DRJ PAINTING

A freshly painted metal fence or gate can dramatically improve your home's street appeal, providing a crisp, clean frame for your property. But painting metal isn't like painting timber or plasterboard. Metal is a non-porous surface that is constantly under attack from the elements, with its number one enemy being rust. A successful metal paint job is all about creating an impenetrable, rust-proof barrier. Simply painting over a rusty surface is a short-term fix that will fail within a year. A methodical approach focusing on rust removal and specialised primers is the only way to get a professional finish that lasts.

Phase 1: Preparation – The Battle Against Rust

This is the most critical stage. If you don't remove every trace of existing rust and prepare the surface correctly, the rust will continue to grow and will simply push your new paint off from underneath.

1. Remove All Loose Rust and Flaking Paint: Start with a stiff wire brush to vigorously scrub away all loose rust, scale, and flaking paint. For larger, flat areas, a wire brush attachment on a drill or an angle grinder can speed up the process significantly. Your goal is to get back to a solid, stable surface.
2. Sand the Surface: Once the loose rust is gone, use a medium-grit (80-120 grit) sandpaper to sand the entire surface. This will smooth out the edges between the bare metal and the old paint and create a "key" for the new primer to grip onto.
3. Clean Thoroughly: After all that scraping and sanding, the surface will be covered in fine dust and metallic particles. Wash the entire fence or gate down with Sugar Soap and a cloth to remove all grime and sanding residue. Rinse it with clean water and let it dry completely.

Phase 2: Priming – The Non-Negotiable Step

You cannot skip this step. Primer is what creates the bond between the metal and the topcoat, and most importantly, it's what provides the long-term rust protection.

• Choose a Specialised Metal Primer: Do not use a standard wood or wall primer. You must use a primer specifically designed for metal. Look for a product at your local hardware store labelled "Metal Primer" or "Rust Converter Primer." These are available in both spray cans and brush-on formulas.
• Apply to All Bare Metal: At a minimum, you must apply a thorough coat of your metal primer to every single spot that you have sanded back to bare metal. This seals the metal from air and moisture, stopping rust in its tracks.
• Consider a Full Prime: For the ultimate long-lasting job, applying a full coat of metal primer over the entire surface (including the old, sound paint) is the professional standard.

Phase 3: Applying the Topcoat

With the metal protected, you can now apply your final colour. Again, you need to use a paint specifically formulated for metal.

• Select a Durable Metal Paint: Choose a high-quality topcoat designed for exterior metal. Brands like Hammerite or the Dulux Metalshield range are excellent choices available in Australia. These paints are formulated to be tough, flexible, and provide an extra layer of weather and rust protection. They come in a range of finishes, from gloss to satin and even a textured "hammered" look.
• Use a Brush for Best Results: For fences and gates with intricate details, a good quality paintbrush is the best tool. It allows you to work the paint into all the nooks and crannies. For large, flat metal surfaces, a small roller can work well.
• Apply Two Thin Coats: Always apply two thin, even coats rather than one thick one. A thick coat is more likely to run and drip, and it won't cure as hard. Allow the first coat to dry completely as per the manufacturer's instructions before applying the second.