How to Paint Aluminum Patio Covers

While there are many types of patio covers in use on homes today, aluminum is the choice that is probably the easiest to maintain. Since aluminum will not rust, there is no need to be concerned with the elements creating this problem as it does with other types of metal. This is especially important if you live near the ocean and your patio cover is exposed to the combination of sunshine and salt water. Aluminum is also not susceptible to damage from termites. Therefore, there is no need for expensive and continuing treatments to prevent an infestation as there is with wood. Unlike fabric awnings, aluminum is very durable and will not tear on a windy day. Without these concerns, about the only thing that routinely needs to be addressed is cleaning. Even cleaning is a simple process that can be accomplished with a little elbow grease along with some soap, water and a good scrub brush.


Even though the likelihood of aluminum patio covers ever needing painting is slight, sometimes a change in an outdoor paint scheme will make this project a necessity. When this or some other reason does arise, follow the simple steps below and you will end this task with a result that will surely be a pleasure to behold for years to come.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Soap
• Garden hose
• Scrub brush
• Primer
• Paint
• Painting tools

1. As with any painting project, surface preparation is the key to a quality result. This is where that soap, water and scrub brush we mentioned earlier comes into play once again. Utilizing these tools, wash and thoroughly rinse off your patio cover. You can now take the rest of the day off and allow the cover to dry for at least 24 hours.

2. This next step involves choosing and applying a quality oil based metal primer. Do not use a latex primer for this application. Oil based primers create a bond between the oxidized aluminum and the finish paint coat that cannot be accomplished with a latex product. Ask the paint store to tint the primer in the same color family as the finish paint. This will provide better coverage of the finish paint thus reducing the amount of paint needed. For best results, a general rule is to thin the primer with one pint of paint thinner for every gallon of oil base primer. However, follow the manufacturer's recommendation if different from this recommendation.

3. Follow the primer manufacturer's recommendation on the necessary drying time needed before applying the finish coat. The general rule of thumb is that the finish coat should be applied within 48 hours of the primer coat for best adhesion.

4. Lastly, choose and apply a high quality acrylic latex exterior house paint following the directions of the manufacturer. High quality acrylic latex paint will contain a higher volume of acrylic paint resin. This will produce a better quality and longer lasting paint job.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not apply the paint in direct sunlight. Therefore, the early morning or early evening will produce the best results when it comes time to alter the color of those patio covers.

Resources

• Painting Plastic Patio Furniture