How to Paint Over Black Metal

Change exterior fences by painting over black metal to add a pop of color.

Painting over metal allows you to give old fences, patio furniture and play structures a new life without spending too much money. It also extend the life of the metal by removing rust and cleaning your item to prevent further decay. Just like painting walls, black metal can be a little more difficult to paint over. However, using the right tools and following a simple process, you can cover over black metal with any other color, white included.

Things You'll Need

• Steel wool
• Emery cloth
• Sand paper
• Gasoline
• Red lead primer
• Old paint brushes
• Exterior paint
• Enamel paint

Instructions

1. Remove old black paint from the metal item using steel wool and emery cloth. Scrape and sand the item until all the black paint is removed and you are left with the original color of the metal.

2. Clean the metal surface with gasoline to remove any grease that may remain on the surface. New paint will not stick as well, or be as durable if it is painted over a dirty, oily surface.

3. Apply a coat of metal primer to the clean surface. Use a red lead primer on the whole surface of your item. Pick an old brush for this step as this type of paint does not mix well with other.

4. Paint your item of the new color of your choice choice for this part. Use an exterior paint for this step. Leave it to dry completely before applying a second coat, if needed.

5. Apply an enamel as your finishing coat to better protect the metal and give it either a matte or glossy look, depending on the type of enamel.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash galvanized iron with a mixture of 2 oz. of copper chloride, 2 oz. of copper nitrate, 2 oz. salicylic ammonia, 2 oz. of crude hydrochloric acid, and 1 gallon of soft water and then rinse with fresh water before applying your primer.

• Treat aluminum by scrubbing it with a non-alkaline cleanser before priming with a coat of zinc chromate. Only after this step can you add a coat of exterior paint.

• Use spray can exterior paint if you are short in time or find it difficult to paint with a brush. Hold the can a foot away from the item when spraying to ensure an even paint.

• Wear a mask and use gloves to protect yourself from gases and toxic products.

• Paint your metal piece outside or in a well aerated room. Put plastic sheets or newspapers under your item to protect the floor.

References

• Discover Live Steam Magazine; "Painting Steel: Tips and Tricks"; Lee Wright; December 25, 2005
• Very Handyman: Metal Painting Info