When preparing metal for paint checking for rust is important to make sure that the paint will adhere properly to the surface.
Painting on metal sheet.
Acrylic metal paints are available for paint on application or in spray cans which can shorten painting time significantly.
Hold the spray paint can 12 to 24 inches 30 4 to 60 9 cm from the surface.
Spray in a quick smooth and even pattern until the surface is covered.
If painting light to moderately used indoor metal surfaces think wall sconces bed frames or guest room night tables go with water based acrylic paint a cheaper 15 to 40 per gallon.
As with all metal painting projects proper preparation makes the difference between a quality paint job and how well the newly painted item will stand up to age and weathering especially when the metal is used outdoors.
Do not use alkyd based paints or oil based primer.
Getting a rusty metal object ready for painting takes a bit of work but it s totally doable.
Apply spray paint to the sheet metal.
To restore lightly rusted metal surfaces to their original state use a brush to clean off loose rust sand the area and apply a high quality rust inhibitive primer e g.
To paint a metal roof you ll need to use an oil based paint if you have a terne metal roof or an acrylic based paint if you have a galvanized metal roof.
Paint can t bond to rust so you ll need to start by restoring the surface.
If you re not sure what kind of roof you have ask a professional roofer to inspect it before you paint it.
Elbow grease will do the trick for lightly rusted metal but tougher jobs may require a power sander or chemicals.
Painted sheet metal features benefits.
Paints that are made for galvanized surfaces will require less prep work and will adhere better than other kinds of paint.
This article was co authored by james guth james guth is the co owner and founder of chesapeake painting services llc.
Painted sheet metal gives any roofing project a highly customized look without sacrificing durability and performance.
You ll also need to purchase a primer designed for metal roofs.
For best results keep the can parallel to the sheet metal surface and spray in a back and forth motion over the surface.
If your paint doesn t include primer follow the painting techniques in step 6 with a spray primer formulated for use on metal such as rust oleum metal primer spray paint view on amazon.