Best Way To Paint Metal: Instructions & Type of Paint

Painting metal surfaces can breathe new life into outdoor furniture, railings, and doors, and learning the Best Way to Paint Metal can be especially useful for homeowners.

Whether tackling a DIY project or looking for durable, rust-resistant finishes, the right paint and preparation are essential for long-lasting results.

In this article, we’ll cover the best types of paint for metal, how to prep specific metal surfaces, and FAQs to help you achieve a professional finish.

Best “Type of Paint” to Use for Metal:

When choosing the right paint for metal, consider the following options:

1. Oil-Based Paints: Oil-based paints are a “first choice” known for their durability and are especially suitable for exterior use. They adhere well to metal surfaces and are resistant to chipping and peeling.
2. Latex/Acrylic Paints: Water-based acrylics are versatile and easy to clean but may require a primer for optimal adhesion.
3. Spray Paints: These offer even coverage and are ideal for intricate or uneven metal surfaces.

Choose a paint specifically formulated for metal to ensure longevity and protection from elements like moisture and rust.

Best “Paint Brands” for “Exterior” Metal

Outdoor metal furniture, Decorative Artwork, and Porch Railings usually have intricate details and are exposed to harsh weather.

The best paints for these types of applications include the following Enamel Spray Paints, which are Oil Based:

• Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Protective Enamel: Highly durable and rust-resistant, ideal for outdoor metal.
• Krylon ColorMaster Paint + Primer: Offers excellent adhesion and weather resistance.
• BEHR Premium Direct to Metal Paint: Designed for direct application to metal without a primer.

These weather-resistant paints provide long-lasting finishes, making them perfect for outdoor use.

Best Paint for “Metal Doors” (Roll-On)

Metal doors require paints that can withstand frequent use and exposure to weather. Our recommended paint includes:

• Sherwin-Williams Pro Industrial DTM Acrylic: Provides a smooth, durable finish.
• Benjamin Moore Ultra Spec HP DTM: Excellent adhesion and rust prevention.
• Rust-Oleum Door Paint: Specifically designed for metal doors, available in various colors.

Best Paint for “Metal Roof” (Roll-On)

Metal roofs require paints that resist corrosion and weathering. Look for:

• Kool Seal Premium Roof Paint: Reflective properties to reduce heat.
• Valspar Metal Building Paint: Resists fading and chalking.
• Sherwin-Williams Roof Coating: Long-lasting protection against UV rays and moisture.

Can You Paint a metal roof? Yes, you can, as long as you have the right equipment and follow the proper steps. 

Here’s a great article from the professionals at RPS Metal Roofing, including eight steps on How to paint a metal roof.

Note: Painting a metal roof involves considerable safety measures and extensive labor. Before proceeding, consider getting estimates from reliable area paint contractors.

Best “General Purpose” Spray Paint for Metal (Indoor or Outdoor)

Spray paint is a convenient and best option for Indoor or Outdoor small projects or detailed surfaces. The best spray paints for any metal include:

• Rust-Oleum Universal All Surface Spray Paint: Works on various surfaces with a smooth finish.
• Krylon Fusion All-In-One: No additional primer is needed, and Krylon Fusion all-in-one spray paint is ideal for indoor and outdoor projects – and available at Amazon
• Montana Gold Acrylic Professional Spray Paint: High-quality coverage with vibrant colors.

Best Metal Spray Paint to Prevent Rust (Wet Conditions)

Rust can compromise the integrity of metal surfaces. For rust prevention, consider these paints:

• Rust-Oleum “Rust Reformer”: Neutralizes rust and prevents further corrosion.
• POR-15 Rust Preventive Coating: Seals rust-prone areas with a durable, waterproof finish.
• Hammerite Rust Cap Paint: Protects against rust and offers a hammered metal finish.

Best Metal Paint Primer (Stand alone Primer)

Note:  Using a high-quality primer is crucial for painting metal. Top primers include the following: 

Most Spray Paints now include the Primer and Paint in one spray can; however, if you choose to use a spray paint without primer (2-In-1), consider these best Spray Primer Paints for Metal:

• Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer: Suitable for all metal surfaces, offering excellent adhesion.
• Rust-Oleum Clean Metal Primer: Prevents rust and ensures a smooth base for painting.
• KILZ Premium Primer: Blocks stains and provides a solid foundation for paint.

How to Paint Garage Door 

Garage doors require paint that can withstand direct sun and wear and tear. We recommend using Latex paint with a “Satin” finish, which provides a Medium Sheen and reflects the sun without looking too glossy. 

However, if your garage door faces direct sun/southern exposure, consider using Semi-Gloss for more durability and protection from the Sun.

