How to Stop on Old Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen renovations can be expensive, so many homeowners look for budget-friendly ways to update the look and feel of their kitchens without a full remodel. Refinishing or repainting old metal kitchen cabinets is an affordable way to give your kitchen a fresh, modern look. Here is a detailed guide on how to stop properly on old metal kitchen cabinets before painting or refinishing them.

Assess the Condition of Your Old Metal Cabinets

The first step is to thoroughly assess the current condition of your metal kitchen cabinets. Check for signs of rust, corrosion, dents, or other damage. Pay close attention to the edges, corners, and any decorative trim pieces for chips, cracks, or peeling paint. Also inspect the hinges and drawer slides to make sure they are still sturdy and functioning properly.

Make notes on any problem areas you find. You may need to do some minor metal repair work before proceeding with the painting or refinishing process. It’s also a good idea to clean the cabinets thoroughly to remove any grease buildup or grime.

Choose Between Painting vs Refinishing

Once you’ve audited the condition of your metal cabinets, decide whether you want to repaint them or refinish the existing surface.

Painting completely covers the old finish and allows you to dramatically change the color and look of your cabinets. It does require thorough surface preparation and often several coats of primer and paint.

Refinishing involves stripping the old finish, removing rust or flaws, and applying new clear topcoats to protect the natural metal surface. This maintains a metallic finish, though you can still lightly tint or stain the metal.

Consider factors like your budget, the existing cabinet finish, your color preferences, and how much time you want to devote to the project. Paint tends to be simpler for DIYers to tackle.

Clean and Remove Grease from Cabinet Surfaces

Before painting or refinishing, it’s critical to thoroughly clean and degrease your metal kitchen cabinets. Follow these steps:

• Remove all contents from the cabinets so you have easy access to all interior and exterior surfaces.
• Use a degreasing cleaner formulated for kitchens to remove any greasy residue. Apply with a sponge or scrub brush and let it soak for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing.
• Rinse surfaces thoroughly with clean water and let dry completely.
• Use a tack cloth to pick up any last traces of dust or debris.

It’s tempting to skip cleaning properly, but any oils or soils left on the metal will impede adhesion of new paint or finishes.

Sand Off Loose Paint and Rust

Once the metal is fully cleaned, your next step is to sand down any loose paint, rust spots, or surface corrosion. Here’s how to do it safely and effectively:

• Wear a N95 face mask to avoid inhaling fine metal dust particles. Safety goggles are also a good idea.
• Start with medium grit (120-150) sandpaper to remove larger flakes of paint and smooth rough areas.
• Finish sanding with a fine grit (220-400) to feather edges and create a smooth surface profile.
• Always sand in the direction of the metal grain to avoid new scratches.
• Use a vacuum sander attachment or damp rag to contain dust. Avoid dry sanding that allows dust to spread.
• Sand rusted areas until you expose clean, solid metal beneath.
• Spot prime any sanded rust spots with a metal primer immediately to prevent new rust.

Take your time with sanding – it’s the most important prep step for good paint adhesion.

Fill Holes and Repair Dents

Examine your cabinets for any holes, dents, or cracks that need filling before painting or refinishing. Here are some tips:

• For small holes or dents, use a metal putty designed for auto body repair. Follow package directions to fill holes and smooth when dry.
• Larger holes may require small metal patches secured with adhesive. Grind patches until flush.
• Use auto body filler products to fill any significant dents or gouges. Sand smooth when dry.
• If edges are misaligned, you may need to detach and resecure with new hardware.
• Cracks can be filled with thin metal epoxy. Remove excess before drying.
• Ensure all repairs are completely dry/cured before painting or finishing.

Properly filling any defects will help achieve a smooth finished surface.

Remove Doors and Hardware

Painting or refinishing cabinets is much easier if you detach the doors, drawers, and hardware first.

• Use a screwdriver to remove all hinges and handles from cabinet frames and doors. Place hardware together in a bag.
• Carefully lift off doors and set aside where they won’t get damaged.
• Remove drawers in the same fashion and set aside with doors.
• Number pieces with painter’s tape so you know which parts match up.
• Clean hardware with steel wool and mineral spirits. Avoid stripping any protective finishes.

