How to Fix Peeling Paint on Metal

Causes

If you are wondering what causes peeling paint on metal, the most common reasons include:

• Inadequate or improper surface preparation: Failure to clean and prepare metal surfaces before painting is the leading cause of peeling paint on metal items.
• Missing primer application: Not using a metal primer, such as ENDURAPRIME®, before applying an oil-based or vinyl water-based paint to galvanized metal can reduce adhesion.
• Surface incompatibility: Attempting to paint directly over baked-on enamel finishes or glossy surfaces without proper sanding creates adhesion problems.
• Moisture exposure: Metal surfaces exposed to high humidity, rain, or condensation are likelier to experience paint peeling and metal flaking.
• Temperature fluctuations: Extreme temperature changes cause metal to expand and contract, stressing the paint bond and leading to peeling.

How to Fix Peeling Paint on Metal

When dealing with paint peeling off a metal door or addressing spray paint peeling off metal objects, the repair process follows these essential steps:

1. Remove Loose Paint

• Scrape away all loose, peeling paint down to the bare metal using a paint scraper or wire brush.
• For stubborn areas, use a heat gun on a low setting to soften the paint before scraping (maintain a safe distance to avoid overheating).

2. Clean and Prepare the Surface

• Clean the exposed metal thoroughly to remove contaminants like dirt, grease, and oil.
• For galvanized metal, treat with a metal etching liquid to improve paint adhesion. Be sure to wear long sleeves and gloves to protect your arms and hands during this process.
• For other metal surfaces, use a metal cleaner or degreaser designed for the specific type of metal.
• Rinse the surface with clean water and allow it to dry completely.

3. Prime the Surface

• Apply a high-quality Dunn-Edwards metal primer specifically formulated for your type of metal.
• For galvanized metal, use a galvanized metal primer designed to bond with this challenging surface.
• Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. Repaint the Surface

• Once the primer is dry, apply a high-quality Dunn-Edwards exterior paint designed for metal surfaces.
• For best results, apply two thin coats rather than one thick coat.
• Allow adequate drying time between coats.

How to Keep Paint from Peeling Off Metal

Preventing paint from peeling off metal surfaces saves time and money in the long run. Check out our painting how-to guides for more expert painting tips.

• Choose the right paint system: Use paints and primers specifically formulated for the type of metal you’re painting.
• Maintain proper temperature: Paint metal surfaces when temperatures are between 50-85°F (10-29°C) for optimal adhesion.
• Address moisture issues: Fix any drainage or moisture problems that might affect the metal surface.
• Conduct regular inspections: Check metal surfaces annually for signs of paint failure and address issues early.
• Clean painted surfaces: Periodically clean painted metal to remove dirt and contaminants that can deteriorate paint over time.

Special Considerations for Different Metal Surfaces

How to Paint a Metal Door That Is Peeling

Metal doors often experience paint peeling due to frequent use and exposure. For best results:

• Remove the door from its hinges when possible.
• Before the sanding step, the surfaces must be cleaned to remove any oil, grease, dirt, rust, loose coating, or other surface contaminants.
• Apply Dunn-Edwards ENDURAPRIME® for superior adhesion and durability.

How to Paint a Metal Garage Door That Is Peeling

Garage doors have large, flat surfaces that show imperfections easily:

• Clean the entire door thoroughly before beginning repairs.
• Use a paint roller for large areas and a brush for detailing.
• Consider a semi-gloss or satin finish for easier maintenance.

Product Recommendations

Primer

Desired Finish
Recommended Primer

Non-Ferrous Metal
ULTRA-GRIP® Premium Interior/Exterior Multi-Surface Primer

Exterior

Surface
Recommended Product

Flat
EVERSHIELD® Exterior 100% Acrylic Flat Paint

Velvet
EVERSHIELD® Exterior 100% Acrylic Velvet Paint

Eggshell
EVERSHIELD® Exterior 100% Acrylic Eggshell Paint

Satin/Low Sheen
EVERSHIELD® Exterior 100% Acrylic Satin/Low Sheen Paint

Semi-Gloss
EVERSHIELD® Exterior 100% Acrylic Semi-Gloss Paint

Gloss
EVERSHIELD® Exterior 100% Acrylic Gloss Paint

Professional Solutions for Commercial Metal Surfaces

Professional-grade solutions may be required for commercial buildings with extensive metal flaking or peeling issues. Dunn-Edwards offers commercial-grade primers and paints designed specifically for industrial metal applications.

Visit our Paint Problem Solver section for more solutions to common painting challenges, or contact a Dunn-Edwards professional for personalized advice on your specific metal painting project.