Tips for Painting Garage Door:

• Tape and Mask off Garage Door Jambs, Weatherstrip, and Siding. Protect from spills with a drop cloth.
• Use a Spray Can with Primer to lightly touch any exposed Rust spots.
• If possible, use an “Airless Sprayer,” which provides the most effective paint coverage for garage door uneven surfaces. We use a Graco Magnum Sprayer for this application.
• Before painting, close and stop the garage door approximately halfway (two sets of garage panels exposed). This allows you to paint standing rather than kneeling, saving your back – and your knees 🙂

• Brush & Roller Method – Use a 2 or 3″ Brush to Paint the individual garage panels’ “inset border” first (Below), allowing them to dry for 30 minutes.  
• Then, return to paint the remainder of the garage door with a medium nap paint roller. This process ensures that the recessed panels get full paint coverage and a smooth finish.

Best Metal Paint for Garage Door:

• Behr Premium Plus Ultra Exterior Paint: Durable and easy to clean.
• Valspar Duramax Exterior Paint: Resists fading and provides long-lasting protection.
• Sherwin Williams “Duration” Acrylic Exterior Latex Paint:  More expensive, but One of the most durable paints on the market for the price, only sold through authorized dealers.

How to Paint a Garage Door Video (Ace Hardware)

How To Paint Metal: Instructions & Tips

How to “Prep Metal” for Spray Paint

Proper metal preparation is key to a flawless painted finish:

1. Clean the Surface: Use soap and water.
2. Sand the Metal: Smooth the surface and remove old paint or corrosion. If the existing paint is in good condition, rough the paint surface with light-grit sandpaper (240 grit).

Note:  If the metal has rust or rough edges, use a wire brush rather than grit sandpaper to remove rust, followed by light sanding to smooth surfaces.

1. Apply Primer: Use a good spray primer specifically designed for metal to ensure good adhesion and durability. (Note:  Many spray paints now include primer: 2-In-1)
2. Tape and Cover: Protect surrounding areas to avoid overspray.
3. Test the Paint: Perform a test spray to check color and coverage.

Tools Required for Painting Metal

The right tools are essential for achieving a professional finish on metal surfaces.

Standard tools include sandpaper or a wire brush for surface preparation, a quality paintbrush or roller for application, and painter’s tape to mask off edges.

If you’re using spray paint, invest in a top-quality brand and a spray can with a trigger handle rather than a push-button spray tip to ensure even application and reduce hand fatigue.

Protect Other Materials When Painting Metal

Drop cloths or plastic sheeting protect floors and nearby materials from paint splatters or overspray.

Cover any adjacent surfaces, such as glass, wood, or concrete, with protective materials like cardboard or masking tape. Proper preparation and protection prevent messes and ensure a cleaner, more polished result.

Best Outdoor Conditions to Paint Metal 

Choosing the right outdoor conditions is vital for a successful painting project.

If you use spray paint outdoors, wind is considered your worst enemy. Wait for a calm day with little to No Wind.

Ideal weather includes temperatures between 55°F and 85°F, low humidity, and minimal wind.

Avoid painting in direct sunlight or when rain is expected within 24 hours.

When possible, set up your workspace in a shaded area to prevent the paint from drying too quickly, which can cause uneven application.

How to Clean Up After Painting Metal

After completing your metal painting project, clean brushes or rollers immediately with mineral spirits for oil-based paints or soapy water for water-based paints.

For spray paint projects, ensure the spray can nozzle is cleared by turning the can upside down and spraying until only air comes out.

If you used an Airless Sprayer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to clear any residual paint from the paint gun and hose.

Dispose of used paint and materials according to local regulations to maintain a safe and eco-friendly workspace.

Frequently Asked Questions:  (FAQ) DIY Painting Metal Yourself

1. Do I need to sand metal before painting? Light sanding with 240 grit sandpaper will roughen the metal, allowing the primer to stick better, whereas 120 Grit removes old paint, rust, and imperfections, ensuring better adhesion and a smoother finish.  In extreme conditions of removing rust or rough edges, a 60-grit sandpaper may be neccessary.
2. Can I paint directly over rusted metal? Removing rust first is best, but rust converters like Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer can be applied directly to stabilize rust before painting.
3. What type of brush should I use for painting metal? Use high-quality synthetic brushes for water-based paints and natural bristle brushes for oil-based paints.
4. How many coats of paint do you need for metal? Two to three coats of spray paint are required for even coverage and durability. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
5. Can I use regular wall paint on metal surfaces? Wall paint is not designed for metal and may not adhere correctly. Use paint specifically formulated for metal.
6. How long does metal paint take to dry? Drying times vary by paint type, but most metal paints dry to the touch in 1-2 hours and cure fully within 24-48 hours.

Conclusion

Painting metal surfaces requires the right tools, preparation, and products to achieve a durable, professional finish.

Whether you’re working on outdoor furniture, doors, or a metal roof, selecting the best paint and following proper techniques will ensure your project stands the test of time.

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Reputable Metal Paint Resources:

1. Rust-Oleum – How to Paint Metal
2. The Home Depot – Tips for Painting Metal Surfaces
3. This Old House – Painting Metal Made Easy
4. Krylon – Metal Painting Guide
5. DIY Network – Best Practices for Painting Metal