What to Do with Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Metal kitchen cabinets can be a stylish and durable choice for your kitchen. However, over time metal cabinets may start to show signs of wear or feel dated. Instead of replacing your metal kitchen cabinets, consider giving them new life with one of these clever updates.
Paint or Refinish for an Updated Look
Painting or refinishing your metal cabinets is one of the easiest ways to update the look. A fresh coat of paint can make your metal cabinets look like new again. Consider painting them a trendy color like navy blue, forest green or even black for a modern style. For a more natural look, opt for a stain, glaze or oil-rubbed bronze finish instead. Be sure to properly prep and clean your cabinets before painting or refinishing. Lightly sanding and priming will help the new paint adhere.
Add New Hardware for Visual Interest
Replacing your dated cabinet hardware with modern handles and knobs can give your metal cabinets a quick facelift. Sleek black pulls or industrial pipe handles will give your kitchen a more contemporary vibe. For a more eclectic look, mix and match hardware styles and finishes. When selecting new hardware, make sure it has the proper installation type for your current cabinets.
Install Glass Cabinet Doors
Adding glass cabinet doors is a gorgeous way to update the look of your metal cabinets. The clear glass allows your dishes, cookbooks and decor to shine. Frosted, etched or even colored glass options can add privacy or a unique touch. Custom cut the glass to fit your existing cabinet frames. Hinges, handles and trim pieces specially made for glass doors can give it a finished, built-in look. This update also allows more natural light to shine in the kitchen.
Add Interior Lighting
Installing lighting inside your metal cabinets will illuminate the contents, creating a gorgeous display. Puck lights, strip lighting or cabinet bars can all be used to shed light inside. Opt for LED lights for brightness, efficiency and longevity. Link the lights to existing under cabinet lighting or wire them to their own switch for separate control. Use dimmable lights to set the perfect ambiance in your newly lit cabinets.
Remove Doors for Open Shelving
For a more rustic, industrial look, consider removing some of the cabinet doors. Open shelving allows you to stylishly display cookware, dishware or decorative items. Only remove doors on upper cabinets, leave lower ones closed for concealed storage. Make sure to properly patch any holes or hardware markings left behind from the original doors. Sand and paint the shelves to match the rest of the cabinetry. Optional glass doors on other cabinets balance the industrial open shelves.
Add Wood Plank Accents
Wood adds warmth and dimension to plain metal cabinetry. Cut thin wood planks and adhere them vertically, horizontally or diagonally across the cabinet fronts and sides. Use reclaimed wood, shiplap or tongue and groove planks for texture. Paint or stain the wood accents to complement your cabinets. Keep them light for a more modern, rustic look or go darker for traditional appeal. This easy upgrade adds beautiful visual interest to your metal kitchen cabinets.
Repurpose as Built-In Cabinetry
Metal cabinets are extremely sturdy, making them ideal for transforming into built-in cabinetry, bookshelves or storage units for other rooms. Remove them from the kitchen and mount securely to the wall as floating shelves in the dining room or family room. Repurpose them as bathroom vanities by topping with quartz or a custom wood countertop. Get creative transforming your old metal kitchen cabinets into functional storage solutions for any space.
Frequently Asked Questions About Updating Metal Kitchen Cabinets
What type of paint should I use to update metal cabinets?
Use a high-quality enamel paint, specifically made for metal and kitchen cabinets. Be sure to properly clean and prep your cabinets first. Lightly sanding and applying a bonding primer will help the paint adhere.
Can I spray paint my metal cabinets instead of brush painting?
Yes, spray paint formulated specifically for metal can save time and provide an ultra smooth finish. Remove the doors and hardware to make spraying easier. Use painters tape to mask off areas. Work in a well ventilated area and apply multiple thin coats.
How do I remove old caulk or adhesive from my metal cabinets?
Use a plastic putty knife to gently scrape away old caulk and adhesive residue. For any remaining stickiness, apply mineral spirits or paint thinner to a rag and rub gently to remove. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage your cabinets.
What’s the easiest way to freshen up my metal cabinet hardware?
If your hardware is dated but still functional, a quick spray paint can update the look. Use a primer spray first, then finish with metal spray paint in a modern finish like matte black or brushed nickel. Remove hardware and spray in a ventilated area.
Should I refinish or paint the cabinet interiors when updating metal cabinets?
The cabinet interiors do not need to be refinished or repainted when updating the exterior look. Save time and money by leaving the clean interior as-is. Add shelf liner or LED lighting to refresh the inside.
What are the benefits of replacing cabinet doors with glass?
Glass doors beautifully display contents while allowing more light into the kitchen. They create an open, airy feel and make small kitchens appear larger. Glass cabinet doors come in many styles to match your décor.
Conclusion
With a little creativity and DIY inspiration, those outdated metal kitchen cabinets can be updated into a stunning modern focal point. Simple fixes like adding new hardware or a fresh coat of paint go a long way. For major transformations, installing glass doors or repurposing them as open shelving or built-ins allow you to get the most out of your existing metal cabinets. Any of these affordable updates can revive your old metal kitchen cabinets with stylish new life.
