Painting metal surfaces can be the finishing touches on a new build or can breathe new life into rusted, worn-out items. Whether you’re dealing with steel, aluminium, or wrought or galvanised iron, the key to a long-lasting finish is proper preparation and the right products. Since 1935, Haymes Paint has been perfecting interior and exterior paint products, ensuring you get the best quality for every project. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prep and paint metal surfaces using the Haymes Paint MetalPlus range. 

Understanding Metal Surfaces

One of the bigger parts of knowing how to paint metal is understanding the different types of metals you might be working with and their specific needs. This can seem like a daunting learning curve, but is generally pretty simple:

• Steel: Commonly used in gates, fences, and garden furniture. Prone to rust if not properly protected.
• Aluminium: Found in window frames, railings, and some outdoor furniture. Requires a different primer due to its non-ferrous nature.
• Wrought Iron: Often used for decorative fences and furniture. Its intricate designs may need extra attention during preparation.
• Galvanised Iron: Used in roofs, gutters, and garages. Coated with zinc to prevent rust, but still needs proper priming and painting.

Preparation

Proper preparation is key to a lasting finish when painting metal surfaces. Follow these steps to get your metal surface ready:

1. Cleaning: Remove dirt, grease, and old paint using a suitable cleaner. For stubborn grease, use Haymes MetalPlus Brushable Enamel Thinner.
2. Rust Removal: Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any loose rust. For more lightly rusted areas, apply MetalPlus Rust Converter Primer Sealer to neutralise the rust and provide a solid base for priming.
3. Smoothing: Sand the surface to ensure it's smooth and ready for priming. This helps with paint adhesion.
4. Final Cleaning: Wipe the surface clean with a cloth to remove any remaining dust and debris.

A Primer on Priming

Priming prevents rust and ensures proper paint adhesion. Choose the right primer from our MetalPlus range based on your metal type:

• For Bare Metals:
• MetalPlus Etch Primer: Perfect for steel, aluminium, and galvanised iron. Provides excellent adhesion and corrosion protection.
• For Rusted Surfaces:
• MetalPlus Rust Converter Primer Sealer: Converts residual rust into a stable surface and primes it for painting.
• For Previously Painted Surfaces:
• MetalPlus Universal Primer: Ideal for mixed and previously painted surfaces, ensuring uniform adhesion and protection.

Next Steps

Once prepped and primed, it’s time to paint. Here’s how to get a flawless finish:

1. Selecting the Paint:

• MetalPlus UV Superior Enamel: This premium enamel topcoat offers ultimate rust and UV protection. It’s available in a range of pre-tinted Colorbond® and industry-popular colours.

1. Application Method: Depending on your project size and detail, you can use a brush, roller, or spray. Ensure each coat is even and covers the surface thoroughly.

• Brushing: Use for small or detailed areas. Ensure even strokes and avoid overloading the brush.
• Rolling: Ideal for larger flat surfaces. Use a roller with a 4-5mm nap for best results.
• Spraying: For a smooth, even finish, follow the product’s specific spraying instructions.

1. Coating:

• Apply at least two coats of MetalPlus UV Superior Enamel for optimal protection. Allow the first coat to dry for 16 hours before applying the second coat.
• Each coat should be thin and even to avoid drips and runs.
• After the final coat, inspect for missed spots or imperfections. Touch up as necessary to ensure complete coverage. Once dry, your metal surface will look as good as new and be well-protected against the elements.

Prioritise Safety When Painting:

When prepping and painting metal, safety should be a priority. Here are some essential safety tips:

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear gloves, a mask, and safety glasses to protect yourself from dust, chemicals, and paint fumes.
• Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation in your work area to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
• Handling Solvents: Use solvents like Haymes MetalPlus Brushable Enamel Thinner with care, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Start Your Project Today

By following these steps and using the Haymes Paint MetalPlus range, you can achieve a professional and long-lasting finish on any metal surface. For expert advice and to pick up all the supplies you need, visit your local Haymes Paint Shop or shop online. Transform your metal surfaces today with Haymes Paint, Australia’s trusted name in quality paint since 1935.