These days you will find a wide variety of different metal paints on the market. Consumers are spoilt for choice with many paint manufacturers supplying metal paints in spray cans, large 10 litre plastic containers or in an assortment of tin sizes and colors. Metal paints are commonly used in industries to coat items such as furniture, electronics, toys, vehicles, boats, aircraft and a myriad of consumer products.

In the automotive industry the paint used on new vehicles is generally formulated so that its properties grip or bond to the metallic surface it is applied to. For example, expensive special formulated metal flake type paint is used on many new cars and trucks that come off the production line because the tiny metal flakes give the finished paintwork a shiny sparkling look that consumers find appealing.

In general, bare unpainted metal that is exposed to the elements will corrode very quickly if it is not protected by metal paint. To allow for maximum protection it is always best to use two coats of a good quality primer although in many cases one coat of a good quality primer or sealer will generally be sufficient.

The golden rule when applying any metallic paints is to always make sure the surface to be painted is clean, dry and free of any rust or corrosion.

This is important because if the surface is not prepared properly then all sorts of problems can arise later on. For example, several years ago I recall being caught out after I applied metal paint to some galvanized roof spouting I was painting that had some noticeable tell-tale signs of rust.

At the time I thought it would be alright and no-one noticed until 2 years later when the metal paint started to bubble on the outside of the spouting, which was where the rust had been painted over. Not long after that the rain came and water poured through the now jagged rust holes that had appeared across a large section of the spouting.

As a result the spouting had to be completely replaced, whereas if it had been prepared properly in the first instance with the rust cut out and removed, it would have lasted probably many more years.

Here are some simple techniques and tips to follow when using metal paints -

1. Properly prepare the surface by making sure any dirt and loose paint is thoroughly removed.
2. Ensure any sign of rust is completely cut out or removed.
3. Use a wire brush, sandpaper or where necessary paint stripper
4. Wear protective gloves
5. Ensure you have the appropriate equipment such as rollers, brushes
6. Paint only when conditions are warm and dry
7. Avoid painting in hot conditions as this could result in the metal paint drying too quickly causing poor adhesion to the surface
8. Do not paint when it may rain or in windy conditions
9. Avoid using cheap metal paints as it may not last as long
10. Use a primer or sealer before applying your metal paint
11. Clean all equipment thoroughly after the job has been completed

Applying metallic paint to steel in the main requires the same preparation and application as painting any metal object, although as a general rule it is best to use oil-based paint on steel. One of the main advantages of using oil based paint is it keeps rust from forming.

Before selecting metal paint at your local paint shop there are several basic steps you will need to follow before applying it.

1. The first step is to thoroughly wipe down the metal with a wet clean cloth to remove any sign of dirt, grime, oil, cobwebs etc.
2. If the steel surface shows any sign of surface rust then either a stiff wire brush or steel wool needs to be used to sand the rusted area smooth.
3. Use a clean cloth or brush to take away any dust particles and grit from the sanded area.
4. Use an oil-based metal primer to seal the newly sanded area to prevent any rust from reforming and allow plenty of time for the primer to dry.
5. To ensure the metal paint you intend to use bonds properly to the steel surface it is advisable to use the metal primer to paint the entire steel surface of the object to be painted.
6. Use a good quality paint brush or if there is a big area or object to paint such as a steel shed use a roller to create a smooth finish.
7. An airless sprayer is another effective method that can be used to apply oil-based paint.
8. Using oil-based paints means any brush or other equipment that comes in contact with it will need to be cleaned with turpentine so ensure you have a supply handy.
9. An airless sprayer is ideal for large paint jobs and can in some cases be hired from a Hire Store on a daily or an hourly basis. However, you will need to ensure if a sprayer is hired it is returned in the condition you received it at the time of hiring.
10. Use a dry clean cloth to wipe off any over spray or paint drips.

