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How to paint metal

A freshly metal painted white mailbox.

Overview

Painting metal can breathe new life into furniture, fixtures, or outdoor features, giving them a fresh and durable finish. The key to a professional-looking result is proper preparation, the right metal primer, and careful application. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve a smooth and long-lasting finish.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Scraping the paint

Before painting metal, it’s essential to remove any old, flaky paint from the surface to ensure the new coat adheres properly. Use a scraper or a wire brush to lift and remove loose paint. If the surface has rust, go over it with a wire brush or wire wheel attachment to remove as much as possible. Once the surface is clean, wipe it down with a dry cloth to remove dust and debris.
A person wearing black gloves is using a scraper tool to remove any old, flaky paint from the surface to ensure the new coat adheres properly.

2Using the rust converter

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.
A person in blue gloves and a red shirt is applying a rust converter to a metal surface to neutralize and prevent further corrosion.

3Apply a metal primer

Using a metal primer is crucial, as it helps the topcoat adhere properly and provides a smooth base for painting. Choose a metal primer specifically designed for metal surfaces. If using spray primer, hold the can about 15–20 cm from the surface and apply light, even coats. If using a brush, apply smooth, even strokes to avoid brush marks. Ensure the primer dries completely before moving on to the next step, following the drying time recommended by the manufacturer.
A Bunnings Team Member is applying a metal primer as it helps the topcoat adhere properly and provides a smooth base for painting.

4Apply the topcoat

Once the primer has dried, it’s time to apply the topcoat. Shake or stir the paint well before application to ensure an even consistency. Apply thin, even coats using a brush, roller, or spray can, depending on the type of paint you are using. If using spray paint, maintain a consistent distance of 15–20 cm from the surface for an even finish. Always allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next to prevent drips and achieve a smooth, professional look. Applying multiple thin coats will give a better finish than one thick coat.

After applying the final coat, allow the paint to cure fully according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This step is important to ensure the finish is durable and long-lasting. Avoid handling or using the item until the paint has completely hardened.

A Bunnings team member is applying a white topcoat onto a metal pole.

5Now that you’ve painted metal…

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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.