What Paint to Use on a Metal Filing Cabinet

Choosing the right paint for a metal filing cabinet can seem daunting, but with some basic knowledge about metal paints and preparation, you can achieve a smooth, protective, and great-looking finish. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through all the factors to consider when deciding what paint to use on a metal filing cabinet.

Introduction

Metal filing cabinets are a staple of offices and home offices everywhere. Over time, metal surfaces can show wear and tear, scratches, dents, and rust. Painting a metal filing cabinet can give it a facelift, while also adding a protective barrier against future damage.

When preparing to paint a metal filing cabinet, there are several considerations:

• Type of Metal – Most filing cabinets are made of steel, but some may be aluminum. Identifying the metal type will determine the proper primer and paint to use.
• Condition of Metal – The existing condition of the metal will dictate the amount of sanding and cleaning required prior to painting. Flaking paint or rust will need more attention.
• Type of Paint – Factors like color, sheen, and durability help select latex or oil-based paints. Specialty metal paint may be required.
• Surface Preparation – For good adhesion, the metal must be sanded, cleaned, primed and potentially etched prior to painting.
• Environment – Consider the cabinet’s environment – humidity, sun exposure, potential for scratches – when choosing metal paint.

By understanding metal characteristics, assessing the current state of the filing cabinet, and identifying the desired results, it becomes much easier to decide what paint is optimal for the project. Keep reading for more details!

Determine the Type of Metal

Filing cabinets are typically made from steel or aluminum, so first you must identify which type of metal you are working with.

Steel is by far the most common. Standard cold-rolled steel comprises most modern filing cabinets. It contains small amounts of carbon and additional alloys like manganese, phosphorus and sulfur.

Some older style filing cabinets may be made from galvanized steel. This means the steel is coated with a thin layer of zinc to provide corrosion resistance. The galvanized coating must be addressed before painting.

Aluminum filing cabinets are rarer but are appreciated for being lightweight, durable, and rust-resistant. Pure aluminum can be painted, but many aluminum alloys contain properties that make adhesion difficult.

Once you’ve determined the metal, you can assess the appropriate paint. Steel takes a wider variety of paints, while aluminum is more finicky.

How to Identify the Type of Metal

Check documentation – Any paperwork or manufacturer labels that came with the filing cabinet may identify the type of metal used.

Magnet test – Use a magnet over different parts of the cabinet. If the magnet sticks, the cabinet is steel. Aluminum is non-magnetic.

Scratch test – Use a screwdriver to gently scratch an inconspicuous area. If the scratch reveals a silver metal beneath, it is likely aluminum. Steel scratches will show a gray/black metal.

Weight – Aluminum filing cabinets will be noticeably lighter in weight if you have the ability to move the cabinet. Steel is heavier.

Rust – Aluminum does not visibly rust. Any signs of rust indicate the cabinet is made of steel.

Once you’ve identified the metal, you can move onto assessing the condition of the surface.

Evaluate the Condition of the Metal

The existing state of the metal filing cabinet will have a significant impact on your painting preparation process. Here are some things to inspect closely:

Check for Rust

Rust occurs when steel reacts with oxygen in the presence of water, creating iron oxide. Rust appears as reddish-orange flaky deposits and small pits on the steel surface. Even minor rusting should be thoroughly removed, as it can continue spreading under paint if left untouched.

Sanding, scraping and commercial rust removers are used to get rid of rust prior to painting metal. Rust converter chemicals can also be applied to stabilize rust and prevent further corrosion.

Aluminum does not rust, but it can become oxidized over time. This appears as pitting, whitish powder, or dull splotches on the surface. Fine sandpaper or an abrasive scrubber can remove aluminum oxidation.

Assess Paint Condition

If the metal filing cabinet has been previously painted, examine the existing paint for any damage:

• Flaking/Peeling – Peeling paint must be completely removed before repainting. Use a paint scraper, putty knife, wire brush, or sandpaper to strip the damaged paint.
• Scratches/Nicks – Lightly sand any scratches in the paint to smooth them out. Deep scratches exposing the metal underneath will need a rust inhibiting primer.
• Fading – Faded paint may need to be entirely removed if the new paint color is significantly different. Painting over faded paint with a darker color is difficult.
• Stains/Discoloration – Stains can bleed through new paint. Discoloration may require extra priming to block it out. Removing all existing paint often yields the best results.

Check for Dents and Damage

Small dents are common on used file cabinets and generally won’t impact painting. Larger dents or holes will collect paint unevenly and become obvious under the new color. For a flawless finish, filling dents and damage with autobody filler before painting is recommended.

Evaluate Overall Surface Condition

Determine if small touch-ups are sufficient, or if removing all the existing paint down to bare metal is necessary before repainting the filing cabinet. This helps set expectations for the amount of work required.

Assess whether the current condition allows for proper paint adhesion. Peeling, bubbling, rust and damage can interfere with paint bonding correctly to the metal. Always aim to create the smoothest, cleanest surface possible.

Choose Between Latex or Oil-Based Metal Paint

Once you’ve assessed the metal type and surface condition, next decide on oil or latex paint. Each has pros and cons for metal filing cabinet projects.

