What Kind of Paint Should Be Used on Metal Cabinets?

Painting metal cabinets can update the look of your kitchen or bathroom. However, not all paints adhere well to metal surfaces. Choosing the right type of paint ensures proper adhesion and a long-lasting finish. Consider these tips on selecting paint for metal cabinets.

Prepare the Metal Surface

Proper preparation is key for good paint adhesion. Follow these steps:

• Clean the metal thoroughly with a degreaser to remove any oils or grime
• Sand the metal lightly with fine grit sandpaper to scuff up the surface
• Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth
• Apply a primer made for metal before painting

Priming gives the topcoat paint something to “grab” onto. A quality metal primer will provide maximum adhesion.

Choose the Right Kind of Paint

Certain types of paint are formulated to better adhere to slick metal. Consider these options:

Oil-Based Enamel

Enamel paint provides a hard, glossy finish. The oil base allows enamel to adhere very well to metals. Enamel dries slowly but the result is a smooth, durable finish. Use enamel for exterior metal surfaces like garden furniture or railings.

Alkyd Paint

Alkyd paint contains resins that form a flexible coating. It sticks well to metals and other slick surfaces. Alkyd paint dries faster than enamel but provides good coverage and durability. It’s a good choice for indoor metal cabinets and shelving.

Acrylic Latex Paint

Look for acrylic latex paints made specifically for adhesion to metal and other hard-to-stick-to surfaces. Some contain bonding additives to help the paint grab onto metal. Acrylic latex paint dries fast and resists chipping and cracking. Use for indoor metal cabinets or furniture.

Rust-Preventative Paint

For rusted metal surfaces, use a paint designed to halt existing rust and prevent future corrosion. Rust-inhibitive primers convert rust into a paintable surface. Top coat with a rust-resistant paint. Follow the manufacturer’s directions closely when using rust-preventative paints.

Other Application Tips

• Apply paint in thin, even coats allowing proper drying time between coats. Multiple thin coats look better than one thick coat.
• If spraying paint, keep the spray nozzle perpendicular to the surface and spray from the same distance away for even coverage.
• For a smooth finish on cabinets, gently sand between coats with very fine (220-grit or higher) sandpaper.
• Allow paint to cure fully before use, up to 2 weeks for oil-based paints. Open cabinets carefully at first to prevent sticking.

Proper prep work, priming, and the right paint for metal will ensure your cabinets or furniture get a durable and beautiful painted finish. Take your time and follow application directions. The end result will be a professional-looking paint job that lasts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Painting Metal Cabinets

Should I clean metal cabinets before painting?

Yes, it is important to thoroughly clean metal cabinets prior to painting. Remove any dirt, grease, or oils using a degreasing cleaner. This helps the paint adhere properly. Lightly sanding also improves adhesion.

What kind of primer should I use on metal?

Use a high-quality metal primer formulated for maximum adhesion before painting metal cabinets. The primer coat gives the topcoat paint something to bond to. Avoid general all-purpose primers.

How many coats of paint do metal cabinets need?

Typically 2-3 thin, even coats of paint properly adheres to metal cabinets. Allow proper drying time between coats as directed by the paint manufacturer, often 24 hours. Additional coats may be needed for very dark paint colors to achieve full opacity.

Should I sand metal cabinets between paint coats?

Lightly sanding metal cabinets with fine (220-grit) sandpaper between coats of paint results in a smooth finish. This helps remove any drips or rough spots in the previous coat. Be very gentle to avoid scratching down to the primer.

What’s the best way to spray paint metal cabinets?

Use thin, even passes with the spray nozzle perpendicular to the surface and from a fixed distance for uniform coverage when spray painting metal cabinets. Avoid concentrating spray in one spot which can result in drips. Allow proper drying time between coats.

How soon can I use painted metal cabinets?

Oil-based enamels may take up to 2 weeks to fully cure. Open painted cabinets gently at first to avoid sticking. Acrylic latex paints fully cure in 1-2 days. Wait at least 24 hours before regular use of painted metal cabinets.

What causes paint to peel off metal cabinets?

Improper surface preparation and insufficient drying time between coats can lead to peeling paint on metal cabinets. Using the wrong type of primer or paint that lacks proper adhesion properties for metal can also be causes.

Conclusion

With the right preparation and paint formulated for metal surfaces, you can achieve a fresh new look for outdated metal cabinets. Degrease and prime the cabinets first. Then apply at least two coats of enamel, alkyd, acrylic latex, or rust-preventative paint in thin layers. Proper drying time and gently sanding between coats results in a smooth finish. Your painted metal cabinets will maintain their durable, attractive look for years to come.