Painting Sheet Metal

Acrylic latex paint like most types of metal surfaces sheet aluminum is hard slick and nonporous.

Painting sheet metal.

Paint can add a custom look to almost anything but it won t properly adhere to a smooth metal surface without preparation. The acidity of the vinegar will react with the metal treating the surface to promote paint adhesion. No rust remained after wire brushing it then top it with a water or oil based interior exterior rust preventative metal primer available for. Wear gloves and a dust mask while you work.

Choose a type of paint you may or may not need to prime the surface depending on the type of paint you choose. Large cans may be the most cost effective option when painting large linear metal objects such as fences and backsplashes but spray paints e g rust oleum hammered metal finish spray 8 74 for. Apply spray paint to the sheet metal. To properly prepare new metal surfaces use mineral spirits to remove grease and apply a rust inhibitive primer before painting.

The acid in the vinegar will act to etch the metal and help the paint adhere. All you have to do is simply apply the vinegar to a clean rag and then wipe down the galvanized surface. Painted sheet metal gives any roofing project a highly customized look without sacrificing durability and performance. For painted surfaces that are in sound condition remove dust with a clean dry cloth de gloss the surface with light sanding and wipe with mineral spirits to ensure good adhesion.

Spray in a quick smooth and even pattern until the surface is covered. This makes it highly resistant to paint adhesion. On older galvanized metal surfaces where the zinc coating has begun breaking down known as white rust use a wire brush or fine sandpaper to remove the chalky film before cleaning it. For best results keep the can parallel to the sheet metal surface and spray in a back and forth motion over the surface.

Once the metal has dried dampen a cloth with white vinegar and wipe the surface down. Hold the spray paint can 12 to 24 inches 30 4 to 60 9 cm from the surface. If painting over lightly rusted or bare metal i e. Working around paint and rust particles can be harmful so choose a well ventilated area where you can put a drop sheet down underneath your metal project.

Before painting shiny sheet metal abrade it with fine sandpaper or steel.