The Best Way to Paint Metal

You can paint metal door knobs.

Painting success is greatly determined not just by your painting technique and the paint used, but also by how you prepare the surface for the paint. Even the best paint job won't last if the surface is dirty, chipping or (in the case of metal) rusty. So, if you're painting metal--such as a filing cabinet, door knobs, kitchen cabinets or curtain rods--it's best to take the time to prepare your surface so you can enjoy years of fresh, neat-looking metal.

Things You'll Need

• Dish detergent or trisodium phosphate (TSP)
• Rag
• Bucket
• Wire brush, steel wool, sandpaper or scraper
• Primer
• Paint

Instructions

1. Clean the metal with soap and water; about 1 to 2 tsp. of dish detergent per gallon of water works well. You can also use trisodium phosphate (TSP), diluted according to manufacturer directions. Cleaning will get rid of the dirt, grease and any other grime on your metal.

2. Roughen the surface with a wire brush or steel wool. This will remove chipping metal and rust, as well as help the paint adhere to the surface. You can also use rough sandpaper or a scraper to help with this step. Rinse the dirt, dust and other debris away with water and allow the surface to dry completely.

3. Prepare the surface with a primer designed for metal and with rust-inhibiting features. Spray primer is best since it will leave a smooth finish. Spray outdoors on a calm, dry day if you can, or in a well-ventilated room. Spray in long even strokes and hold the can so it is parallel to the surface, applying the primer on the entire area. It does not have to look nice at this point. Allow the primer to dry before applying the paint, as indicated on the label.

4. Paint the metal with an oil-based paint that is specifically labeled for metal. Again, spray paint will look better than brush painting. Apply the spray paint evenly, as you did with the primer. Apply a second coat if the first coat does not entirely cover the metal as desired.

References

• Ask the Builder: Painting Tips - Metal and Rusted Metal
• Rustoleum: Surface Preparation Guide
• CBS News: A 'Real Simple' Way To Paint