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Steel Window Frames
Metal window frames have to close much tighter than wooden ones to achieve a good seal. Too many coats of paint can prevent the windows from closing properly and this can create problems. It is therefore recommended that all old paint is removed before you do any repainting. Stripping back to the bare steel window frame will also enable you to expose any hidden rust spots.
I`ve always found chemical stripping the best method for metal window frames. Most proprietary brands of paint stripper have very good instructions for their use however a general guide is as follows:
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Apply the stripper with an old paint brush to the surface of the paint. |
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The chemicals start to react after about 10 minutes (depending on the brand) and the paint surface will wrinkle. |
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Using a flat blade scraper remove the softened paint. |
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It may be necessary to repeat the process depending on the thickness of the paint.t |
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Use a small wire brush to get into all the nooks and crannies. |
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Clean down the whole frame and all traces of the stripping chemical. Follow the manufacturers instructions for this process. The most important thing is to get rid of all the chemical before repainting. |
Once the surface is dry, check for any traces of rust or corrosion. If rust is found it must be treated. In areas of light rust, sand down the surface a little. Use a rust converting chemical in areas of heavier rust. Once you are satisfied that the metal is sound and rust free, apply a coat of chromate primer followed by an undercoat and finally your top coat.
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Metal Guttering
Like all metal surfaces, outdoor guttering needs to be carefully prepared before painting. Clean the complete surface properly with a metal cleaning preparation (available from the paint department of your local store). If the metal is galvanised steel then prime with a galvanised iron primer after cleaning. Follow with an undercoat plus a couple of thin coats of top coat.
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Fixtures
After repainting the exterior of your home it is very annoying to discover rust bleeding though your new paint. This is caused by not treating exposed metal before painting. When doing your preparation to paint the exterior make sure that you check any metal fixtures including nails. Take your time and sand off corrosion, then touch up with zinc primer paint. In the case of nails that have worked their way to the surface and are showing signs of rust, clean off the rust and then punch them below the surface, prime, stop up the hole and paint.
Other fixtures such as flashings, hinges, brackets etc must be treated before painting. Remove light rust by sanding and then paint with zinc primer. For heavy rust treat the area with a rust converter and then prime, undercoat and top coat.
Always check metal fittings for structural damage and replace them if there is any doubt that they are not strong enough to do the job they are made for.
Written by Chris Bennett
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Limitation of Liability
This project has been produced to provide basic information and our experienced staff are available either in-store, or via phone or email, to answer any questions you may have. As this information is generalised Mitre 10 is not responsible for the application of the principles in any particular case, as the contents of this project may need to be modified for the particular site and circumstances. Consumers should always ensure that they comply with any local body bylaws that pertain to any construction project and consult a qualified tradesperson where expert services are required. |
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