How To Restore Metal Kitchen Cabinets: Step By Step Process Of Restoring Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Step By Step Process Of Restoring Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Metal kitchen cabinets, usually steel cabinets, are the most popular types of cabinets that are being used in kitchen areas. If you have a metal kitchen cabinets, then you can modernize them in order to maintain the fun vintage theme but with modern new colors. Before you start, you must know that the majority of the cabinets and homes from the past 30 years or more may contain lead-based paint, therefore, take good care of it and make sure to wear a mask and gloves when performing this job.

Step 1: Remove Hardware

First of all, detach all the hardware from the cabinets including handles & keep them aside at a safe place. After painting the cabinet, you have an option of purchasing new hardware for an updated look, instead of using old hardware. Make sure to attach the hardware back once the paint is completely dry. Some modern types of metal cabinets have pre-molded handles that are not possible to be removed or unscrewed. If in case you have pre-molded handles, then the best option is to paint over them with a similar color to the door for a heavy appearance. You can also detach the doors before painting, however, it is not necessary. Wear a painting mask as well as gloves, if in case you have lead-painted cabinets in order to safeguard yourself from any dust or paint flakes that get instigated and in the air.

Step 2: Cleaning Metal Cabinets

Now, clean the cabinets rigorously in order to get rid of any grease, stains, or dust. It is highly recommended to clean the doors with the help of rubbing alcohol to remove any grease or food stains. Then, make a mixture of two parts water with one part liquid soap in order to clean the entire cabinet. Allow it to dry rigorously to get rid of all soap and water, due to the reason that residual water can cause rust. A hairdryer can also be used for drying purposes, if needed. As soon as the cabinets are fully dry, if any loose paint is still present, get rid of it with the help of a soft brush or cloth. If you are not sure about the type of paint on your cabinets, then in that situation it is best to avoid sanding.

Step 3: Re-Finish Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Before starting the refinishing process, you need to first apply a metal primer. Spray primers are the best types of primers that are exceptional for metal cabinets. Primer is helpful when it comes to preventing corrosion and rust by securing out any moisture and will help the paint go on gently. Make sure to wear a mask and gloves during this process. Select the color of your choice & you can also maintain the retro theme, a bright red, a sky blue, or white are some of the colors that can make your cabinet look attractive. Oil-based paint works exceedingly well on metal cabinets as compared to the latex paint due to the reason that latex paint may not stick well and could result in cracks and flaking. Two coats should be enough but make sure to let the first coat dry fully before applying the second coat.

Step 4: Metal Cabinet Paint Types

Painting the metal cabinets with the help of a roller or brush is one of the best options. Make sure to go about the process slow and use careful strokes for the best possible finish. Rust-Oleum is another option for painting metal cabinets. You can also refinish your metal kitchen cabinets with the help of a fresh coat of paint and possibly some new hardware as well.