How to Paint Outdoor Aluminum

Use primer on aluminum before painting.

Whether you paint aluminum siding on a house, shed or outdoor furniture, it gives the metal a fresh look. Outdoor aluminum may form rust stains, along with accumulations of dirt and dust over the metal surface. The rust needs to be removed and the aluminum cleaned before painting starts. For a successful paint project, use primer and paint made especially for metal siding.

Things You'll Need

• 1/4 cup non-phosphate powdered detergent
• Bucket
• Sponge
• Stiff brush
• Garden hose
• Alkyd-based primer
• Paintbrush or roller
• 100-percent acrylic paint for metal siding

Instructions

1. Mix 1/4 cup of non-phosphate powdered detergent into a large bucket of water. Wet a sponge with the mixture and wash it over the aluminum. Scrub the aluminum with a stiff brush to loosen any dirt and rust on the surface. Rinse the aluminum with a garden hose. Allow the aluminum to dry over a two-day period.

2. Wet a paintbrush or roller with an alkyd-based primer. Brush or roll the primer onto the aluminum, starting at the top and working down. Allow it to dry for two hours.

3. Apply a 100-percent acrylic latex paint to the aluminum. Brush or roll the paint onto the aluminum the same way as the primer. Allow the paint to dry for one to two hours, and then apply a second coat.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not apply primer or paint to outdoor aluminum during windy or sunny days. Wait for an overcast day with no chance of rain.

• Purchase alkyd-based primer and acrylic paint for metal siding at home improvement stores.

References

• HomeTips.com: How to Paint Aluminum Siding
• Ask the Builder: How to Paint Aluminum Siding