Preparing Sheet Metal For Painting

The goal is to remove any dust dirt or other particulate buildup that could affect the texture of the metal surface.

Preparing sheet metal for painting.

Go over the metal with a wire brush to remove any oxidation. To properly prepare new metal surfaces use mineral spirits to remove grease and apply a. Paint will not adhere to dirty oily surfaces. Wipe the galvanized surface down with white vinegar.

However badly rusted metal areas need more prep work and possibly a special primer. The vinegar s acidity will further abrade. Once done you can paint over rust. Remove loose and peeling paint.

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. For large flat surfaces use a sanding block to get even pressure. If you haven t already spread out a drop cloth or a large plastic sheet. Spray the metal with compressed air.

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. 5 important steps preparing metal for paint clean the surface. Sanding and applying primer.

Introduce your secret weapon the secret to painting galvanized steel is white vinegar. With the rust removed sand the entire surface to smooth out uneven areas and dull the surface so the primer and paint can adhere. Place the object you re painting on a drop cloth. Scrub partially rusted metal areas with a wire brush to remove flakes and powdery surface rust then prime with a rust inhibitive primer.

Start with 120 grit sandpaper and work to finer grade sandpapers ending with 320 grit. Prime the surface with a primer made for metal. Start with a wire brush photo 1. Preferably set up your painting area outside.

The vinegar is a mild acid which acts to etch the galvanized coating so the paint will stick. Spray the sheet metal with white vinegar and wipe it down with a clean rag. This will remove any dust and dirt from the surface of the sheet metal.