With the many different types of trendy colors available these days in the easy to use spray can, the basic home paint job on small items around the home is made that much easier for the do-it-yourself handyman. This is especially the case with metal furniture such as bed bases, tables and chairs in the home being knocked accidentally and paint chipped leaving them with a tired look.

If you want to freshen up a chipped piece of furniture with a nice paint job then follow these 12 tips-

1. Find some old clothes or a pair of overalls. Use a face mask and protective eye wear as protection from flying paint particles and rust dust during sanding.
2. If rain is threatening and it’s windy outside use your garage. Place a drop sheet or old sheets of newspaper on the floor.
3. Rub down the object with sandpaper to remove any chipped paint, scratches or surface rust.
4. If the object is a metal chair and been left outside it may have serious signs of rust that may be too difficult for sandpaper to remove. In such cases a wire brush should be used or a electric drill with a circular wire brush as a last resort.
5. For a smooth finish use a light gauge sandpaper to finish off.
6. Cover with masking tape any part of the object that is not required to be painted and remove or unscrew any part of the object to avoid accidentally covering with paint
7. Obtain a gloss enamel metal spray paint that has a built in primer. A wide selection of spray paints in modern colors can be bought from most hardware and paint shops.
8. Prior to painting, ensure you shake the can well for at least one or two minutes so the contents have been mixed thoroughly.
9. Spray a small amount on a piece of newspaper before you start to ensure the paint has mixed and the spray is coming out of the nozzle properly.
10. Hold the can 12-18 inches from the object and spray quickly over the entire surface of the object until it has been covered on the top, sides and bottom.
11. It is important to keep the spray can moving throughout the painting process.
12. Leave until completely dry and apply a second coat if considered necessary.

After the paint has dried pull the masking tape away and reassemble the object if necessary and you are left with a fresh looking painted piece that will delight and surprise you.

If you are a handy DIY person, there are many things to consider before you begin your metal roof painting project apart from how much money you are likely to save

The most important consideration you need to think about is your personal safety. This may not be an issue of course if, for example, your roof is flat and you are alert and aware of all the hazards around you, so preparing the surface, applying the primer and metal paint may not be too difficult.
On the other hand, if your roof has steep gables, is high off the ground or is difficult for you to stand up on, then the risk factor to your safety is increased greatly.

As a general rule, if your safety is compromised or likely to be put at risk then you should seriously consider hiring a qualified painter because they will have the know-how and skill to complete the job safely and professionally.

If you have assessed the risks involved and are intent on painting your roof then check your ladder to see if it is in top condition. If your ladder is showing signs of fatigue or is unsteady when placed upright then replace it or borrow a reliable one. Also before you even begin have a look at the weather conditions and forecast.

This will ensure you’re not caught out if it begins to rain while on the roof or when your newly painted roof is only half dried.
Wear non slip footwear but be aware many metal roofs can be very slippery under foot and special shoe braces should be used particularly if the roof has sharp angles. If there is moisture on the surface of the roof then wait until it dries.

Ensure you are not alone at home while you are painting in the event of an emergency or accident. For added protection while on the roof secure a harness to your belt and attach the lead to a firm section of the roof to prevent you from falling.

Finally, wear overalls if possible and other protective type apparel such as eye protectors and gloves if you need to use abrasive chemicals or other bonding agents in your preparation work.

These days painting any metal surface is not all that daunting provided you have the proper products, equipment and have carried out the required preparation.

In fact, you can get a first-rate professional finish with little difficulty simply by applying your imagination and creativity by using a good quality colorful metal paint to freshen up a wide range of metal appliances, furniture, sheds, balustrades, cabinets, pipes, tools and other objects.

Before heading down to your paint shop to buy your tins of primer and metal paint you will need to firstly make sure the item you are about to paint is made of metal and not another substance like aluminum or stainless steel. To find out if the surface you are about to paint is metallic use a magnet, because if the object is metallic the magnet will stick to it. As a general rule, if the material is aluminum it will scratch when scratched with a sharp nail and if it is stainless steel the nail will not leave a scratch mark.

