Painting Sheet Metal

Spray in a quick smooth and even pattern until the surface is covered.

Painting sheet metal.

Acrylic latex paint like most types of metal surfaces sheet aluminum is hard slick and nonporous. 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. Once the metal has dried dampen a cloth with white vinegar and wipe the surface down. This makes it highly resistant to paint adhesion.

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. Paint can add a custom look to almost anything but it won t properly adhere to a smooth metal surface without preparation. Keep a damp cloth nearby to wipe away paint dust and rust particles periodically while you work. The acidity of the vinegar will react with the metal treating the surface to promote paint adhesion.

All you have to do is simply apply the vinegar to a clean rag and then wipe down the galvanized surface. 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. If painting over lightly rusted or bare metal i e. To properly prepare new metal surfaces use mineral spirits to remove grease and apply a rust inhibitive primer before painting.

For best results keep the can parallel to the sheet metal surface and spray in a back and forth motion over the surface. Painted sheet metal gives any roofing project a highly customized look without sacrificing durability and performance. 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. Wear gloves and a dust mask while you work.

Both steel and aluminum sheet metal can be painted to your customer s specifications. Sheet aluminum must be pre treated through abrasion to help encourage it to accept paint. Before painting shiny sheet metal abrade it with fine sandpaper or steel. Hold the spray paint can 12 to 24 inches 30 4 to 60 9 cm from the surface.

The acid in the vinegar will act to etch the metal and help the paint adhere.