How do I get paint to stick to a galvanized steel bench?

I have painted some in the past. What they told me when I went for paint, is that it's the zinc that reacts with the paint. Wipe it down with vinegar. Don't rinse. When I did, I had to use primer and then paint it. I recently came across this spray paint that can be used for galvanized metal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01I5NWRWC/ref=twister_B01I5NWA2O?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Shouldn’t be a problem. I modified an old boat trailer into a utility trailer about 7-8 years ago. I painted it with spray paint before I put the wood on the deck, and the paint is still pristine. I didn’t do anything to prep the trailer before painting.

There are paints formulated for metal...check to see what’s been stocked at the diy store. Some are in spray cans as well. You generally want a clean surface to paint on. Possibly prime it before painting it.

Rustoleum metal primer.

Rustoleum and other paint companies have spray paint with primer in it for metal.

According to Sherwin Williams, “Most acrylic coatings will adhere directly to clean galvanized metal.” You may need to sand off the light rust on the surface, then clean the metal with a stiff brush. Then paint, by roller, brush or spray. Dana, this bench is ready for a new life! Be sure to post your project on Hometalk! ☺️

Did you do this project? I’m wondering the same on some school picnic tables I volunteered to clean up. I’m afraid if I spray paint the legs, next year they’ll all be peeling apart! I thought I’d try a small patch and probably know pretty quickly if it will work or not. Let me know tho-Thanks!

LIGHTLY sand and wipe clean. There are a lot of brands of metal paint. I have recently uses the Rustoleum 2X spray paint with good results. It has great coverage. Ask at the paint counter which paints are made specifically for metal. Add a coat or two of poly to protect the finish after paint has thoroughly dried.

Hello. There are several varieties of primers out there that might help your paint adhere better.

Also they are paint and primer spray paint formulations in one.

Proper cleaning and prep is necessary before beginning for paint to adhere well and last. Hope this helps.

if you sand it lightly paint will stick for sure

HELLO THERE,

Use a Metal Primer and Metal paint, or use Rust Oleum!

You can spray paint the bench