With everything detached, you’ll be able to paint or finish the cabinet boxes, doors, and drawers separately and thoroughly.

Set Up Workspace and Ventilation

Whether using paint or refinishing products, you’ll need good ventilation, drop cloths, and a clean workspace.

• Work outside if possible, in an open garage, or near open windows. Running fans to exhaust fumes is a must.
• Cover the floor at least 10 feet around your workspace with drop cloths.
• Have all products, tools, rags, and other supplies ready to go in your workspace before starting.
• Wear an organic vapor respirator mask when applying finishes or using chemical strippers.
• Try to avoid working on windy days where dust can blow around.

Adequate ventilation and prep will allow you to work safely with paints, primers, strippers and other refinishing products.

prime Bare Metal Before Painting

If you’re repainting your metal kitchen cabinets, it’s mandatory to apply a coat of metal primer first.

The right primer will provide extra corrosion resistance and ensure paint bonds tightly to the metal surface. Applying primer also helps conceal small dents or scratches.

When selecting a primer for metal cabinets:

• Opt for an alkyd or oil-based primer over water-based for best adhesion on metal.
• Use a rust inhibiting primer if cabinets show any signs of rust or corrosion.
• Look for primers designed for galvanized metal, aluminum, or stainless steel.
• Choose a spray can primer for best consistency and an easier application process.

Thoroughly read and follow all label instructions for proper priming procedures. Allow the full recommended drying time before painting.

Paint Cabinets with Careful Technique

After proper priming, you’re ready to apply new paint to your outdated metal cabinets. Follow these tips for success:

Choose the Right Paint

• For metal, stick with alkyd/oil-based or acrylic enamel paints instead of latex. Oil paint sticks better and provides a harder finish.
• Opt for cabinet/trim paints or automotive finishes formulated for metal and hard wear.
• Purchase quality primer and paint from the same manufacturer for compatibility.
• Buy enough paint to fully cover cabinets with 2-3 coats as needed.

Set Up a Paint Station

• Use drop cloths and painters tape to mask off adjacent walls and counters.
• Have a range of disposable paint trays, angled brushes, mini rollers, and paint rags ready.
• Work in a dust-free space with adequate ventilation.

Apply Paint Meticulously

• Use angled trim brushes to neatly cut-in corners, edges, and detail work.
• Quickly follow by laying down smooth coats with short nap mini rollers.
• Work systematically from top to bottom, doing all cabinet face frames first, then sides, then doors.
• Allow full drying time between coats as recommended by manufacturer.
• Finish with at least two topcoats for a durable painted surface.
• Remove all painter’s tape before the last coat fully dries.

With careful prep work and painting technique, you can achieve a flawless and durable finish.

Refinish to Preserve Natural Metal

If you want to maintain the natural look of unpainted metal cabinets, refinishing is a great option. Here is a basic refinishing process:

Remove Existing Finish

• Use a chemical paint/finish remover to strip away old topcoat and expose bare metal.
• Scrub with an abrasive pad and rinse thoroughly when finish dissolves.
• Repeat stripping steps until all traces of old finish are gone.

Smooth and Shine Metal

• Sand away any remaining rust spots, tarnish, or flaws in the metal.
• Clean thoroughly then apply a metal polishing compound with a buffing wheel or by hand.
• Use very fine (600-800 grit) sandpaper to polish metal to a smooth sheen.

Apply Protective Topcoats

• Wipe down metal with mineral spirits then apply 1-2 coats of clear metal lacquer from a spray can.
• Allow proper drying time between coats.
• Optionally apply a beeswax paste as a final protective layer. Rub off excess wax.

Refinishing allows you to restore the original appearance of worn metal cabinets.

