What to use to paint aluminum?

slydog · Nov 17, 2004

I am planning to paint some .032 sheet aluminum so that the paint will stick and not peel off. Can anyone suggest the best process and type of paint to use? It will be used on a Christmas float, so HOPEFULLY it won't really be exposed to the elements, but as we will be re-using the sign portion of this box, I want it to hold up as well as possible. I'll post some pictures of what I am doing as soon as I get some taken. Basically, I am taking the attached logo, and turning it into an 8' by 8' light box. The aluminum will be 12" wide, and wrap around the outside of two of these hearts, forming the sides of the box.

Thanks all,
Ken

Ken

Bluecheck546 · Nov 17, 2004

Hi, if you want to paint aluminum sand it first with a 150 grit sand paper and then if it's possible submerge in vinegar (yes, it is vinegar). Let it sit for about 7 to 10 minutes the rinse toughly with water, dry and paint. It would be best to use a quality primer first, and then paint. In the aircraft industry where aluminum is used 90% of the time, and before being painted is acid etched by acidic chemical called "Alodine" The vinegar will do similar job. If you have a large area, you may lay flat, cover it with paper towels or cloth sheet, etc. Then soak thoroughly with vinegar. Hope this helps. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

Brad_Blazer · Nov 17, 2004

True-Test X-O rust # 1200 aluminum and galvanized primer is what I used to prime my OMC outdrive after some salt water got under the paint. Its still sticking after 10 years.
I got it at True Value hardware and it goes on clear blue. I still have most of the can left and used it this summer - it has a great shelf life!
/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

Brad

slydog · Nov 17, 2004

GREATTT!
I love this forum. Thanks guys for all the help!

Ken

alvanko · Nov 18, 2004

I worked a heavy truck repair facility for 27 years and have painted MANY sheets of .030 sheet aluminum. We would sand with 180 grit , wash with wax and grease remover and epoxy prime . I use (and swear by) PPG's DP90LF epoxy primer . NEVER had a peeling problem. Might I suggest you pick up some pre painted aluminum sheets from a trailer repair shop ? About $100 per sheet and I think 10' X 4' in size. They are most common in white but you could sand and paint any color you want from there as the will already be treated and pre-painted. The primer alone will cost you $100 .Laquor primer will not adhere to aluminum so keep that in mind what ever you choose .

slydog · Nov 19, 2004

( Might I suggest you pick up some pre painted aluminum sheets from a trailer repair shop ? About $100 per sheet and I think 10' X 4' in size.)

I am getting the unpainted aluminum for free. I had thought about using galvanized, and pickling and painting, but the guy who is supplying this stuff at no charge said he had the aluminum, but I'd have to buy a sheet of galvanized.

Ken

Glenn9643 · Nov 19, 2004

Thought about you yesterday Ken, while having lunch with the wife at Ray's PeeGee... It's still the same and the roast beef po-boy's are tops!

slydog · Nov 19, 2004

( Thought about you yesterday Ken, while having lunch with the wife at Ray's PeeGee... It's still the same and the roast beef po-boy's are tops! )

Ohhhh Man! Yes they are, aren't they! I am totally envious. My wife grew up in Charmindale and graduated from OPHS, so we come back to visit her family and friends ocassionally.