Preparing the Surface for Painting

When you’re painting any metal object, it’s important to ensure you carefully plan the preparation work before you pick up your paint brush. For example if you want the item you’re about to paint to look really sharp, then it’s vital you take steps to remove any sign of dust, dirt, grime, oil or surface rust.

A stiff wire brush can be used to scrub away any surface rust while a strong cleaner that won’t leave any residue should be used to wash away any dirt or grime. Any sign of mold can be removed with a bleach solution. After the surface has been rinsed with warm water and wiped dry the bare metal can then scuffed with sand paper ready for priming.

Applying metal roof paint these days is generally a simple task if you have the right equipment and know-how. There are also some specially formulated good quality long lasting acrylic roof coatings available that can be easily brushed, rolled or sprayed onto new metal roofing without a primer, although it may be necessary to ensure new roofing has properly “weathered” before the paint is applied. Generally, a roof that has been “weathered” will help the paint to adhere and bond better than a shiny new metallic roof. If unsure it is suggested you seek professional advice.

If you are thinking about painting a metal roof there are a number of techniques and tips that can be followed to ensure a good job –

1. Before starting ensure you have a good pair of rubber soled shoes and preferably a long handled brush if you are not spray painting as this will avoid you having to bend down and will help alleviate the pressure on your knees while kneeling on the roof itself if you intend to use the basic hand paint brush
2. Stir the metal paint thoroughly before use and intermittently during application
3. Do not apply paint to the roof when there is rain threatening and do not paint over condensation
4. Ensure the paint is applied when the temperature is not too hot or too cold. For example the general rule of thumb is to NOT to apply metal paint when the temperatures are below 40 degree F or above 80 degree F.
5. Thoroughly clean the roof surface to be painted by using a water blaster if necessary to clean off any flaky paint and dirt or grime.
6. It is important to pay close attention to any rust areas which should be removed by using a wire brush or metal scraper. If rust is still present after cleaning it can be spot primed with a good red oxide primer.

When applying metal spray paint to a piece of furniture ensure the paint you are going to use is meant to be used on a metal surface. A gloss enamel with a built in sealer primer would be my preference as this type of paint is best to protect the surface from corrosion.

When applying the paint from a can make sure it is shaken vigorously for about a minute or two and spray a sample onto some paper to check if it comes out properly before commencing.

Before you begin using your metal spray paint ensure you cover everything that could be accidentally sprayed with an old sheet or curtain type material. Lastly, use masking tape to cover any hinges, knobs or other parts that require protection. Prepare the surface by sanding away any signs of rust or paint and fill in any uneven areas of the surface with polyester fill then sand down to make the surface smooth and even. You are now ready to use your metal spray paint. As a rule, to get an even spread across the surface to be sprayed you should stand at least a foot away from the furniture.
Spray in an even pattern until the surface is completely covered. It is important to keep spraying a fine mist and not to stop. A second coat can then be applied if considered necessary.

Any hard to get at parts of the furniture item should be done at the same time. When the job has been completed the metal spray paint should be allowed to dry completely before the masking tape is removed and parts of the furniture are reassembled.

Before applying metal paint it is common to use a good quality primer or sealer to stop any future problem with corrosion.  Some very good metallic paints that are available today have built in primer.

Paint for metal is necessary because without this protection metallic objects when exposed to a harsh environment will corrode and rust very quickly.  For example, a metal roof that is on a home by the seaside will be exposed to the ravages of sea spray and will corrode very rapidly.  Paint for metal has advanced rapidly in recent years however unless the surface is prepared properly the paint will not protect the metal that has been painted.

If a poorly prepared roof with flecks of rust is painted over with metal paint it will not take long for the rust to bubble to the surface, no matter how good the metal paint is.

To avoid rust problems getting out of hand on any surface it is therefore important to always put the effort in early by taking steps to remove it completely by either using a metal brush or scraper.  If any holes need to be repaired that are caused by the decay, they can be filled in with a filler and sanded to a smooth surface if necessary.