Can I paint aluminum?

[stang]

I have a large aluminum picture frame I want to paint black.
Is this do-able?

 

[The Lurker]

??? Try Home Depot. Not these folks!

 

[luv4lust]

http://www.finishing.com/1200-1399/1318.shtml

http://www.finishing.com/1200-1399/1345.shtml

 

[The Lurker]

Okay then. She's not a technically a guy.

 

[luv4lust]

Okay then. She's not a technically a guy.

lol remember that thing lol

 

[goalie000]

Painting Aluminum requires a special primer first.

 

[robert99]

If this frame is indoors you'll be fine; but traditionally aluminum is difficult to paint. A light sanding with 200 grit paper followed by an epoxy primer and your colour of choice should suffice.

 

[biog]

Yes.

You can paint aluminum. Just depends on the amount of work you want to put into it. The number one concern is surface prep. Aluminum gets chalky. If you decide to wash it with an aluminum cleaner, be careful what else you get it on because it can etch other surfaces (like glass) if not promptly removed. Wipe the surface down with a mild TSP solution, then prime and topcoat. You're not painting the Sistine Chapel, so I wouldn't get all caught up in "text book" techniques, your results will be fine.

 

[torex]

If this frame is indoors you'll be fine; but traditionally aluminum is difficult to paint. A light sanding with 200 grit paper followed by an epoxy primer and your colour of choice should suffice.

you must prime it...and make sure you use an epoxy primer as robert99 suggests.

you can always get it powder coated if you feel really adventurous....to powder coat a frame depending on color should only cost $30-$50

 

[stang]

Thanks all.

 

[doinker]

you can alodine or anodize it for about $50.00 and it looks better than paint and lasts longer