If you’re looking to spruce up a pre-painted shed or restoring your peeling fencing but aren’t sure how to prepare metal for painting, Haymes Paint is here to help you achieve a fresh and durable finish for your metal surfaces. As Australia’s largest family-run paint company, we've been crafting high-quality products since 1935. Our expertise ensures you get the best results, whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional, this guide covers the essential steps to painting over painted metal so you can be confident on your next project. 

Preparation Steps

1. Assessing Painted Metal Surfaces

Before you can begin priming and painting, you have to assess the condition of the painted metal. Look for rust, peeling paint, and any surface damage, as these will determine whether some extra steps and products may be needed. 

2. Cleaning the Metal Surface

Now that you know what you’re dealing with, cleaning the metal before painting is the next essential step. To clean the surface thoroughly:

• Soap and Water: Use soapy water to remove general dirt and grime.
• Degreaser: For more stubborn grease and oil, use a degreaser suitable for metal, like Haymes MetalPlus Brushable Enamel Thinner.
• Final Rinse: Ensure all cleaning agents are rinsed off, and the surface is completely dry before proceeding.

3. Sanding

Sanding creates a rough surface that allows primer and paint to adhere properly. Using sandpaper (various grits), wire brush, power sander:

• Sand the entire surface to remove any loose paint and smooth out rough areas.
• Focus on removing any rust with a wire brush.
• Finish with fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth base for priming.

If rust is a real issue on this metal, apply MetalPlus Rust Converter Primer Sealer after using the wire brush to neutralise remaining rust. 

4. Primer Application

Choosing the right primer for painted metal is a critical step in ensuring the longevity and durability of your paint job. Haymes Paint’s MetalPlus range includes several primers designed to cater to various needs:

• MetalPlus Universal Primer: Excellent for all metal surfaces, ensuring adhesion and corrosion protection.
• Etch Primers: Perfect for non-ferrous metals and previously painted surfaces in good condition.
• MetalPlus Rust Converter Primer Sealer: Ideal for rusted surfaces, converting and sealing rust.

Primers can be applied using a brush, roller, or spray but make sure you use separate equipment for primers and topcoats to avoid mixing unintentionally.

5. Painting Over Painted Metal

Once your surface is properly prepped and primed, it's time to paint. MetalPlus UV Superior Enamel provides ultimate rust and UV protection and can be tinted to over 15,000 colours.Apply the first coat of paint using even strokes, then allow it to dry completely before applying additional coats as needed, typically two to three coats, following the recommended drying times between each one.

Paint Over Painted Metal with MetalPlus

Painting over painted metal can be a straightforward process if you follow the correct steps and use the right products. At Haymes Paint, we offer a comprehensive range of MetalPlus primers and topcoats designed to deliver exceptional results. Whether you’re dealing with rusted metal, aluminium, or galvanised steel, our products provide superior protection and a beautiful finish.For more expert advice and to pick up all your painting supplies, visit your nearest Haymes Paint Shop. Explore our complete range of MetalPlus products and start your next painting project with confidence.