Can You Paint Aluminum Patio Covers?

Aluminum patio covers are a good way to make your yard look even better. Over time you may want to change the color of your patio cover. In this blog post we will look at what it would take to paint aluminum patio covers.

Short Answer To The Question Can You Paint Aluminum Patio Covers:

The answer is an emphatic yes. Since the paint can peel off of aluminum after a period of time, it is essential to repaint to improve its appearance and value. The significant aspect to consider here is the paint you’re using and the process of painting. This should help you get it right from the outset.

Learn: “How Long Do Patio Umbrellas Last? (Explained)“

What Are The Best Types Of Paints For Aluminum Patio Covers?

From the onset, it is imperative to take note that not all paints are good for aluminum patio covers. One of the important factors to consider when choosing the best paints for aluminum patio covers is the level of durability. In terms of durability, the best paints to choose are oil-based. Oil-based paints are known for their ability to last for a long time. This helps to eliminate the risk of peeling off too soon. Using oil-based paints helps you to save on costs because you won’t have to keep on painting after a short while.

Why Does Paint Peel Off Of Aluminum?

These are the common reasons why you’ll notice paint peeling off of aluminum:

Surface Pollution

Dirt or contamination prevents strong adhesion acquisition. The result is the peeling of paint off aluminum. Additionally, oil and grease contamination contributes to the damaging of water-based coatings, which leads to paint peeling off.

The Type of Coating

Using the wrong aluminum coating affects paint durability. It doesn’t stay in good shape for too long. If you happen to use a coating that’s not compatible with aluminum, a chemical reaction that weakens the adhesion bond takes place.

Temperature of the Surface

It’s imperative to check surface temperature as you apply the coating. Make sure the surface is not too hot. If it’s too, the paint’s solvent will be off sooner than it should. Eventually the paint will begin to peel off.

Surface’s Smoothness Level

The surface should not be too smooth. If it happens to be too smooth, it affects adhesion between it and the paint. Sanding has proven to be a feasible way of increasing the coating’s adhesion.

Age

The age of the paint can also contribute to its peeling off. If it has been in use for a long time, the adhesion bond begins to weaken. It is best to repaint at this point.

How to Avoid Paint from Peeling Off Of Your aluminum Patio Cover

In order to avoid paint from peeling off of your aluminum patio cover, you need to put the above-mentioned factors into consideration. For example, make sure as you apply paint the surface is clean. Also, make sure the coating is well-suited for aluminum.

Can You Paint Over an already painted Aluminum Patio Cover?

This is an important question to explore. Certainly, painting over painted aluminum patio cover can lead to peeling off. This is because both coatings may not produce a good result. For this reason, it is advisable to opt for cleaning the surface instead of painting. Here are the steps you can follow to accomplish this task.

Surface preparation

Surface preparation requires you to do thorough cleaning and remove contamination on the aluminum surface. Go ahead and fix the damaged surface. The most important thing is to do away with the old paint. Allow the surface to dry before going to the next step. As you clean the surface, you can use a power washer or shrubs. A power washer makes the process quicker and more effective. If the surface is big, it is advisable to use a power washer.

Sanding

The next step is sanding the surface with sandpaper. The process is important as it helps to make the surface rough. A rough surface comes in handy to promote adhesion. Thus, there is a strong bond between the paint and the aluminum surface.

Application of primer

A self-etching primer is ideal for this process. Apply and let the surface to dry up for a moment and then sand once more.

Application of multiple coats

Once you have applied the primer, go ahead and apply multiple coat layers of paint. Take note that it’s necessary to sand between the coats to increase the levels of adhesion. However, sanding isn’t required at all times. If there’s need for sanding, go ahead and do it.

Application of an enamel eraser

Applying an enamel eraser goes a long way to improve the quality of painting and the durability level.

Things You Should Do Before You Paint Aluminum Patio Furniture

There are steps you should be keen to follow before you paint aluminum patio furniture.

The first thing to do is to shift the furniture to a safe place where the paint falling off won’t damage the surrounding areas. If this isn’t possible, you can opt to cover the ground and then place the furniture on top of the material.

Next, wash the aluminum to remove any debris or contamination that may make it difficult for you to do a quality paint application. The surface should be smooth enough to give you a good painting experience.

Once you have washed the aluminum furniture well, the next step is to do the painting. You can use brush or spray paint. If you’re painting small aluminum patio furniture, the best option is spray paint. On the other hand, if you’re painting large aluminum furniture, the best option is brush paint.

Conclusion:

It is certain that painting your aluminum patio covers is an essential process. It is what you need to do to maintain a quality value of your aluminum patio covers. As long as you do it right you’ll be able to get quality results.

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