Comments on: Can anyone tell me how (if it is even possible) to reface wooden kitchen cabinets myself using metal?

By: ever1wolf

ever1wolf — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 13:12:29 +0000

I have to agree with some of the other answers. Ive been a contractor for many years and I wouldn’t advise homeowner do it yourself on this one.
I do have an alternative suggestion however.

Depending on the current finish, and the prep time you’re willing to spend, you might paint them in a metallic finish in the desired metal effect you wish. Many are textured, have a modest sheen, unlikle a vehicle bumper chrome, and some effects can be achieved in your efforts making the surface look hammered or distressed, after the fact.
It isn’t stainless or copper sheet, but it can be acceptable, and much less expensive.
The conditions that can occur in real metal facing would be like any that take place on a stainless refrig. door for example, or a bathroom mirror. There will always be dust, marks from oily finger tips, ect. Painting may also become marred or stained, but again, any quality paint can be wiped clean and is still, in the long term, less expensive.

Rev. Steven

By: b_yond_therainbow

b_yond_therainbow — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 13:12:29 +0000

Try one of the home improvement store websites. Like http://www.homedepot.com. I know that they often have a specific spot for do-it-yourselfers. Many have project ideas and how-tos.

By: DaFoxx

DaFoxx — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 13:12:29 +0000

Unless you’re a sheet metal fabricator, and you are not because you would know where to get material and how to cut it, correct? So your answer is No, it’s not possible for you to do it yourself. But it could be done if you have a big wallet. A very big wallet.The cost of stainless steel or copper would be extravagant. A reputable sheet metal shop could do it for you but they should advise you on the high costs of your project. But! good news is you can purchase laminates (Formica) that have the same look and appeal of copper or stainless. I did a bar top with the hammered copper finish and it’s gorgeous. This way you can just contact cement on the laminate and cut of with a router, if you are proficient enough with the tools and knowledge to do it. Buy a book on laminating and study it if you don’t have experience.No room for any errors with the contact cement. The metal types of laminate are harder to work with as they eat up a router bit faster that thinner laminates do to the metal coating. If you go ahead with it let me know how it came out. Good luck!

By: kazzalloy

kazzalloy — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 13:12:29 +0000

haven’t you seen the stuff you can get in DIY stores (England) that looks like metal but it’s not it’s sticky and sticks to any surface . it looks great and wouldn’t be to heavy for your kitchen doors neither .(It would be less work too)

By: oil field trash

oil field trash — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 13:12:29 +0000

I agree with DaFoxx, you are asking for trouble and a big mess if you try this yourself.

I am a pretty handy fellow when it comes to stuff around the house and I would never try this. Working sheet metal is a science and an art. Just trying to keep the smiles and dents out of the metal while you are working it is a major task.