Preparing Sheet Metal For Painting

Start with a wire brush photo 1.

Preparing sheet metal for painting. To properly prepare new metal surfaces use mineral spirits to remove grease and apply a. With the rust removed sand the entire surface to smooth out uneven areas and dull the surface so the primer and paint can adhere. Introduce your secret weapon the secret to painting galvanized steel is white vinegar. The vinegar is a mild acid which acts to etch the galvanized coating so the paint will stick.

No matter what the material it s hard to apply a proper coat of paint if you re brushing over bits and particles. Spray the sheet metal with white vinegar and wipe it down with a clean rag. Remove loose and peeling paint. Scrub partially rusted metal areas with a wire brush to remove flakes and powdery surface rust then prime with a rust inhibitive primer.

Things you ll need chemical degreaser distilled white vinegar lint free cloth high grit sandpaper or wire brush exterior latex primer exterior latex paint paintbrush or roller rubber gloves. Go over the metal with a wire brush to remove any oxidation. For large flat surfaces use a sanding block to get even pressure. 5 important steps preparing metal for paint clean the surface.

Prime the surface with a primer made for metal. Place the object you re painting on a drop cloth. If you haven t already spread out a drop cloth or a large plastic sheet. Paint will not adhere to dirty oily surfaces.

Wipe the galvanized surface down with white vinegar. The goal is to remove any dust dirt or other particulate buildup that could affect the texture of the metal surface. Some metals are pre coated with an oil that is designed to. Spray the metal with compressed air.

However badly rusted metal areas need more prep work and possibly a special primer. Surface preparation is the key to success when you prepare metal for priming and painting. If the old paint is in poor condition you can remove it by hand wire brushing sanding. This will remove any dust and dirt from the surface of the sheet metal.

The vinegar s acidity will further abrade. If you need to paint inside choose a well ventilated area and consider using a respirator. Once done you can paint over rust.