Painting Galvanized Metal

What is the proper preparation for galvanized metal, before painting ??

I have heard of some type of an etching method but have no idea what is involved.

Thanks for any input,

Jim

I have used vinager with good results.

Joe

Thanks for the post.

How does one use vinegar ?? What is the process for using it ??

Jim Vancouver, Washington USA

"Metl-Prep" is another commercial product that uses phosphoric acid that works well.

Usual instructions are to wipe the area with a clean cloth soaked in the liquid, and then rinse with water.

Alternately, instead of rinsing, I have had good luck with just wiping the surface dry.

Thanks, John

I will give it a try.

Jim

[Harry]

My procedure is to glass bead blast galvanized items prior to painting. I suppose this is similar to etching, but it works excellently for me. Galvanized iron pipe is the main application. With tin work, of course, it only needs a light low pressure blast and keep your distance with the nozzle.

Metal-prep might remove the zinc - be careful.

Phosphoric acid based metal preps will definitely disolve some of the zink! Parkerizing solution is Phosphoric acid based with disolved zink and magnesium.

I use a self etching wash primer such as trio prime. These can be purchased at NAPA. they use a special reducer . Expect about $50 a quart. Worth it and your galvanized surface stays intact. as a added noted i hit my topcoat before the primer fully dries. also you have to topcoat within 24 hours.

ED

Rustoleum used to make a product called "Galvenoleum". It was a primer especially for zinc (galvanized) metal and worked well when I used it.