Work Safely Around Electrical

If your metal kitchen cabinets have built in lighting, under-cabinet outlets, or other wiring, take precautions when painting and refinishing:

• Completely disconnect power to lights or outlets at the main electrical panel.
• Test wires with a voltmeter before working to confirm power is off.
• Exercise extreme caution sanding or stripping around electrical components.
• Avoid spraying paint or finishes directly onto wiring, lights, or outlets. Mask these areas off.
• Reconnect all wiring once cabinets are fully dry before reinstalling doors, drawers, and hardware.

Electrical components require extra care to refinish safely. Consider hiring an electrician if you have any doubts.

Reinstall Doors, Drawers, and Hardware

Once your cabinets are fully painted or refinished, the last step is putting everything back together cleanly:

• Check all doors, drawer fronts, and boxes to ensure they are completely dry before reassembly.
• Attach hinges and slides in the original locations. Refer to numbering if needed.
• Use a carpenter’s square when rehanging doors to ensure they sit perfectly straight and even.
• Replace all handles and pulls snugly with a screwdriver.
• Adjust any hinges or slides so doors and drawers operate smoothly without rubbing.
• Do a final check that all moving parts function properly without sticking.
• Remove any leftover painter’s tape and wipe down surfaces to remove residue.

Take care in reassembly and your “new” metal kitchen cabinets will look amazing!

Maintain Your Refreshed Metal Cabinets

Here are some tips for keeping your newly painted or refinished metal kitchen cabinets looking like new:

• Allow paint or finish to fully cure for 30 days before cleaning. Use only mild soap and water initially.
• Avoid placing heat generating appliances like microwaves directly under painted cabinets.
• Use cutting boards to prevent knife scratches and dings.
• Immediately wipe up any water, grease or food spills.
• Wash cabinet exteriors periodically with mild soap and water.
• Reapply protective wax 1-2 times per year on refinished metal.
• Touch up paint scratches as needed to prevent rust and corrosion.

With proper care and maintenance, your updated metal cabinets will stay beautiful for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I paint over cabinets without removing old paint?

Removing loose paint through sanding provides the best surface for new paint adhesion. Trying to paint over intact paint often leads to the new paint chipping or peeling quickly. Proper prep is key.

How do I avoid brush marks when painting cabinets?

Use high quality trim paint brushes and mini rollers designed for smooth coatings. Work methodically in thin, even coats allowing proper drying between coats. Finishing with a foam roller can also help minimize brush marks.

What kind of paint sprayer is best for cabinets?

Airless paint sprayers allow you to apply thicker paint evenly and efficiently. Models that spray 0.013-0.015 tips work well for cabinet paint. Practice first before spraying finished cabinets.

Can I use wood filler on metal cabinets?

No, wood filler won’t adhere properly to metal. Use a metal putty made for auto body repair for small holes and dents in metal cabinets. Larger holes may require a metal patch.

How do I soften brass cabinet hardware before painting?

Wipe hardware down with mineral spirits to remove grime. Lightly scuff with fine (400 grit) sandpaper. Remove dust then spray with a clear acrylic sealant before painting. This helps paint adhere better.

Can I spray paint cabinet hinges instead of removing them?

It’s best to remove hinges completely to paint separately for full coverage. If you don’t want to remove them, carefully mask off areas around each hinge then spray paint them in place.

How long does it take for cabinet paint to cure?

Oil-based cabinet paints take around 7 days to fully cure while latex/acrylic may take up to 30 days to cure completely. Avoid cleaning with anything abrasive during this time.

Conclusion

Updating worn, dated metal kitchen cabinets doesn’t have to involve a full remodel. With some simple DIY techniques for prepping, painting, and refinishing, you can easily convert your old metal cabinets into a key feature of your modern kitchen makeover. Just be sure to thoroughly clean grime and grease from cabinet surfaces, sand away any rust or loose paint, and prime bare metal before painting or refinishing. Work carefully when painting using quality applicators, proper techniques, and ample drying time between coats. For refinishing, remove the existing topcoat completely then polish and protect the natural metal beneath. Finally, reinstall all doors, drawers, and hardware neatly once fully dry. With patience and care, you can affordably extend the life of your metal kitchen cabinets for years to come.