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How to paint metal

An intricate metal door being spray-painted white

Overview

Over the years, metal gates can rust and the paint becomes flaky. But it's easy to give an old metal gate or any other metal decorations you have around the house a facelift. By following our simple steps, you can give any rusted or fading metal objects a new lease of life.

Tools and materials

Tools

Materials

Steps

1Remove the old paint

Before you start, make sure you put down a drop sheet and wear a dust mask and gloves. There are a number of ways that you can strip the paint off. You can use a wire brush to scrape off all of the old paint. The other option is to use a cordless drill with a wire brush attachment, which is quicker and easier but you'll need to put on your earmuffs. Or you can use sandpaper and some elbow grease to remove the paint. 
Person brushing metal object.

2Spray paint the metal with primer

After you've removed all of the flaky paint, you're ready to paint. For wrought iron or steel in severe conditions, you can use a primer. For aluminium and brass, use an SLS etch primer. If you choose to spray paint, avoid windy days and shake the can for at least 2 minutes before using it. When you're spraying, use light even coats to cover the metal and slowly build up the layers until the metal is evenly covered.
Person spray painting metal object.

3Use a brush to paint your metal

If you plan to use a brush to paint your metal with epoxy enamel, stir the paint properly and pour it into another container. This will make sure the paint doesn't dry on the lip of the tin of paint, which stops the lid from fitting properly. You can have this enamel paint tinted to the colour of your choice. Avoid putting too much paint on your brush or it'll run or drip on the floor.


Person painting object with paint brush.

4Apply the second coat

Make sure your finished product looks the best it can by applying a second coat. Always read the instructions on tin to find out how long to leave the first coat to dry, before you can apply the second coat. After you've applied the second coat, clean your brush using turpentine, so it's ready to use for your next paint job.
Person painting object with paint brush.

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.