Painting Metal
 Metal
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You can never have too many tips when it comes to painting exterior surfaces. There are clear directions you can follow so that your metal paint job is a successful experience.
Start with the right preparations
Whether for wrought iron, aluminum or other metals, there are particular techniques for painting different surfaces. The process of painting metals such as railings, columns, roof vents and decorative pieces like outdoor lamps is similar to painting wood, which means the most important first step is preparation. Most metals are galvanized and need pre-treatment in order for paint to stick to surfaces.
How do you prime metal surfaces?
Use a motor or cordless drill with wire-wheel attachment to remove deteriorated paint and rust. Chemical strippers are available for iron, although wire wheels are sufficient. Check for mold or mildew. If visible, there is a chance the metal is damaged beyond use. Otherwise, use bleach and water to remove mildew. Remove rust on steel by abrasive blast cleaning or acid pickling. Then, apply a pre-treatment solution such as rust remover, deoxidine or a tannic acid rust converter like Fertan. Next, choose a water-based acrylic galvanized spray primer made especially for metals with rust inhibitors to prime metal surfaces. Using liquid primer (such as normal paint) with a brush for metals is a second choice, but watch out for intricate details. When applied, the primer should appear gray or burnt umber colored. An alternate method for priming small areas is to swab the metal surface with a cloth soaked in regular white vinegar. Polish brass with a solution like Brasso, or sand and prime brass with re-oxide metal primer. Once dried, the primer provides the surface that binds to new paint. Paint lasts for years without chipping or flaking.
You should paint metal surfaces within thirty days of priming. You can count on Kelly-Moore Paints to provide a wide range of home improvement products at the best prices as well as a full set of recommendations for use.
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Dura-Poxy Premium Interior/Exterior Enamels
 Formulated to resist solutions, household chemicals and oils from handling, stains such as coffee, red wine and pens are easily wiped clean. . . |
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Acry-Shield Primer
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