Big Box Home Improvement Stores

Some of the major home improvement chains like Home Depot and Lowe’s have a selection of metal kitchen cabinets available. These big box stores typically carry major brands like:

• KraftMaid
• Hampton Bay
• Dynasty
• Allen + Roth

The selection may be limited to stainless steel or black finishes, but you can often get good deals on metal cabinet packages at these stores. Be sure to carefully measure your space first, as the cabinets are sold in standard widths.

Online Retailers

There are a number of online-only retailers that specialize in selling metal kitchen cabinets. Buying cabinets online tends to offer more customization options for sizes, finishes, and features. Some popular online metal cabinet brands include:

• Kabinart
• Optiquest
• Prima Kitchen Cabinets
• Modular Closets
• CliqStudios

Be sure to closely review sizing, shipping costs, and return policies when ordering kitchen cabinets online. Carefully measure your existing kitchen layout prior to purchase.

Specialty Kitchen and Bath Showrooms

For a wide selection of metal cabinet styles and finishes, visit a specialty kitchen and bath showroom. These showrooms work directly with high-end cabinet brands and can provide a more customized look for your kitchen. Expect to pay more, but have access to unique styles like:

• Modern Metals
• Sagehill Designs
• Canyon Creek Cabinet Company
• Mid Continent Cabinetry

A kitchen designer at these showrooms can help you select the perfect metal cabinets for your kitchen’s floorplan and layout.

Cabinet Manufacturers

For a completely custom look, order metal cabinets directly from a cabinet manufacturer. Semi-custom and full-custom cabinet options allow you to select from a wide array of metal types, colors, door styles and hardware. Custom cabinet lead times are typically 6-8 weeks. Top manufacturers of metal cabinets include:

• Wolf Cabinets
• Sheffield Cabinetry
• Scherr’s Cabinetry
• Custom Service Hardware
• Affordable Custom Cabinets

Be sure to get detailed measurements and speak with a designer to help come up with your ideal custom metal cabinet design.

Used Metal Cabinets

Finally, you can sometimes find high-quality used metal kitchen cabinets for sale on sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or eBay. This can be a budget-friendly option, but be sure to inspect the cabinets carefully before purchase. Refinishing or repainting used cabinets can give them a fresh new look.

Factors to Consider When Purchasing Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Once you’ve decided to go with metal kitchen cabinets, there are several factors to take into account before making your purchase:

Types of Metals

The most common types of metal used for kitchen cabinets include:

• Stainless steel – For a sleek, professional look. Stainless resists corrosion and is easy to clean.
• Aluminum – Lightweight but very durable. Available in various finishes.
• Galvanized steel – Coated with zinc to resist rust. An affordable metal option.
• Copper – Gorgeous, warm finish but higher cost. Can develop a patina over time.
• Silver/Nickel – Provides a mirror-like reflective surface for a contemporary style.
• Bronze – Provides an antique distressed look. Can be sealed for protection.

Consider the look you want along with your budget when choosing metal type.

Finishes and Hardware

Metal cabinet finish options include:

• Brushed – Textured satin finish, hides fingerprints.
• Polished – Glossy, reflective surface adds glam.
• Powder coated – Durable colored finishes like matte black or glossy white.
• Wood veneer – Thin wood layer adhered to metal for a warmer look.

The hardware finish should coordinate with your cabinet finish. Black, silver, bronze and brushed nickel are popular choices.

Quality and Durability

High-quality metal cabinets should have strong welded joints and reinforced corners. Check that doors open and close smoothly and lining feels solid. Most metal cabinets consist of a metal exterior supported by a wood or metal inner frame.

Storage Needs

Consider what storage your space needs. Opt for cabinets with drawers for pots and pans. Include glass-front cabinets to display serveware. Use cabinets with adjustable shelves. Pull-out shelves maximize storage.

Costs

Metal kitchen cabinets will generally cost $100-$200 per linear foot installed. Custom or high-end cabinets may be $300+ per linear foot. Get quotes from several sellers once you’ve selected the specific cabinets you want.

How to Care for Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Caring properly for your metal kitchen cabinets will help maintain their good looks:

• Use microfiber cloths to gently clean cabinets. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
• Wash with mild dish soap and water. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
• Immediately dry any spills or splatters. Avoid letting water pool.
• Use a stainless steel cleaner monthly to keep stainless cabinets spotless.
• Use commercial cleaners made specifically for the metal finish. Avoid bleach products.
• Don’t let grease build-up. Use a degreaser promptly on any oily residues.
• Use a dry towel on bronze finishes to preserve the patina.
• Tighten any loose screws or hinges to prevent damage over time.
• Touch up scratches with a finish-matched automotive paint pen.

With proper care, your metal kitchen cabinets can stay beautiful and functional for years to come. The sleek metallic finish will add contemporary style to your cooking space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy affordable metal kitchen cabinets?

Some of the most affordable options for metal kitchen cabinets include big box stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s, online retailers like Kabinart and CliqStudios, or looking for quality used metal cabinets on resale sites.

What are the most durable types of metal for cabinets?

Stainless steel and aluminum tend to be some of the most durable metals used for kitchen cabinets. They resist scratches, dents and corrosion.

Can metal cabinets be painted?

Most metal cabinet surfaces can be prepared and painted with an oil-based enamel paint. Be sure to properly prepare the surface first by cleaning, sanding and priming before painting.

Do metal cabinets make a kitchen look cold?

Metal cabinets can give off a cold vibe, but you can warm them up with touches like wood floors, accent colors, textured backsplash and glass cabinet fronts. Undercabinet lighting also adds coziness.

Why choose metal over wood cabinets?

Some benefits of metal over wood include more durability, easier cleaning, sleek modern look, reflective surfaces that brighten kitchens and styles that can’t be achieved with wood.

Conclusion

Metal kitchen cabinets provide a contemporary, durable option that works well in modern kitchen designs. Stainless steel and aluminum are popular choices that resist wear and tear over time. Consider the wide range of styles and finishes available to find the perfect metal cabinets to give your kitchen a fresh, unique look. Take proper care of your new metal cabinets by regularly cleaning and polishing to maintain their lovely finish for years of stylish performance. With the right metal kitchen cabinets, you can achieve a look that is both elegant and timeless.