What kind of paint to paint those light-weight aluminium window grill?

Question

My existing light weight aluminum window grill is bronzy in colour and I want to paint it glossy white. I am looking through the nippon paint catalogue, would like to know what sort of paint can I get to paint it on my window grill? Not those metal stell grill, its those "hollowish" light weight aluminium quality grills.

My worries is whether can it be painted? cos Im afraid of the smoothness after i paint it when I try to slide it.

If you guys stil nto sure what kind of windows im talking about, do refer to the pics in the link attached bottom.

http://sriputramas.info/checklist/05/img/SecureGrill.jpg

Answer 1

Normally spray paint works best on metal. I don't think you could get a smooth finish with brush-on paint. If you use spray paint you will need to cover everything in the immediate area, including ceiling tiles and the floor.

A paint sprayer would be best, but is expensive. It can be done with cans but it will take a few and there are some safety concerns.

You will also need to ventilate the room, and protect your lungs with a mask that has canisters that absorb Hydrocarbon, and DO A LITTLE AT A TIME so you don't build up too much flammable hydrocarbon vapor in the room.

You can obtain hydrocarbon canisters at a typical home store like Home Depot or Lowe's.

You will need to follow the application directions on the can. Any paint will run if it is put on too thick. Don't expect to cover the black in one layer. Plan on at least 3 layers utilizing the timing shown on the can of spray paint.

That all being said, paint on metal can chip, and you may need to touch up from time to time if the window is utilized a lot.

Answer 2

Take a Scotch-brite pad (or any green scrubby) and sand the entire surface. Once the entires surface is done, wipe it down to remove the dust and let dry. Use a good metal paint and paint it. There is no need to prime aluminum. Be sure to let dry throughouly before reassembling the window.

I work in the aluminum industry and we actually have the parts powdercoated which makes the paint stick to aluminum the best. If you want, see if you can have this done locally.

Answer 3

Preparation before painting is the key.

You may need to sand and clean the aluminum so the paint will stay on.

Then you need a primer that sticks well to aluminum.

The final paint will probably be oil based if you want a true gloss finish.

Your local paint store should be able to help you.

Looks like alot of work!

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Answer 4

use spray paint they have all kinds for metel paint any finish / color you want ...check your local paint /hardware store