloth to remove any remaining dust or residue after sanding. This leaves your surfaces clean and ready for primer.
Safety Tips
- Work in a well-ventilated area when using chemicals or paint thinner.
- Wear gloves and goggles for eye and skin protection.
- Follow all safety directions when using paint stripper.
- Clean up any drips or spills immediately.
- Properly dispose of rags, paint chips, and chemicals.
Repairing Dents, Gouges, and Rust Spots
Before painting your filing cabinet, take time to repair any dents, holes, cracks, or sections rusted through. This will give your finished piece a smooth, flawless look.
Supplies Needed
- Sandpaper
- Metal filler/putty or auto body filler
- Putty knife
- Rust reformer
- Primer
- Touch-up paint (optional)
Steps for Repairs
- Sand areas to be repaired. Rough up dented or rusted spots with sandpaper to help filler adhere.
- Fill dents and gouges. Use metal filler putty and a putty knife to fill any dents, cracks, or holes. Let dry completely.
- Treat rust spots. Brush rust reformer onto any rust spots or areas with rust holes. Let it dry.
- Sand smooth. Once dry, sand all repaired areas smooth and even with surrounding metal.
- Apply primer. Spot prime over repairs with a coating of primer. This helps seal and protect them.
- Touch-up paint. For small repairs, use touch-up paint that matches your cabinet finish. Let dry thoroughly before final paint job.
Tips for Repairs
- If rust has penetrated fully through the metal, you may need to patch with sheet metal pieces.
- For the best results filling dents, apply several thin layers of filler putty rather than one thick coat.
- Always read and follow the directions on any products used for best results.
Painting the Metal Filing Cabinet
Now comes the fun part – choose a fresh new color and give your filing cabinet a makeover with paint! Follow these steps for a smooth painted finish.
Supplies Needed
- Painter’s tape
- Drop cloths
- Painters plastic sheeting
- High quality primer
- Oil-based enamel spray paint or paint brush/roller set
- Paint thinner (if using brush)
- Sandpaper (220 grit and 400 grit)
- Tack cloth
- Rags
- Painters mask
Steps for Painting
- Remove hardware. Take off hinges, handles, and any other hardware. Set aside and label so you can easily reattach later.
- Mask off areas. Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want painted, like glass window panes or cabinet interiors.
- Set up painting area. Lay down drop cloths and plastic sheeting to protect floors and surfaces from drips. Have paint thinner, rags, and sandpaper nearby.
- Apply primer. Use 220 grit sandpaper to scuff up surfaces, then wipe clean with a tack cloth. Apply 1-2 coats of primer, letting dry fully between coats.
- Lightly sand primer. Once primer is fully cured, sand lightly with 400 grit sandpaper to smooth any drips or rough spots. Wipe clean.
- Apply paint. Follow directions on spray paint can and shake vigorously before spraying. Use smooth back and forth motions, holding can 6-8 inches away. Or use a paintbrush, applying thin and even coats of enamel paint. Allow to fully dry between coats according to paint directions.
- Apply second coat. Lightly sand again with 400 grit sandpaper, then wipe clean and apply a second finish coat of spray paint or enamel paint.
- Remove painter’s tape. Once paint is completely dry, carefully remove all masking tape and sheeting. Reattach any hardware removed earlier.
- Admirer your work! Your filing cabinet makeover is complete! Let the paint cure fully before loading back up with files.
Tips for a Professional Look
- Always read and follow all paint directions carefully.
- Use long, smooth brush strokes when painting with a brush for an
