How to Paint a Metal Railing

To properly paint a metal railing, you will want to keep a few tips in mind. Firstly, consider whether the railing old or new. If it is an older railing, you may encounter some surface rust, especially if the railing has been stored or installed outside. If the railing is an interior railing, it will obviously be less weathered and will not require extensive preparation work.

Step 1 – Preparing the Metal Surface

Some older paints can be lead-based and wearing a dust mask will prevent related dangerous dust particles from getting into your lungs. To prepare the surface, take the wire brush and clear the metal railing of any surface rust. Make sure that the rougher areas are prepared enough to bring the affected surface to the same level as the undamaged parts of the railing.

Rust has a tendency to make old paint bubble. Use a grinding sander to smooth down the excess rust beneath painted areas. Once the surface has been cleared, use a medium grade sanding sponge or sandpaper to smooth the metal and clear off any old paint. Mask off any areas that you do not want painted.

Step 2 – Preparing to Paint

Take the tack rag and wipe down the railings. The rag is slightly sticky and any remnants of dust will adhere to it as you wipe. It will leave your railing surface clean and free of any debris. The metal railing is now ready for you to prime and paint.

Step 3 – Priming

You will need to prime your surface first and the best suggestion is to use a rust inhibiting primer. Shake the primer can for about 30 seconds.  Spraying the railing is normally preferable as it will leave no brush marks and will cover the area more effectively

Spray the paint in a motion that follows the line of railing, keep the spray paint nozzle approximately 6 inches from the surface. Getting too close will cause the primer to drip. Keep your rhythm consistent until the surface is completely covered with primer. You can use a paintbrush on any areas where the rust was particularly harsh or to ensure that the primer gets in to every part of the metal railing. Leave the primer dry thoroughly. 

Step 4 – Painting

When the primer is dry, wipe down the metal railing with the tack rag. Take the wet/dry fine grade sandpaper and wet it in a bucket of water. Give the primed railing a very light rub down. Don’t be too heavy handed; you don’t want to sand off the primer. All you need to do here is very slightly roughen the surface so that the enamel paint will have a good surface to cling to.

Shake enamel paint can for about 30 seconds and apply the color in the same way as you applied the primer. Once you have completed the first coat, leave to dry thoroughly. It is always advisable to apply two coats for extra protection and coverage. Once the first coat is thoroughly dry, use the wet/dry paper again to provide a freshly keyed area for the second coat of enamel paint and use the tack rag to clean any excess dust off. The second coat can now be applied to complete the task.