Key Differences

• Ingredients – Latex paint uses water as a base while oil paint uses solvents. Oil-based paints contain higher VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
• Drying Time – Latex dries more quickly, within 30 minutes to a few hours. Oil painting drying times take 24 hours to a few days.
• Cleanup – Latex cleans up with soap and water. Oil paint requires mineral spirits or paint thinner.
• Odor – Latex has a mild odor compared to strong solvent smells from oil-based paints.
• Gloss – Oil-based paints produce glossier, smoother finishes. Latex tends to be less shiny.
• Durability – Oil paint stands up to scrapes, fingerprints and weathering better than latex.
• Cost – Oil paint is generally more expensive than latex equivalents.

When to Use Latex Paint

Latex, or acrylic-based paint, works well for filing cabinets in certain conditions:

• Interior cabinets not exposed to heavy wear and tear
• Paint touch-ups or quick DIY projects
• Painting over previously coated cabinets
• When working in enclosed spaces due to lower odor
• To avoid chemicals if there are health concerns

Latex enamel paints provide good durability and smoother finishes on metal surfaces. Look for bonding primers made for metal if using latex paint.

When to Use Oil-Based Paint

For extremely durable, professional-grade metal paint jobs on filing cabinets, oil-based paints are preferable:

• For cabinets in garages, basements, or other high-traffic, high-use areas
• When painting cabinets previously coated in oil-based paint
• If repainting due to paint failure like chipping or fading
• Where maximum adhesion, hardness, and glossy finish are desired

Oil-based enamels, alkyd paints and urethane paints are top choices for painting metal filing cabinets.

Choose the Right Type of Metal Paint

For the most heavy duty, protective finish on a metal filing cabinet, use a specialty metal paint formulated for optimum adhesion and durability.

Rust-Preventative Enamel

Metal enamel paints create a glass-like coating that resists scratches, dings, chemicals, and weathering. Rust-preventative enamel is ideal for steel filing cabinets, especially those showing wear. Metal enamel paints come in both oil and latex options.

Galvanizing Paint

Galvanizing paint contains zinc powder to recreate the protective galvanized coating of new steel. Great for galvanized or very weathered steel, it dries to a textured silvery-gray finish. Galvanizing paint works as a primer and finish in one.

Alkyd-Based Metal Paint

Alkyd paints use synthetic resins that add flexibility and adhesion power compared to traditional oil-based paints. Formulated specifically for metal, alkyd paints provide a hard, glossy finish that withstands moisture, scrapes and chips.

Urethane Paint

Two-part urethane paints create nearly impenetrable metal coatings. The urethane resin is mixed with a catalyst hardener before application. Urethane paint dries to an ultra-smooth, glass-like surface. For industrial-level protection of filing cabinets, urethanes are the pinnacle.

For aluminum cabinets, using a paint marketed as safe for aluminum prevents chemical reactions with bare metal. Etching primers help aluminum paint adhesion.

Prepare the Metal Surface Properly

Achieving great, long-lasting paint results relies heavily on proper preparation of the metal filing cabinet prior to painting. This involves several steps:

Clean the Surface

Remove any dirt, grease, oil or grime on the metal with household cleaners or degreasing agents. Tack cloths pick up dust or particles that could ruin the smooth paint finish.

Remove Flaking Paint

Eliminate all loose, bubbling, cracking or peeling paint using sandpaper, steel wool, paint scrapers and wire brushes. Feather out edges of old paint. You want only intact paint remaining.

Sand Away Rust and Rough Areas

Use 60-100 grit sandpaper to sand over the entire cabinet surface. Pay special attention to rust spots, paint edges and any imperfections that need smoothing out.

Apply Rust Converter (If Needed)

For surface rust that won’t sand away, apply a rust converter chemical. Itstabilizes the rust and prepares for primer.

Wipe Clean

Carefully wipe away all sanding dust using a tack cloth. Make sure no dust particles remain on the metal before priming.

Apply Metal Etching Primer (For Aluminum)

If painting aluminum, first use an etching primer formulated to rough up and bond to slick aluminum surfaces, improving paint adhesion.

Prime with Metal Primer

Once the metal is prepped, apply 1-2 coats of quality metal primer like rust inhibiting or galvanized metal primer. Allow proper drying time between coats.

Thorough prep removes any barriers between the metal and paint, letting them fuse together for maximum durability.

Use Proper Painting Techniques

Applying the topcoat paint to a metal filing cabinet also deserves careful attention for flawless results:

• Use quality applicator brushes made for metal
• Maintain even stroke speed and pressure
• Apply paint in thin, uniform coats
• Allow proper drying time between coats
• Lightly sand between coats for ultra-smooth finish
• Use 2-3 paint coats for best coverage and durability
• Follow all manufacturer drying time and application instructions

Avoid painting in very dusty, hot or humid conditions. Adhering to best practices during painting makes a big difference in the final look and longevity of the paint finish.

