Cleaning Sheet Metal Before Painting

Rinse and let the metal dry.

Cleaning sheet metal before painting.

Mix water and mild detergent for stubborn areas. Wash the metal thoroughly with a degreasing agent such as trisodium phosphate. For painted surfaces that are in sound condition remove dust with a clean dry cloth de gloss the surface with light sanding and wipe with mineral spirits to ensure good adhesion. No matter what the material it s hard to apply a proper coat of paint if you re brushing over bits and particles.

To properly prepare new metal surfaces use mineral spirits to remove grease and apply a rust inhibitive primer before painting. Sandblasting is an efficient method for removing old paint and rust from a metal object to prepare it for painting. Mix one part white vinegar with two parts warm water and scrub the metal with a soft scrubbing brush. I have generally used acetone with latex gloves to degrease but i am not real knowldgeable about it all.

Clean the surface the goal is to remove any dust dirt or other particulate buildup that could affect the texture of the metal surface. The first step is to clean off loose rust and flaking paint and then apply a rust inhibitive primer. Introduce your secret weapon the secret to painting galvanized steel is white vinegar. Opt for something soft to protect your roof s paint and parts.

Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes and then wipe it away with a wet sponge. For heavier stains and mildew spray white vinegar directly on the area using an empty spray bottle filled with vinegar. For every part water combine 0 05 part mild dish or laundry detergent. Try to remove all of the dirt and grime you can.

You don t need to get down to bare shiny metal just clean off the flakes and powdery surface rust that prevent paint from adhering. However badly rusted metal areas need more prep work and possibly a special primer. If the metal has a rust or mill scale i will typically use one of those bear tex rapid strip wheels to get it down to bare metal first. A steel brush also can get much of the crud off.

For any areas that don t wash away with pressurized water fill a bucket or other container with water. Use a cloth or sponge to clean.