What Paint to Use on Metal Filing Cabinet

Selecting the right paint for a metal filing cabinet is important to get a durable and long-lasting finish. There are several factors to consider when choosing a paint, including adhesion, durability, and ease of application. Using the wrong type of paint can result in chipping, peeling, rusting, and other problems down the road. This article provides a detailed overview of the best options for painting metal filing cabinets to achieve a professional-quality result.

Cleaning and Preparing the Metal Surface

Proper preparation is crucial for the paint to adhere correctly to the metal. Here are the steps to follow:

• Remove any existing paint that is chipped or peeling using a wire brush or sandpaper. Sand the areas down to the bare metal.
• Clean the entire cabinet using a degreasing agent like mineral spirits to remove any oil, grease or dirt.
• Sand all surfaces lightly with fine grit sandpaper to rough up the metal and allow the paint to adhere better.
• Clean again with a tack cloth to remove any dust.
• Apply a metal primer like Rust-Oleum filler primer that is specifically formulated for metal. This helps the topcoat bond properly.

Proper prep removes any contaminants and creates a profile for the paint to grip.

Choosing the Right Metal Paint

For a filing cabinet that sees frequent use, durability is a top concern. The paint needs to stand up to wear without chipping, scratching or fading. Here are great options:

Enamel Paint

Enamel paints provide a glossy, opaque finish that is very durable and scratch resistant. They are ideal for high-use surfaces like filing cabinets. Oil-based enamel paints are tougher than latex acrylic options and recommended for metal specifically. Brands like Rust-Oleum, Krylon and Valspar make oil-based enamel sprays and brush-on paints in many sheens and colors.

Epoxy Paint

Another option is a two-part epoxy paint that provides an industrial-strength finish. Epoxies cure to a hard, ceramic-like coating that strongly resists chipping, chemicals, and solvents. They stick tenaciously to metals. Rust-Oleum and Valspar make epoxy coatings for metal applications, available in spray cans or as a combined liquid kit.

Hammered Finish Paint

For a unique decorative look, consider a hammered finish paint. These coatings dry to an elegant textured look, helping hide small dents and scratches. Rust-Oleum’s Hammered Metal Finish comes in convenient aerosol spray cans in colors like black, silver, gold and copper.

High-Heat Paint

For filing cabinets used to store flammable materials, look for a high-heat paint made to withstand temperatures up to 1200°F. Rust-Oleum High Heat coats metal surfaces like file cabinets, fire pits, grills, and more. It resists chipping, fading, and peeling even when the metal gets hot.

Application Tips for Smooth Results

Careful application helps ensure the paint adheres evenly and looks professional. Here are some tips:

• Light coats – Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick coat. This prevents drips and helps the paint cure properly.
• Follow dry times – Allow the full drying time recommended on the paint can between coats. Rushing stages can ruin the finish.
• Proper spray – When using spray cans, keep 10-12 inches between the can and surface. Spray using even strokes and full coverage.
• Brush application – Use high-quality synthetic or nylon brushes when applying enamel or epoxy paint by hand. Work systematically and maintain a wet edge.
• Clean finish – Carefully mask off any nearby surfaces you don’t want painted. Remove masking before the paint fully dries.

Proper metal prep and careful paint application allows for a smooth, durable finish on filing cabinets. Consider adding a clear matte or gloss topcoat for an extra layer of protection and sheen. With the right metal paint and techniques, your filing cabinet can maintain its fresh look for many years.

FAQ About Painting Metal Filing Cabinets

What kind of paint adheres best to metal filing cabinets?

Enamel and epoxy paints formulated specifically for metal provide the best adhesion and most durable finish on metal filing cabinets. They resist chipping and stand up to frequent handling.

What areas on the filing cabinet should be sanded?

Lightly sand all surfaces on the filing cabinet using fine grit sandpaper. Pay extra attention to any areas with rust or rough texture to ensure proper adhesion.

What type of primer should be used?

A metal or filler primer specifically made for metal is highly recommended before painting a filing cabinet. This allows for superior paint bonding.

How many coats of paint should be applied?

Typically 2-3 thin, even coats of enamel, epoxy or high heat paint will provide good coverage on a metal filing cabinet. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

How long does it take for the paint to fully cure?

Depending on the paint used, it can take 1-3 weeks for the finish to fully cure and become scratch and chip resistant. Avoid heavy use during this time.

Can spray paint be used on metal filing cabinets?

Yes, spray paint formulated for metal applications works well on filing cabinets. Enamel, epoxy and lacquer spray paints provide durable, attractive finishes.

Conclusion

Applying the right type of high-quality paint using proper metal prep and application techniques allows metal filing cabinets to have an attractive, durable finish that lasts for many years. The finish resists scratches, chips, fading and other damage from frequent use and handling. Enamel, epoxy, hammered finish and high heat paints are all great options for metal filing cabinets depending on needs. With some simple steps, it is easy to refresh a filing cabinet with a professional looking paint job.