If you have decided to give a new life to your rusty metal furniture or any metal décor item at your home, then the first question that might have popped into your mind is which paint you must buy for a metal surface? When you are painting a metal surface, there are two options to choose from- water-based and oil-based paints.
Read along to find out which paint to use to refurbish your old metal furniture and décor items.
Oil-based metal paints
If you are painting your metal fences, outdoor furniture or window frames, then oil-based metal paints are your best option. They are resistant to stains and marks, so it becomes easy to maintain them. It is okay if you don’t use a primer before applying an oil-based metal paint. However, if you want a professional finish to your final product, then you must invest in a primer. Some of the disadvantages of choosing an oil-based metal paint are that they are highly flammable, have a nasty odour and can get expensive as they fade easily.
Water-based metal paints
People who cannot stand the toxic fumes and the unpleasant odour of oil-based metal paints must check out water-based metal paints. In comparison to oil-based paints, they are easy to apply as you can buy spray paint for metal which anyone can use. Water-based metal paints are safe and convenient as they dry quickly, don’t have a nasty odour and aren’t flammable.
Unlike in the case of oil-based metal paints, you can’t skip using a primer when you are using a water-based metal paint as it will cause the metal to rust soon. Remember to use an oil-based primer to avoid metal rust. Water-based metal paints are budget-friendly and don’t fade easily. Hence, many people are choosing them over the traditional oil-based metal paints. Water-based metal paints are an ideal choice for painting indoor furniture like bed frames, night tables and metal décor pieces.
Which metal paint finish to choose?
- Choosing the right metal finish makes all the difference in the world. Before choosing the right finish, try to understand what the metal surface will be exposed to? Will it see a lot of traffic? Will it be kept indoors or outdoors? Will it be exposed to extreme weather conditions?
- Once you have a fair idea of the above questions, then you can decide whether you want to go for glossy, matte or semi-gloss metal polish.
- For surfaces that will witness heavy traffic and will be cleaned often, going for a glossy finish that is easier to clean is ideal. Whereas, if you feel that the metal surface will not see a lot of traffic, you can consider going for a rich looking matte finish.
- For people who want the best of both worlds, opt for a semi-gloss finish that is durable, easy to maintain and looks stylish.
What are some handy tips to keep in mind while painting a metal surface?
- If you are using oil-based metal paints, then make sure that you are painting in a well-ventilated room and are wearing protective gear.
- To get a smooth finish, you must clean your metal surface and scrape it if you notice any old peeling paint or marks.
- Consider removing the rust from your old metals and invest in a high-quality rust-proof primer before you use spray paint for metal. This will protect the metal that you are planning to refurbish from rusting.
Visit the Asian Paints website to get your hands on the best metal polish, paints and primers that will help you give your old metal furniture a new life.
