What Kind of Paint to Use on Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Choosing the right paint for your metal kitchen cabinets can seem overwhelming, with so many options available. The key is finding a paint that will adhere well and provide a durable, long-lasting finish. Here’s an in-depth look at the best types of paint for metal kitchen cabinets.

Sand and Prime for the Best Results

Proper preparation is crucial for a paint job that withstands the wear and tear of a kitchen. Lightly sand metal cabinets with fine sandpaper to rough up the surface so the paint can grip better. Then apply a high-quality primer formulated especially for metal. Priming gives the topcoat paint something to bind to.

Oil-Based Enamel Paint

Oil-based enamel paint, also called alkyd enamel, provides the most hardwearing finish for metal kitchen cabinets. The oils allow the paint to flex as the metal expands and contracts without cracking or chipping. Enamel paint dries to a glossy, durable surface that stands up well to cleaning. Darker colors like black or navy showcase the smooth finish. The downside is enamel paint takes longer to dry and has a strong odor during application.

Acrylic Latex Paint

For a lower odor, faster drying paint, acrylic latex is a good choice for refinishing metal cabinets. Acrylic latex paint is water-based, making clean up with soap and water easy. It adheres well to primed metal and dries in about an hour. Acrylic latex paint holds up fairly well to cleaning and abrasion. Just avoid darker hues, which tend to show scuffs. Opt for a satin or semi-gloss sheen for durability and easy wipe-downs.

High-Performance Urethane Paint

Top-quality urethane paints offer performance approaching automotive finishes. Urethane paints contain resins that flex with temperature changes to prevent cracking and chipping. They provide excellent adhesion and a durable finish for metal kitchen cabinets. Oil-based urethanes yellow less than water-based options. The intense shine of high-gloss urethane paint makes metal surfaces gleam. Just be aware that urethane paints have a strong solvent odor during application. Proper ventilation is a must.

Chalk Paint Creates a Matte Look

For a smooth, matte painted finish on metal cabinets, chalk paint is a top choice. The flat, velvety look highlights the texture of metal. Chalk paint adheres well to surfaces without sanding or priming. Just scuff up the metal lightly before painting. The matte finish hides fingerprints and smudges. Chalk paint does require a protective topcoat of wax or polyurethane for durability. Soft, muted colors suit the subtle look of chalk paint.

Heat-Resistant Paint for Exposed Areas

Parts of metal cabinets near heat sources like ovens and cooktops require paints formulated for high heat tolerance. Look for silicone or enamel paints made specifically for surfaces reaching temperatures up to 500°F to 600°F. High-temperature paint prevents discoloring, bubbling, or peeling near heat. Use it on cabinet exteriors, doors, and drawers near cooking surfaces.

Ask Experts for Recommendations

With so many cabinet paint options on the market, it helps to ask the experts. Paint store employees can recommend the best primer, topcoat, and paint brands for painting metal kitchen cabinets based on your needs. They know the properties of each paint and what prepares metal surfaces most effectively. Experienced paint retailers are invaluable resources for choosing the optimal system.

Prioritize Quality Paint for Durability

Paint quality plays a huge role in metal cabinet finishes. Invest in top-tier cabinet enamels, urethanes, or lacquers from reputable brands like Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, BEHR, Rustoleum, and Krylon. Better paint contains more solids, which add durability and a smoother finish. Cheap paint may save money initially but won’t last as long or look as good. Don’t cut corners on paint for long-lasting metal cabinet finishes.

Test Paint Choices on Interior Surfaces

It’s wise to test different paints on the interior surfaces of your metal cabinets before committing to repainting exteriors. Try small swatches of two or three top contenders. Allow them to fully cure, then intentionally create wear by scrubbing painted areas with an abrasive sponge. See which paint stands up best to cleaning and scratching before you repaint the entire kitchen.

Consider a Professional for Best Results

Painting metal kitchen cabinets requires meticulous surface preparation and careful application for successful results. If you don’t have painting experience, consider hiring a professional painter. They have the skills to adeptly apply cabinet paints like urethanes and enamels that brush on smoothly without drips. Professionals also have specialized spray equipment to achieve seamless finishes not possible with rollers. Their expertise yields polished, long-lasting painted cabinets.

Maintain Cabinets Properly Post Painting

No paint lasts forever, especially under heavy use in a kitchen. But you can maximize the lifespan of painted metal cabinets with proper care. Allow paint to cure fully before regular use, about two weeks for enamels and urethanes. Clean painted surfaces only with recommended cleaners, avoid abrasive scrubbing, and promptly clean up any spills. With careful maintenance, your painted metal cabinets will shine for many years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of primer should I use on metal cabinets?

For best adhesion, use a primer specifically made for painting metal surfaces. Rust-inhibiting metal primers provide maximum corrosion resistance and grip. Etching primers chemically bond to metal for extra staying power.

What sheen is best for kitchen cabinets?

Kitchens require paint with some sheen to make them easy to clean. Satin, semi-gloss, and gloss enamel paints are ideal sheens for metal cabinets. They offer good wipeability while minimizing visible brush strokes. Flat paints stain too easily for heavy kitchen use.

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

Thorough sanding, high-fill primer, and multiple thin coats of quality paint lead to the smoothest finish. Spraying paint on metal cabinets helps avoid brush marks. Sand lightly between coats for a seamless look.

What kind of paint adheres best to metal?

Oil-based alkyd enamels, urethanes, and epoxies form a strong mechanical bond with metal surfaces, adhering better than water-based options. Make sure to prep metal properly and apply compatible primer first.

Should I paint the inside of metal cabinets?

It’s usually not essential, but interior cabinet paint will provide extra protection from humidity and food spills. Use heat-resistant paint for surfaces near cooking appliances. Quick-drying cabinet enamels simplify interior painting.

Conclusion

From ultra-durable enamels to heat-resistant high temp paints, many excellent options exist for painting metal kitchen cabinets. Proper prep and primer establish a strong foundation for long-lasting paint adhesion. Combining sound techniques with the highest quality paints suited to metal surfaces results in a flawless, resilient finish that keeps your cabinets looking freshly painted for years of beauty and function in your kitchen.