Good paint characteristics; painting galvanized iron

Characteristics of a good paint

1. Easy to apply and spreads uniformly with good covering power (opacity).
2. Dries in a reasonable time to a hard, tough, smooth, elastic film.
3. The film adheres well and does not crack, peel or blister.
4. Good colour and gloss that do not fade.
5. Resistant to weather, water, chemicals and heat.
6. Non-toxic, with a pleasant smell, and cheap.

Painting galvanized iron

Fresh zinc coating is smooth and oily, so paint does not stick to it directly.

1. Clean the surface: remove grease and dirt with a solvent (mineral spirit) and scrub off any white rust.
2. Etch the surface: wash with a mild acid solution, such as dilute acetic acid/vinegar or a copper chloride mordant, so that the surface becomes rough. Alternatively let it weather for several months. Rinse and dry.
3. Apply a primer coat of zinc chromate or an etching primer (red lead should not be used).
4. After drying, apply two coats of oil paint or enamel as the finishing coat, with drying time between coats.