As warmer weather settles in for the season, you might consider tackling the home improvement projects you’ve put off for a while. Exterior painting projects are especially popular at this time of year. If you have a steel building on your property and want to give it a makeover, here are several tips to make your painting goals a reality.

How to Paint Your Steel Building

1. Check for Damage

Steel is susceptible to developing rust, which can take away from the aesthetic appeal of the building. More importantly, it can have an effect on its structural integrity. Rust eats away at the material, leaving behind holes and openings that could lead to moisture damage and other issues. Before painting, resolve any corrosive concerns by sanding and smoothing the affected areas. You may need to sandblast sections with more widespread rust formation. 

2. Cover Openings

Any openings on your steel building, like doorways and windows, should be covered with plastic to prevent paint from spilling or splattering on them. You can also use a masking film, but you’ll need to know the precise size of the openings to get the best possible fit. Apply tape around the edges of the sheets for greater precision.

3. Clean the Surface

Before you apply paint to the surface, it must be thoroughly cleaned and prepared to accept the paint. If there’s any grease, dirt, or grime buildup, it will prevent the paint from adhering smoothly. This will take away from the pristine finish you want to achieve. 

After ensuring that there’s no damage present, use a pressure washer on a low setting to eliminate any debris accumulation. You may need to use a wire brush to scrape away more stubborn messes.

4. Paint the Steel

Apply a metal primer first. This is an essential step because it bonds to the surface, creating an even canvas for the paint. Many formulas are also designed to protect the surface from developing rust in the future, serving as a preventative that ensures the paint looks its best.

If you need a reliable paint supplier for your steel building project, turn to Pipe Plus Inc. This company has been proudly serving clients throughout Willow Springs, MO, and the surrounding states, including Arkansas, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Iowa, Texas, and Kansas, since 1997. They carry an extensive range of products for residential and commercial purposes. Whether you need steel pipes, welding supplies, or grain and feed bins, they can help. Call (417) 469-5292 to speak with a representative and learn more.