Aluminum is a soft and lightweight metal used for siding, boats, airplanes, lamp posts and many other objects. When it comes to painting, aluminum can be a difficult metal to work with. Paint has a hard time creating a good bond with the surface and peels soon afterward. The key to painting aluminum is to prepare it properly.
Instructions
1. Remove any paint left from a former paint job if necessary. Scrape as much paint as you can from the object. You can also use a pressure washer, constantly moving the hose and aiming it at an angle, to remove paint more quickly. Sand the edges of any remaining paint to create a smooth surface.
2. Clean the surface with water and a strong water-soluble cleaner like Formula 409. Use a sponge to scrub off all dirt and debris from the surface. The paint will not adhere if there is any dust on the aluminum surface. If it is a large surface, such as a house, start from the bottom and split the siding into sections, rinsing with a hose as you go. Do one final rinse at the end to ensure that all the dirt is gone.
3. Purchase acid etch primer from a paint store or automobile store. Ask the salesperson for directions on apply this etch to aluminum if directions are not already on the packaging. Application instructions differ for different etches on different metals. This will roughen the surface so the paint will be more likely to stick.
4. Apply an epoxy primer to boats, decks or other items exposed to large amounts of moisture. This coat will resist any corrosion that may occur.
5. Paint the surface within 24 hours of putting down the primer or primers. Make sure, however, that the primer is dry before application.
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