How to Spruce Up Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Looking for ways to refresh your metal kitchen cabinets without a full remodel? With some simple upgrades and DIY projects, you can give your existing metal cabinets a brand new look for a fraction of the cost. This comprehensive guide covers all the best tips, tricks and techniques for sprucing up tired metal kitchen cabinets to make them look like new again.

Clean Cabinets Thoroughly

The first step in any kitchen cabinet refresh is to thoroughly clean the cabinets inside and out. Build up of grease, dirt and grime can make even the nicest cabinets look dingy.

Start by emptying out all cabinets and drawers completely. Remove any shelf liner and wash all interior surfaces with a degreasing cleaner or mix of warm water and dish soap. For exterior cabinet surfaces, use a multipurpose cleaning spray and microfiber cloths to remove fingerprints, splatters and dust.

Pay close attention to handles and hardware, using a small brush or toothpick to clean grime from crevices. Rinse surfaces well and let cabinets dry completely before moving onto next steps.

Remove Cabinets and Hardware

To fully refresh metal kitchen cabinets, it helps to remove them for easier access. Taking doors, drawers and hardware off allows you to clean the boxes more thoroughly and paint/finish without taping off.

Before removing anything, take photos of your current configuration so it’s easier to reinstall hardware correctly after. Number cabinets and doors with painters tape to keep them in order.

Use a screwdriver to detach hinges, handles and knobs. For doors that won’t detach, unscrew hinge plates from cabinet face frames. Use caution when removing doors, drawers and hardware to avoid damages.

Set hardware aside in a bag or bin for safekeeping. Clean all detached surfaces with degreaser, rinse and let dry completely before refinishing.

Sand Away Imperfections

Once disassembled, inspect cabinet surfaces closely for any scratches, chips, dents or other flaws. Use 220 grit sandpaper to smooth away any imperfections in the metal.

Focus on problem areas but lightly sand entire faces too for better paint/finish adhesion. Use a tack cloth after sanding to remove all dust before priming or painting.

Prime Cabinets

Priming is an essential step before painting metal cabinets, helping paint stick smoothly and preventing future chipping or peeling. Use a high quality metal primer specifically formulated for smooth application and adhesion on slick metal surfaces.

Before priming, wipe sanded cabinets with a damp microfiber cloth to remove any residual dust. Apply a thin first coat according to primer directions, usually with a high density foam roller. Let dry completely.

Sand lightly with 320 grit sandpaper before applying a second primer coat for a flawless foundation. Sand again lightly after second coat dries. Tack off dust before painting.

Paint Cabinets

With cabinets primed and prepped, it’s time for the fun part – choosing a new color! For metal kitchen cabinets, opt for oil or enamel cabinet paint for the most durable and long-lasting finish.

Pick a color that complements your existing kitchen finishes rather than one that matches exactly. Neutral and natural tones like grays, greens and blues are timeless options.

As with priming, apply paint in thin, even coats using a high density foam roller and angled brush for corners and edges. Allow ample drying time between coats according to paint directions.

Finish with 3-4 total coats for complete coverage and a smooth finish. Replace doors, drawers and hardware after paint fully cures in 1-2 weeks.

Stain or Finish Cabinets

For a natural metal look, staining or clear-coating is an option. As with paint, proper prep is key to success.

Clean and lightly sand cabinets to ensure finish adheres and smooths evenly. Use solvent to wipe away any residue or oil on metal.

Consider a conversion coating to help metal properly accept and retain stain. Apply gel stains in thin layers using a foam brush or lint-free cloth, wiping away excess.

For a clear coat metal finish, opt for a spray lacquer, brushing varnish or penetrating oil specifically for metal. Apply thin coats, drying well between each. Lightly sand and recoat as needed to level and smooth.

Replace Doors and Drawers

If your existing cabinet doors and drawers are damaged or dated, replacing them is an affordable way to refresh the look. New drawer fronts and doors can make old cabinets seem brand new.

Order replacement doors and drawers to fit your existing cabinet boxes from a kitchen supply store or home improvement center. Opt for ready-to-install styles to make the process easier.

Carefully measure existing doors and drawer fronts to match sizes and configurations when ordering replacements. Install new hardware for a fully updated look.

Add New Hardware

Replacing outdated hardware with modern handles and knobs is a simple upgrade with a big impact. Dated brass and plastic knobs date kitchen cabinets quickly.

Remove existing hardware and clean cabinets doors and drawers so they are grease-free for better adhesion. Browse hardware stores and online catalogs for inspiration before purchasing new knobs and pulls.

Opt for satin nickel or matte black for a contemporary look, or brushed brass for more traditional style. Measure screw holes on existing doors and drawers and buy hardware to match.

Freshen Interiors

Don’t forget about cabinet interiors when sprucing up kitchen cabinets. New shelf liner and organizational accessories give the inside a quick makeover too.

Replace old shelf liner with fresh contact paper or liner to camouflage scuffs and stains. Use removable vinyl for rentals. Clean shelves before applying new liner.

Consider adding pull-out shelves, lazy susans and other accessories to maximize storage and access. Update interior lighting with battery operated LED puck lights to illuminate the inside.

Refinish Exterior Surfaces

In addition to paint and stain, consider refinishing metal cabinets to change the look. New finishes like laminate, tile, veneer or thermofoil adhere over existing cabinet surfaces.

