What is the Best Paint for Metal Cabinets?

Painting metal cabinets can update the look of your kitchen or bathroom. With the right prep work and paint, you can give worn cabinets a fresh, new finish. When selecting the best paint for metal cabinets, there are a few key factors to consider.

Types of Paint for Metal Cabinets

There are three main options when choosing paint for metal cabinets:

Oil-Based Paint

Oil-based paints provide excellent adhesion and a durable finish on metal surfaces. The downside is they contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and require mineral spirits for cleanup.

Water-Based Acrylic Paint

Acrylic paints made for metal contain resins that allow them to stick well to slick surfaces. They dry faster than oils and clean up with soap and water. However, acrylics are less durable than oil-based paints.

Enamel Paint

Enamels provide a glossy, factory-like finish. Modern water-based enamel paints made specifically for metal provide the best of both worlds – good adhesion, durability, and easy cleanup.

Preparing Metal Cabinets for Painting

Proper prep is crucial for getting paint to adhere to metal. Here are the key steps:

• Clean the cabinets thoroughly with a degreaser or TSP substitute to remove any oils or residue.
• Sand the metal lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to rough up the surface and help the paint adhere.
• Apply a dedicated metal primer before painting. Primers improve paint adhesion.
• For best results, opt for a primer made specifically for metal such as Rust-Oleum’s Metal Primer.
• Fill any holes or imperfections with spackle and sand smooth.

Best Paints for Metal Cabinets

Here are some top paint options for achieving a professional look:

Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations

This all-in-one kit lets you prep, prime, paint and top coat metal cabinets easily. It levels to a smooth finish and includes decorative glazing for a custom look. The water-based formula resists chipping and fading.

Benjamin Moore Advance

This interior alkyd enamel paint levels smoothly with a hard, high-gloss finish. It adheres well to metals and resists yellowing over time. The water cleanup is a big plus.

Sherwin-Williams ProClassic Waterbased Acrylic-Alkyd

This interior-exterior enamel paint bonds tightly to metals with excellent flow and leveling. It dries to a durable, protective finish with full hardness in 5-7 days.

Krylon Fusion All-In-One

This spray paint for metal simplifies projects with a built-in primer and finish in one can. It dries in 10 minutes with no drips and provides max rust protection.

Application Tips

Follow these tips for a flawless painted metal finish:

• Opt for high-quality synthetic brushes made for smooth coatings.
• Use a mini foam roller for any large, flat areas. Load it lightly and roll slowly.
• Apply in thin, even coats allowing proper drying time between coats.
• Lightly sand between coats for maximum adhesion.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dry time and topcoat application.
• Work in a dust-free area to prevent debris in the fresh paint.

Caring for Painted Metal Cabinets

With proper care, your painted metal cabinets can maintain their freshly updated look for years. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Allow the paint to cure fully, generally 7-14 days. Avoid cleaning the cabinets during this time.
• Use only light pressure when cleaning painted cabinets. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
• Clean spills right away with a soft cloth and mild soap and water.
• Reapply a fresh coat of paint periodically as needed to cover nicks and refresh the color.

Painting metal cabinets is an affordable way to update the look of a kitchen or bath without replacing the existing cabinetry. With the right preparatory steps and paint selection, you can achieve professional-quality results. Invest in a premium metal-specific paint product and take time with the surface preparation for long-lasting beauty and protection.

Frequently Asked Questions About Painting Metal Cabinets

What is the best paint for metal cabinets?

The best paints for metal cabinets are oil-based paint, water-based acrylic paint made specifically for metal, and water-based enamel paint. Oil-based provides the most durable finish but requires mineral spirits for cleanup. Acrylics made for metal offer good adhesion, while enamels give a glossy, factory finish.

What kind of primer do you use on metal cabinets?

It’s best to use a dedicated metal primer when painting metal cabinets for maximum adhesion. Common options include Rust-Oleum Metal Primer and Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer. Make sure to lightly sand the metal before applying primer.

How do you prepare metal cabinets for painting?

To prepare metal cabinets for painting, thoroughly clean with a degreaser, lightly sand to rough up the surface, apply a metal primer, fill any imperfections with spackle, and sand smooth. Proper prep helps the paint adhere evenly and prevents flaking or peeling.

Should you remove doors and hardware before painting cabinets?

Yes, it’s best to remove cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware before painting metal cabinets. This allows you to fully paint the cabinet boxes and provides easier access to paint the door fronts and sides evenly. Lay doors flat on sawhorses to paint.

How long does it take for painted metal cabinets to cure?

Painted metal cabinets take longer to fully cure than wood cabinets. Oil-based paints may take up to 30 days to cure, while latex and acrylic paints can take 7-14 days to cure before exposing them to heavy use or frequent cleaning.

Conclusion

Painting metal kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and storage locker cabinets is an easy DIY project that can update the look of your space. With proper preparation, priming, and the use of paints designed specifically for slick metal surfaces, you can achieve professional-quality results. Investing in a premium metal paint will provide superior adhesion, leveling, durability, and long-lasting beauty. Just be sure to allow sufficient drying and curing time before regular use and cleaning of your newly painted metal cabinets.