Easily Use Rustoleum Spray Paint For Galvanized Metal (DIY)

Before we explore the different types of Rustoleum paint for galvanised metal, what exactly do both terms mean?  

Originally, they used whale oil, but in 2022 that's a thing of the past. Instead, they use polyurethanes, epoxy paint, and latexes, to name a few, in order to enhance and create long-lasting paint.  

Homeowners may decide to paint their metal decks outside, use on garage doors to spruce them up, or to add some color to their homes. It’s important that when you go to spray, you’re using the right tools on metal. 

Using rust oleum Universal Paint and etching primer is not going to work - the zinc on the metal is going to reject the mix of primer and paint and will lead to peeling shortly after. Therefore, it's important to know what kind of paint you can use.  

The short answer: yes, with caution.  

Galvanised metal is known to reject paints on its surface. That will be down to the layer of zinc, which will eventually lead to the peeling or cracking of paint. Acidic-based paints are going to speed up the corrosion, leading to rust. Oil-based are going to slip right off, and once dry, they’ll just peel.  

The pure zinc coating provides maximum corrosion resistance and corrosion protection through galvanic protection and excellent adhesion and durability on the metal.

Along with excellent adhesion, it will also react with oxygen in the air to form zinc oxide and zinc carbonate.

Ideally, you’re looking at using latex or acrylic-based paints for galvanised metal.  

Using cold galvanizing compound spray paint on metal will simply thicken the layer of zinc. You can use galvanizing paint because it won’t do very much in the way of damaging the first layer.

If you’re attempting to re-galvanize, you should use primers and compound spray galvanizer on the metal rather than the paint.  

We know what types of paint we can use, but as far as compound spray painting metal, is there a way to make it simple? Below is a simple guide on how to use rust oleum or Rustoleum on the metal.

Before we start, you need to be using the correct paint - don’t use Alkyld-based spray paints. They won’t adhere to the surface and you'll waste your time. Instead, use acrylic latex paints that will easily stay on the metal. To paint your metal surface, follow this guide below: 

If it’s a garage door, you should not touch or use it until it’s fully cured.  

It’s very important that you do not scrape old paint off of metal, as you run the risk of scratching the zinc layer.

To remove old paint, use isopropyl alcohol and rub it into the paint. Once thinned, scrub away with a sponge, or for tough paint, use a lacquer thinner. 

Using a spray can is the most effective way of using rust oleum or Rustoleum paint, but you should make sure it’s primed correctly by shaking it vigorously for 60 seconds. This removes any congealed paint and allows it to flow smoothly.  

Don’t spray rust oleum closer than 8 inches to the metal. Aim to be about 16 inches away, using a back-and-forward motion to apply.  

On the second coat, you should be careful not to overspray on one area, which can lead to peeling.  

If you want to make sure the paint will adhere, vinegar will promote adhesion by reacting to the metal.  

Galvanised metal has always been tricky to paint. But knowing what types of paint to use and how to correctly spray will save you time and energy in the future.

Touching up your galvanized metal isn’t as difficult as you think, and now you can go forward with your DIY projects!