Spray paint is actually the cheapest painting method and this provides a smooth, even finish that is quite hard to achieve using a paint brush. As a matter of fact, it takes 1.2 times more paint to use a roller and 2.2 times more paint to use a brush to cover the same surface. If you want to cut costs, using a spray paint is a practical way to save money and time on your home improvement projects.
The good news is, learning how to apply a spray paint on a metal object is not that difficult at all. You are very much capable of doing this task at your homes. Here are some ways on how to spray paint metal objects correctly:
1. Before starting the task, ensure that you are clad in old work clothing or a pair of overalls. As much as possible, wear a face mask and protective eye wear to protect your eyes from paint dust and rust particles during the sanding process. Also wear a pair of gloves so that you won't paint your hands.
2. Make sure you work in a well-ventilated area for you to avoid excessive inhalation of some paint particles. Avoid working in freezing temperatures, excessive wind and high humidity.
3. Also ensure that your working area is clean, otherwise, dust particles can fly around and stick on the painted surface when it is wet.
4. Eliminate any chipped paint, surface rust or scratches in the metal work by rubbing it over using a sandpaper. You can also use a drill with a circular wire brush type attachment to deal with more challenging badly rusted items.
5. Remove any dirt or grime on the metal surface and make sure that it is totally clean before painting. Cleaning the metal surface can improve paint adhesion and finish.
6. Make sure all parts of the metal object that you don't want to get painted are entirely wrapped with masking tape. This is because spray paint tends to spread over surfaces.
7. Apply primer first on the metal surface. A primer is a preparatory coating that is put on the materials before painting. The primer will make the paint adhere to the metal and will decrease chances of rust formation and peeling paint. It also enhances paint durability and gives extra protection for the material being painted.
8. Next, shake the can thoroughly for at least one or two minutes to guarantee that the contents have been mixed properly before you begin painting the metal. To make sure that the nozzle on the can is perfectly working, spray a little amount of the paint on a rag or a piece of cardboard and check if the paint lands evenly.
9. Hold the tip of the can 12-14 inches away from the metal object's surface. Spray the paint in a constant and quick even pattern until the whole surface of the object is covered both inside and out. Take note that you have to hold the spray paint can at the appropriate distance from the object because holding it very near will result in thick coats and overlap, while holding it very far will cause in uneven coverage.
10. Wipe down the primed surface using a clean cloth once the primer has completely dried. You can continue to apply light coats of paint to the metal object until you have accomplished your intended outcome.
11. Take off the masking tape the moment the paint has dried and attach any parts of the metal object that has been removed before you started painting.
Spray paint is a natural choice for metal and even plastic objects. Anyone can easily carry out this type of work as long you have the right tools, equipment and paint for the job. Before starting your spray painting task, it is must that you read thoroughly the directions in the can. Follow obediently the safety tips and recoat times. With a little patience and the necessary caution, you will be delighted at how fresh looking your newly painted metal object will be.
For more Metal Working Tips and Metal Abrasives Products, visit Smith and ARROW Australia.
No comments:
Post a Comment