Prepare Sheet Metal For Painting

By addressing the deeper sand scratches this way we re actually skipping a step.

Prepare sheet metal for painting. You don t need to get down to bare shiny metal just clean off the flakes and powdery surface rust that prevent paint from adhering. Before you begin read the labels on all products you re using making sure they are suitable for the type of metal and compatible with each other. Let your paint dry for 3 4 hours. Analyze the surface of the sheet metal.

The first step is to clean off loose rust and flaking paint and then apply a rust inhibitive primer. Some people use acrylic latex paint which is not designed specifically for galvanized metal so you will want to prime the surface before painting. Before painting on metal prepare the surface so it s clean and rust free. Once the metal has dried dampen a cloth with white vinegar and wipe the surface down.

Paints that are made for galvanized surfaces will require less prep work and will adhere better than other kinds of paint. Even when fully cured metal glaze sands much softer than the surrounding rage gold. 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. To prep and paint metal you ll need shop rags acetone scuffing pad self etching primer and your choice of spray paint.

Read the directions on the container of metal paint. For more tips including how to prepare your galvanized steel before painting it read on. Create a rough surface on the sheet metal. Texturize the surface of the sheet metal.

Let the paint dry according to the directions. Do not use alkyd based paints or oil based primer. See all 28 photos. The acid in the vinegar will act to etch the metal and help the paint adhere.

However badly rusted metal areas need more prep work and possibly a special primer. If the sheet metal is smooth to the touch you will need to texturize it before painting. Don t forget to wear gloves eye protection and a respirator mask. The basic steps for surface prep are.

To properly prepare new metal surfaces use mineral spirits to remove grease and apply a rust inhibitive primer before painting. 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. Inspect the surface carefully to make sure it s completely coated with the paint source. Apply the metal paint which should be the same brand as the primer according to the product directions.

It should appear dull rather than shiny. This will allow the paint to adhere to the metal.