Consider Placement and Use of Filing Cabinet

The metal filing cabinet’s intended use and environment should factor into choosing the right paint. Consider:

Indoor vs. Outdoor

Outdoor filing cabinets need paints that withstand sun, rain, temperature swings and weathering. Indoor paints work fine in climate controlled settings.

High Traffic vs Infrequent Use

Cabinets in active office spaces need paint that resists nicks, scratches and wear from frequent use and contact. Infrequently used storage cabinets can get by with standard durability paint.

Type of Contact and Exposure

Think about what kind of contact the cabinet may encounter regularly. Are people moving boxes on the top? Leaning on the doors? Rubbing up against the sides? This influences durability needs.

Also consider chemical exposure. Garage cabinets may need paint able to withstand automotive fluids. Industrial spaces may have airborne caustics that require protective coatings.

Analyze the conditions the filing cabinet will live in and any special wear factors when selecting metal paint. The goal is choosing a finish that lasts for years under the expected use.

Matching Metal Filing Cabinet Paint to D??cor

Beyond basic function, filing cabinet paint colors also allow you to integrate the piece into surrounding office or workspace aesthetics.

Color Palette

Choose cabinet paint colors that complement the room’s existing color scheme. Neutral metal paints like grays, beiges and black allow cabinets to blend discreetly into background spaces with busier decorative elements.

For a pop of color, painting the cabinet a bright, vivid shade can make it a distinctive focal point and highlight corporate branding or themes. Just be sure the color doesn’t clash with the overall workspace decor.

Consider the size of the space when selecting a color. Darker colors tend to work better in large rooms, while small offices often benefit from lighter shades to maintain an airy, open feel.

Sheen

Flat or matte paints minimize the presence of metal filing cabinets in a space. They create a more subtle, understated look.

Gloss and semi-gloss sheens make cabinets stand out more, and are easier to keep clean. Satin sheens offer a good mid-point between durable and subtle.

Most metal paints dry to a glossier sheen naturally, but many also offer satin or matte finish options.

Style

Match classic metal paint colors and finishes like silvers, grays and high-gloss black to contemporary and modern office spaces with sleek, polished decor.

In traditional or vintage workspaces, softer metallics, antique-finish patinas and brushed metal looks feel cohesive. Rustic environments suit textured galvanized silver, copper and bronze metal paint tones.

Thinking about overall decor style ensures the painted filing cabinet enhances the intended aesthetic.

FAQs About Painting Metal Filing Cabinets

What kind of paint adheres best to metal?

Specialty metal paints formulated for maximum adhesion and durability on steel and aluminum work best. Look for primers and paints designed for metal that resist corrosion, weathering, chips and damage.

What sheen is best for painting metal filing cabinets?

Traditional oil-based enamels dry to a glossy finish. For metal, satin/semi-gloss offer a good balance of shine and scratch resistance. Matte finishes require gentle handling. Prioritize durability and ease of cleaning over preference for sheen.

Do I need to etch primer aluminum filing cabinets before painting?

Etching primer creates a textured surface on slick aluminum to help paint grab on securely. Without etching primer, paint may gradually peel. Most aluminum paint kits include etching primer specifically designed for metal.

Should I remove old paint before repainting a metal filing cabinet?

If the existing paint is intact and bonded well, you can likely paint over it. But removing old paint allows for better adhesion and avoids issues with chipping or peeling later on. Assess paint condition and metal corrosion to decide.

How many coats of paint for metal filing cabinets?

2-3 coats ensures full, even coverage. Thin coats are better than one thick coat. Allow proper drying time between coats. Adding extra coats boosts paint durability. Sand lightly between coats for a perfectly smooth finish.

Key Takeaways on Painting Metal Filing Cabinets

• Identify if the filing cabinet metal is steel or aluminum
• Thoroughly assess the condition of existing paint and metal
• Choose latex or oil-based paint; oil paints offer greater durability
• Use metal-specific paints like enamels, urethanes and galvanizing paints
• Proper metal prep and priming leads to better paint adhesion
• Follow best practices for paint spraying or brushing on filing cabinets
• Consider cabinet placement and use when selecting paint
• Pick colors and finishes fitting for the decor of the space
• Specialty metal paints provide the most protection and longevity

Painting a metal filing cabinet seems simple but requires careful planning and preparation for optimal results. By selecting the right metal-specific paint and properly prepping the surface, you can achieve a smooth, durable finish that keeps your filing cabinet looking like new for many years.

Conclusion

Painting metal filing cabinets provides an affordable way to refresh dated office furniture and improve workspace aesthetics. With the right products and techniques, DIYers can tackle painting their filing cabinets and get professional-looking results.

The most important first step is identifying whether the cabinet is steel or aluminum construction. From there, assessing the current condition of the metal and making any necessary repairs prepares the surface to bond well with new paint.

Choosing specialty paint formulated for metal ensures maximum adhesion and durability – protection from scratches, dents, corrosion and other damage metal cabinets commonly incur. Matching sheen and color to the existing decor also helps the revitalized filing cabinet seamlessly blend into office environments.

With care taken in preparing the surface and applying a high-quality metal paint, filing cabinets can be given new life with a durable, great-looking painted finish that lasts for many years of useful service.