Thoroughly clean and scuff sand metal cabinets to prep for new finishes. Apply adhesive and overlays according to product directions for long-lasting results. Use a router for edges.

Choose finishes that complement your kitchen style – go for wood veneers or laminates in traditional spaces or ceramic tile for a more modern look.

Update with Chalkboard Paint

Chalkboard paint adds a fun, custom element to plain metal cabinets. Use on an entire face or just a portion to create a unique focal point.

Lightly sand and clean cabinets before applying 2-3 thin, even coats of chalkboard paint, drying between each application. Topcoat with polyurethane for durability.

Create framed boxes, stripes or geometric designs with painter’s tape before painting. Remove tape just after final coat – don’t let it dry!

Add Trim Molding

Trim molding gives boring, boxy cabinets more character and dimension. Choose wide, decorative molding for maximum impact.

Measure cabinets and cut molding pieces to fit using a miter saw. Pre-drill holes to avoid splitting. Fill any gaps with wood filler before installing with finishing nails.

For a built-in look, opt for crown molding installed near the top of wall cabinets. Trim headers and cabinet fronts to define each piece.

Install New Backsplash

An updated backsplash does wonders to refresh a kitchen. Self-adhesive tile, metal or peel-and-stick wallpaper backsplash easily covers existing.

Thoroughly clean the wall behind cabinets before installing any new backsplash. Use caulk in any gaps or uneven areas for a smooth finish.

Use a straight edge and utility knife to cut self-adhesive backsplash tiles or sheets to fit. Take care removing backing and pressing against wall for strong adhesion.

Add Glass Doors

Glass door inserts give metal cabinets a lighter, more open appearance. DIY kits make installation fairly easy.

Measure existing doors carefully before ordering replacement glass door kits. Custom sizing is available. Kits include new hinges too.

Follow provided directions to remove original doors, then attach adapters and new doors to existing cabinet frames. Adjust hinges for proper alignment.

Install Shiplap

Shiplap brings a light, airy farmhouse feel to dated metal cabinets in any style kitchen. The wood adds warmth and dimension.

Cut 1×6 pine boards to fit cabinet sides and faces. Prime, then paint or stain boards to desired finish. Drill pilot holes every 16 inches.

Use painter’s tape to align and space boards evenly apart. Attach with finish nails every 16 inches. Fill holes with wood putty; sand and finish.

Add Cabinet Frames

Building a simple face frame gives flat metal cabinets the appearance of a custom built-in look. DIY frames can be adapted to any size or shape cabinet.

Measure cabinets and cut 1×2 boards with mitered corners to create frames that wrap around cabinet faces. Use wood glue and nails or screws to assemble.

Stain, prime or paint frames to match cabinet color and finish before mounting on cabinets with finishing nails or screws. Fill holes and finish.

Questions and Answers

Here are some common questions and answers about sprucing up metal kitchen cabinets:

How do I get rid of rust on my metal kitchen cabinets?

To remove rust from metal cabinets, use a wire brush or sandpaper to scrape off loose rust. Wipe with white vinegar or a rust removal solution. For stubborn spots, apply a rust converter before priming and painting.

What kind of paint adheres best to metal cabinets?

Look for cabinet paint or enamel spray paint formulated especially for metal. Oil and alkyd-based paints also have good adhesion on slick metal surfaces after proper priming.

What should I use to clean greasy metal kitchen cabinets?

Grease-cutting dish soap or degreaser cleaning solutions help cut through built up grime on metal cabinet surfaces. A multipurpose cleaner sprayed on and wiped off also works to remove grease and fingerprints.

What are some budget-friendly ways to update metal cabinets?

Some affordable options to refresh metal kitchen cabinets include replacing hardware, adding new liner and organization accessories, chalkboard paint, applying self-adhesive tile backsplash or wallpaper, painting interiors a bright color, or attaching trim molding to doors and drawer fronts.

Should I take doors off cabinets to paint them?

Yes, removing doors, drawers and hardware allows for easier painting and access to cabinet interiors for cleaning. Make sure to label and keep hardware organized for reinstallation.

How do I get a smooth painted finish on metal cabinets?

Proper prep and priming are key for a smooth paint finish on metal cabinets. Thoroughly clean and scuff sand prior to priming with 2-3 coats of a quality metal primer, sanding between coats. Then apply 3-4 thin coats of cabinet paint, allowing ample drying time between coats.

What kind of primer should be used on metal cabinets?

It’s best to use a specialty metal primer formulated for maximum adhesion on slick metal surfaces. Etching primers also work well for preparing metal cabinets for paint.

What are some ways to make my metal cabinets look more custom?

Installing trim molding, new hardware, glass door inserts, shiplap or cabinet face frames can make stock metal cabinets look more high-end and customized. Refinishing or painting the cabinets to match your kitchen colors also helps.

Conclusion

With some creativity and DIY spirit, it’s simple to give dull, dated metal kitchen cabinets new life. Refinishing, painting, replacing doors and hardware, adding glass doors or trim accents and installing new backsplash are all affordable ways to completely transform ordinary metal cabinets. Use the tips and techniques in this guide to spruce up your metal kitchen cabinets with beautiful, custom results on a budget.