How do you repair metal kitchen cabinets?

To repair metal cabinets, remove the doors, clean the surface with a solution of hot water and degreaser, and remove the paint with paint remover. To remove rust, sand with medium-grit paper or apply phosphoric acid. Once the old paint has been removed, prime and repaint the cabinets.

1. Remove the doors and clean the cabinets

   Unscrew each door from the hinges. With a sponge, clean the doors and the frame with an ammonia-based product or a solution of 2 tablespoons of degreaser in a gallon of hot water.

2. Remove the paint and rust

   With a paint brush, apply a paint remover to the surface of the cabinets and the doors. Let the remover sit for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer. Once the paint is loose, use a putty knife to scrape it off the cabinets. Rinse the cabinets with water, and let them dry. If the metal has rusted, sand the surface with medium-grit sandpaper. Alternatively, apply phosphoric acid, and let it sit overnight. The next day, scrub off the rust that has changed to iron phosphate.

3. Finish the cabinets.

   Once the cabinets are clean and dry, prime the surface with a metal primer. Once the primer is dry, apply paint in the color of your choice. Before rehanging the cabinet doors, replace all of the hinges.