How to Restore Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Clean the Cabinets Thoroughly

The first step is to empty out the cabinets and clean them thoroughly. Use a degreasing cleaner or soap and water to remove built-up grime, grease and dirt. Pay close attention to the corners and hinges. Consider removing the doors and drawers to clean all surfaces. Once done, dry everything completely with a soft cloth.

Sand Away Imperfections

Examine the cabinets for any scratches, chips, peeling paint or rust spots. Sand these areas lightly with fine grit sandpaper until smooth. Be careful not to overly scuff the good existing finish. Wipe away any sanding dust with a dry cloth.

Prime Bare Metal

If there are any bare metal spots showing through, apply a coat of metal primer to prevent rust. Choose a primer made specifically for metal. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving to the next step.

Apply New Paint

Repainting the metal cabinets can give them a fresh, updated look. For best results, use a high quality oil-based or enamel paint. Apply 2-3 thin, even coats allowing each coat to fully dry. Lightly sand between coats for a smooth finish. White, cream and gray tones work well for a classic kitchen. Or choose bright colors for a funky, retro look.

Consider New Hardware

Replacing the old hardware is an easy upgrade for metal cabinets. Visit your local home improvement store to browse knobs, pulls, hinges and handles. Opt for brushed nickel or chrome for a sleek, modern look. Black hardware makes a bold statement. Or stick with a classic brass finish for a timeless style.

Replace Doors and Drawers

If the cabinet doors and drawers are damaged or worn, consider replacing them. New doors and drawers can give the kitchen a quick facelift. Try to find replacements that fit the existing cabinet boxes. Custom ordering doors is also an option to get the perfect look.

Add New Shelving

Take the opportunity to upgrade the interior fittings of the cabinets. Install organizers, lazy susans and pull-out shelves to maximize the storage space. This can make the inside of the cabinets as fresh and functional as the exterior.

Restoring metal kitchen cabinets involves a little elbow grease. But with these simple steps, you can extend the life of your metal cabinets and make them look like new again. The end result will be a kitchen updated at only a fraction of the cost of installing brand new cabinets.

Frequently Asked Questions About Restoring Metal Kitchen Cabinets

How do you clean old metal kitchen cabinets?

Use a degreasing cleaner or soap and water to thoroughly clean the cabinets. Pay close attention to corners, crevices and hinges where grease can build up. Dry completely afterwards.

What kind of paint is best for metal cabinets?

Oil-based enamel or a high quality cabinet paint works best for metal. Opt for satin or semi-gloss sheens. Apply several thin coats for a smooth finish.

Should you sand metal cabinets before painting?

Lightly sanding helps paint adhere better. Focus on any scratches, chips or problem areas. Be careful not to scuff the good existing finish.

What primer should be used on metal cabinets?

Use a primer specifically made for metal. Rust-inhibiting metal primers provide good protection. Allow primer to fully dry before painting.

What hardware looks best on metal cabinets?

Brushed nickel and chrome have a sleek, modern look. Black hardware makes a dramatic statement. Classic brass is a timeless choice. Mix and match for eclectic style.

Should you replace doors or paint metal cabinets?

If doors are damaged or dated, replacement doors in good condition can give a quick kitchen update. If doors are still functional, consider repainting for a new look.

How do you organize metal cabinet interiors?

Take the opportunity to add pull-out shelves, lazy susans, drawer organizers and other storage solutions. This maximizes usable space and creates an organized interior.

Conclusion

Updating dated metal kitchen cabinets doesn’t require a full remodel. With some cleaning, sanding, primer and a fresh coat of paint, metal cabinets can look like new again. Replacing hardware and interior fittings completes the transformation. With a little time invested, you can extend the life of your metal cabinets and breathe new life into your kitchen on a budget.