How to Paint Aluminum Posts
Painting aluminum posts is a bit challenging and will require some concentration and preparation. Aluminum resists corrosion but is difficult to paint because of its oxide covering. Paints and coatings do not adhere well. The key is to remove the oxide before painting.
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Things You'll Need
- Old newspapers or old bed sheet
- Damp cloth
- Dry cloth
- Alkaline solution
- Deoxidizer (acidic solution to remove the oxide)
- Conversion coating (brand names include Alodine, Iridite, Chem Film)
- Reverse osmosis water (RO)
- Oven
- Rough sandpaper
- Epoxy or polyester coating
- Epoxy primer and polyurethane topcoat
Instructions
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1
Lay out the newspapers or bed sheet. Place the aluminum posts on top of the newspapers or bed sheet gently to avoid any personal injury.
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2
Use the alkaline solution to remove any excess materials like oil and grease by rubbing the surface of the aluminum posts. Rinse with tap water and dry.
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3
Carefully distribute the deoxidizer onto the post to remove the oxide from the aluminum. Follow through with another rinse of tap water and wipe to dry.
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4
Apply the conversion coating to give the aluminum post a good base to hold the paint well. Give the post another rinse of water once this is done, and then rinse the aluminum post in reverse osmosis water (RO) to seal.
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5
Set the oven to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, place the post inside. Keep an eye on it and take the aluminum post out once the metal is rid of water. The key is to evaporate all of the water. If your posts do not fit in the oven, use compressed air to completely evaporate the water.
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6
Coat the entire outside base of the aluminum post with epoxy primer. Let dry according to manufacturer's instructions. Coat the outside surface with a polyurethane topcoat for best results. Wait a full day before handling the aluminum posts.
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Tips & Warnings
When the weather permits, do this activity outdoors for better air circulation and larger work space.
Wear the proper gloves to protect your hands when handling the chemicals.
Wear goggles and a mouth mask to protect your eyes and avoid inhaling aluminum and paint particles.
