What Kind of Paint to Use on Metal Cabinets

Painting metal cabinets can transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom. With the right paint and proper preparation, you can give dated metal cabinets a fresh, updated appearance. Here is a detailed guide on what kind of paint to use for painting metal cabinets.

Introduction

Metal kitchen and bathroom cabinets were very popular in the 1950s-1980s. While durable, the enamel finishes on metal cabinets tend to yellow, crack, or peel over time. Painting metal cabinets allows you to inexpensively update the look of your kitchen or bath in just a weekend.

When selecting a paint for metal cabinets, you need a formulation that will adhere well and hold up over time. The wrong paint may chip, scratch, or peel. With proper prep and the right paint, your painted metal cabinets can look great for years.

What Kind of Paint Adheres Best to Metal Cabinets?

When researching what kind of paint to use on metal cabinets, you generally have two good options:

Oil-Based Paint

Oil-based or alkyd enamel paints provide a hard, glossy finish that adheres very well to slick metal surfaces. Oil paint dries slower than latex, but it levels nicely to create a smooth finish. The downside is that oil paint emits strong fumes and requires mineral spirits for cleanup.

Acrylic Latex Paint

For a low-odor, water-cleanup paint for metal cabinets, acrylic latex formulas work well. Look for 100% acrylic or vinyl-acrylic paints. The acrylic resins allow the paint to flex as the metal cabinets expand and contract. Latex dries more quickly than oil and comes in various sheens from flat to high-gloss.

For most DIYers, a high-quality 100% acrylic latex formulated for metal is the best choice. The key is proper prep and primer to help the latex paint stick.

Prep Tips for Painting Metal Cabinets

Proper prep is crucial when painting metal cabinets for long-lasting results. Here are some tips:

• Clean the cabinets thoroughly with a degreaser to remove any residue.
• Lightly scuff the surface with 220 grit sandpaper to rough up the slick enamel.
• Remove doors and hardware for easier painting. Clean hinges to remove grease buildup.
• Use painters tape and drop cloths to protect nearby surfaces from drips.
• Fill any scratches or chips with metal filler compound and sand smooth.

Priming metal before painting is essential. A quality metal primer will provide maximum adhesion.

Best Primers for Painting Metal Cabinets

Two excellent options for priming metal cabinets are:

• Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Metal Primer
• Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Water-Based Primer

These industrial-strength primers coat slick metal surfaces to help the paint grab on and last. Apply two coats of metal primer, allowing proper drying time between coats. Once fully cured, the primer provides a surface acrylic paint can adhere to.

Top Paints for Metal Cabinets

When researching what kind of paint to use on metal cabinets, consider these top-rated acrylic latex paints:

• Benjamin Moore Advance – Alkyd-enhanced acrylic, available in multiple sheens
• Sherwin Williams ProClassic – Hard-wearing acrylic great for cabinets
• Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations – All-in-one kit includes primer and paint
• Behr Premium Cabinet & Trim – 100% acrylic paint with excellent hide and durability
• PPG Breakthrough – Fast-drying acrylic cabinet paint, low VOCs

No matter which brand you choose, select a 100% acrylic formulation. Oil-based alkyds also work well if you don’t mind the stronger odor. Stick with satin, semi-gloss, or high-gloss sheens for durability and easy cleaning.

Application Tips for Painting Metal Cabinets

Follow these tips for getting the best results painting metal cabinets:

• Use a high-quality nylon/polyester brush for oil-based paints, and a synthetic bristle brush for latex paint.
• Roll on an even coat using a short nap roller sleeve. Brush paint into recesses.
• Maintain a wet edge and paint systematically to avoid lap marks.
• Allow proper drying times between coats as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Lightly sand between coats to smooth and remove any imperfections.
• Apply at least two finish coats of cabinet paint for complete coverage and durability.
• Work in a dust-free area to minimize contamination in the finish coat.

Curing and Care

Oil-based paints cure harder and faster than latex. Latex paint takes up to 30 days to fully cure and harden. Avoid cleaning or replacing hardware during this time. Careful use and gentle cleaning will maintain the finish.

Results to Expect From Painted Metal Cabinets

With proper products and techniques, you can expect painted metal cabinets to have:

• A smooth, consistent finish without brush marks or imperfections
• Maximum paint adhesion that resists chipping or peeling
• Enhanced visual appeal from an updated color and sheen
• Added value by improving the look of dated metal cabinets
• Extended life of cabinets since paint protects from rust and wear

Conclusion

Painting metal kitchen or bathroom cabinets allows you to inexpensively update their look and color. With the right preparation, primer, and paint, plus good application techniques, you can achieve professional-looking results. Investing some time upfront in proper prep work helps ensure the painted finish will have long-lasting durability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of paint to use on metal cabinets for the best adhesion?

For metal cabinets, oil-based and 100% acrylic latex paints adhere best. Make sure to use a primer specifically formulated for metal before painting for maximum adhesion.

Can you use regular latex paint on metal cabinets?

We don’t recommend using a basic wall paint on metal cabinets. For good adhesion, use a high-quality 100% acrylic latex paint made specifically for painting metal, or an oil-based alkyd enamel.

What sheen is best for painted metal cabinets?

Popular sheen options for metal kitchen or bathroom cabinets are satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss. These provide added durability and allow for easy cleaning.

How do you prepare metal cabinets before painting?

Proper prep is crucial. Clean thoroughly, scuff sand to rough up the surface, remove doors and hardware, fill dents/chips, and use a dedicated metal primer before painting.

Should metal cabinets be primed before painting?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to use a primer formulated specifically for metal before painting cabinets. The primer coats the slick metal surface so the paint can bond tightly.