Remove grease, dust and other contamination from the metal. Loose or poorly bonded old paint should also be removed.
Treat corrosion according to its severity using an appropriate preparation method.
Once the surface is clean, dry and sound, apply a suitable metal primer and finish coat for the intended environment.
Identify the metal
Steel, galvanized metal and aluminum can require different preparation and primers. Remove grease, dirt and loose coating and assess rust and defects. New metal may retain protective oils or manufacturing residue. Looking clean does not prove the surface is degreased and ready.
Choose a system
Select primer and topcoat for the metal and exposure conditions. Pay attention to edges and welds outdoors, where corrosion risks are higher. A small trial can help assess compatibility. Ordinary wall paint is not a substitute for a metal-protection system; coat the prepared surface before it becomes contaminated again.
System checklist
- Identify the material and existing finish.
- Distinguish interior and exterior use.
- Read technical and safety instructions, especially cleaning and waste handling.
Can galvanized metal use the same primer as steel?
Not automatically. Check the product's compatibility and preparation for galvanizing. An unsuitable primer can cause adhesion problems; identifying the substrate is the first step in choosing the system.