How to Paint Metal Pipes

Even rusted metal pipes can be successfully painted with proper surface preparation.

With proper preparation, paint will stick to metal. Compatible primers and paints also play a key role. Surface contamination is the main culprit that prevents the paint from sticking. Even rusted metal pipes can be painted with proper preparation. Taking just a few minutes to read paint and primer instructions is also important so that you know exactly when you need to apply the top coat and second top coat for best performance.

Things You'll Need

• Steel wool brush
• Primer for your type of metal
• Paint for your type of metal
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Prepare the metal pipe surface by cleaning and scrubbing with a steel wool brush to get rid of all dirt, oil, loose paint and moisture. If the metal is rusted, scrub away as much of it as you can.

2. Prime the metal pipe with metal primer. Read the label carefully to make sure that the primer works for the type of metal you have. There are different primers for different types of metal. For rusted pipes, use a primer with zinc chromate in it.

3. Paint the first coat of the top coat paint as soon as you are able to increase adhesion of the paint to the metal. The primer's instructions will tell you exactly how long you need to wait before you apply the top coat. You would want to ideally use top coat paint made by the same manufacturer of the primer. This ensures that the paint and primer are compatible. Also, read the label carefully to make sure the paint is compatible with the type of metal pipe you have. Use paint with rust inhibitors when painting a rusted metal pipe.

4. Apply the second coat as soon as you are able. Follow the paint's instructions for how long to wait before applying the second coat.

Tips & Warnings

• Sandblast the metal pipe to increase the surface area to which the primer and paint can stick to. This will make the bond between paint and metal stronger.

• You can spray paint and spray primer the pipe instead of painting with a brush. Just make sure the spray paint and spray primer is compatible with your type of metal. Follow the instructions for how long to wait before applying the first and second top coat.

References

• Ask the Builder: Metal Painting Tips

Resources

• Ask the Builder: Rust Spray Paint