Restoring old metal cabinets can breathe new life into your kitchen or bathroom. With some cleaning, repairs, and a fresh coat of paint, you can make your outdated cabinets look like new again. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to restore metal cabinets.

Clean the Cabinets Thoroughly

The first step is to empty out the cabinets and thoroughly clean the interior and exterior. Here’s how:

• Remove everything from inside the cabinets and shelves.
• Use a degreaser or all-purpose cleaner to wash the inside of the cabinets. Scrub away any grime, grease or food residue with a sponge or brush.
• Clean the outside of the cabinet boxes and doors using the same degreaser and a cleaning rag. Pay close attention to handles and hinges.
• Rinse everything thoroughly with clean water and allow to fully dry.

Thorough cleaning removes built-up dirt and grease, allowing new paint to adhere better.

Make Any Needed Repairs

Inspect the cabinets closely and make any necessary repairs before painting:

• Tighten or replace any loose hinges or pulls.
• Fix any cracks, holes or splits in the wood with wood filler. Sand smooth when dry.
• Replace any seriously damaged or warped wood panels that cannot be repaired.
• Realign cabinet doors that don’t line up properly when closed. Adjust hinges as needed.
• Replace any missing screws or hardware. Upgrade to new handles or knobs if desired.

Properly prepping and repairing the cabinets will help ensure your freshly painted cabinets look flawless.

Sand the Cabinets

Once cleaned and repaired, sand the cabinets all over using 120-150 grit sandpaper. Always sand in the direction of the wood grain.

• Sand the cabinet boxes, doors, shelves and frames. Don’t forget the inside of cabinet doors.
• Sand until any glossiness is dulled and the old paint is roughened. This helps the new paint adhere.
• Wipe sanded surfaces with a tack cloth to remove all dust.

Thorough sanding is vital for proper paint adhesion. Take your time to do this step properly.

Prime the Cabinets

Priming is highly recommended before painting metal cabinets. Oil-based primers work best:

• Apply primer to all cabinet surfaces with a high-quality brush or sprayer. Work in thin, even coats.
• Use a primer specifically formulated for metal. Rust-inhibiting primers are ideal for preventing future rust.
• Allow primer to dry fully before painting. Sand lightly between coats for maximum adhesion.

Primer helps paint stick, while providing extra protection on metal. Don’t skip this important step.

Paint the Cabinets

Now you’re ready to apply fresh paint for a beautiful, updated look:

• Oil-based or latex cabinet paints both work well. Choose your desired finish and sheen.
• Work in thin, even coats using a high-quality brush or sprayer. Allow proper drying time between coats.
• Use at least two coats for best coverage and durability. Sand lightly between coats for a smooth finish.
• Paint the cabinet boxes, doors, shelves and frames. Don’t forget the cabinet interiors.
• Remove hardware and paint separately for a professional finish.

Take your time with thorough, even painting for a flawless restored look.

Reinstall Hardware

Once the paint has fully cured, carefully reinstall the cleaned hardware:

• Attach hinges, pulls, knobs, shelves, drawer glides, etc. using a drill or screwdriver.
• Ensure all hardware pieces are tightened securely but not overtightened.
• Check that doors and drawers align properly and open/close smoothly. Make any final hardware adjustments.

Rehanging all hardware neatly finishes off your refreshed, repainted cabinets.

Tips for Success

Follow these tips to ensure your metal cabinet restoration goes smoothly:

• Properly prep and clean cabinets for best paint adhesion.
• Use oil-based primers and paints formulated specifically for metal.
• Allow proper drying time between coats for maximum durability.
• Work slowly and carefully for an even, professional finish.
• Replace any damaged wood panels before painting.
• Refresh cabinet interiors and exterior for a complete restoration.

With some elbow grease and these steps, you can give your outdated metal cabinets new life. Enjoy your beautifully restored kitchen or bathroom!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I clean cabinets before painting?

Thorough cleaning removes any grease, dirt or residue on the cabinets. This allows the new primer and paint to properly adhere to the bare metal surface. Cleaning is essential preparation for good paint bonding.

What kind of paint should I use on metal cabinets?

Specialty cabinet paints formulated for metal work best. Look for oil-based or acrylic latex paints made specifically for metal cabinets. Avoid standard wall paints, which don’t adhere as well.

Do I need to use primer?

Primer is highly recommended before painting metal cabinets. It provides extra corrosion resistance and allows the topcoat paint to stick better. Always use primer formulated specifically for metal.

How long does it take to fully restore cabinets?

Plan on devoting most of a weekend to restoring cabinets. Allow at least one full day for proper cleaning, repairs, sanding and priming. Painting may take another full day with drying time. Rushing the job can lead to poor results.

Should I paint cabinet interiors?

Yes, painting the inside of cabinets and doors helps complete the restored look. Use the same primer and paint products for a uniform finish throughout. Just be sure to allow proper drying time before restocking cabinets.

How do I get a smooth painted finish?

Lightly sanding between coats ensures an even, smooth surface for painting. Applying thin, consistent coats of paint and allowing proper drying time between coats also prevents brush marks and drips.

Conclusion

Restoring worn metal cabinets is very rewarding. With some elbow grease and these comprehensive steps, you can strip away old paint and corrosion to reveal beautifully refreshed cabinets. Just be sure to properly prepare, prime, paint and reinstall hardware for a successful restoration you’ll love.