No type of paint will stick to bare aluminum unless it is properly abraded.
Unlike wood, aluminum is slick and non-porous, making it a poor surface for paint adhesion. If you apply any kind of paint to a bare aluminum surface, you will see significant peeling and chipping over time. Many people are surprised to learn that there is no particular paint suited to coating aluminum. In reality, any paint will stick to aluminum as long as you use the proper base coat to abrade the aluminum to encourage adhesion.
Preparation
No matter what kind of paint or primer you use on aluminum, it won't adhere if you haven't thoroughly cleaned the surface. Scrape away any dirt using a metal putty knife. Wash the surface using a water-based degreaser and a coarse plastic scrub brush. Rinse away all slick residue that may interfere with paint adhesion.
Abrasion
Before any paint will adhere to aluminum, it must be abraded. You can abrade wood, vinyl and plastic surfaces by scouring them with sandpaper. However, aluminum is too durable for friction techniques. Instead, you must apply an etching primer to the surface before you paint. Allow the primer to cure for at least four hours before you apply paint.
Paint
After you have abraded the aluminum with an etching primer, you can apply most any type of paint. Use a latex paint if the aluminum is located outside as this type of paint will move with the aluminum as it expands and contracts in varying weather. If the aluminum is located indoors, and you prefer a glossy appearance, you may use an oil-based enamel.
Rust
If you notice rust on your aluminum surface, you must remove and seal it before you apply any paint pr primer. Scrub away the rust using a wire brush and sandpaper. Then, coat the rust with a spray can of rust sealer.
Warnings
Some paints claim to be specialized for coating aluminum. However, even these types of paints won't hold up over time unless they are applied over an etching primer. No type of paint will stick to bare aluminum unless it is properly abraded. Also, don't use a bonding primer in place of an etching primer or the finish will flake and peel.
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