How to Paint a Metal Awning

Old metal awnings can look shabby and detract from the value of your home. Peeling or bubbling paint and rust spots can cause your awning to deteriorate. Rust can run down the sides of your home, damaging your exterior even further. A little cleaning, sanding and masking will save you a lot of grief later. Spray paint is cheap and easy to apply. Clear coat over color will ensure a longer-lasting finish.

Instructions

1

Sand any rough, rusty, flaking or bubbled areas on the awning using 80-grit emery cloth until the metal is smooth and shiny. Wash the entire awning with a solution of 25 percent distilled white vinegar and water. Rinse with clean water, and allow the awning to dry.

2

Use wide painter's tape and brown paper or plastic sheeting to mask any area around the awning that you do not want painted. Any stray breeze can cause spray paint to drift and spatter onto the rest of the house, or your window.

3

Shake the can of spray paint vigorously until you hear a clacking sound. Continue to shake for at least three minutes, making sure the mixing ball inside the can continues to clack. Spray one or two test shots onto a piece of cardboard to ensure that you have mixed the paint thoroughly. If only air comes out, or if the paint bubbles, shake the can for three more minutes.

4

Hold can 12 to 15 inches from the awning. Use long, even strokes to make thin coats of paint. Allow the paint to dry between coats. Apply two or three coats of clear acrylic after the paint has dried. This ensures that your awning will maintain its shiny new finish longer. It is better to make thin, even coats than to start fighting runs from spraying the paint on too heavily.

5

Remove all masking after the final coat of paint has dried for at least half an hour. Use a piece of fine sandpaper to remove any missed over spray. Rub very gently to avoid removing underlying house paint.